Mahaparinirvan Diwas is a solemn occasion observed annually on December 6 to commemorate the death anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a crusader for social justice. The term "Mahaparinirvan" is derived from Buddhist terminology, signifying the ultimate state of liberation or nirvana after death, which Dr. Ambedkar embraced as a follower of Buddhism.
On this day, millions of people, especially from the Dalit community, honor his legacy and contributions to India's socio-political and economic framework.
Where is Mahaparinirvan Diwas Celebrated? The day is primarily observed in Maharashtra, with the most notable gathering taking place at Chaityabhoomi, located in Shivaji Park, Mumbai. Chaityabhoomi is the cremation site of Dr. Ambedkar and holds immense significance for his followers.
Apart from Maharashtra, Mahaparinirvan Diwas is also marked in other parts of India, particularly in regions with a significant Ambedkarite or Buddhist population. Events such as prayer meetings, cultural programs, and discussions about Dr. Ambedkar's life and work are organized to pay tribute to his enduring legacy.
Mahaparinirvan Diwas 2024: What’s Open and Closed in Maharashtra on December 6 Mahaparinirvan Diwas, observed on December 6 each year, honors the memory of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar on his death anniversary. This year marks the 68th anniversary of the passing of the architect of India’s Constitution.
What Will Be Closed? The Maharashtra government has declared a local holiday for state and semi-government offices in Mumbai and its suburbs. A public holiday has also been announced for government and non-government institutions in the region, ensuring they remain closed on this solemn day. This decision makes Mahaparinirvan Diwas the third local holiday in Maharashtra after Dahi Handi and Ganesh Visarjan.
Paying Homage at Chaityabhoomi On December 6, thousands of people are expected to visit Chaityabhoomi in Shivaji Park, where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was cremated, to pay tribute. The site is located less than 2 kilometers from Dadar station and serves as a significant venue for commemorations.
Special Train Arrangements To accommodate the influx of visitors, Central Railway has introduced several measures:
Additional Suburban Trains: On the nights of December 5 and 6, 12 additional suburban trains will operate—six on the main line and six on the harbor line. Crowd Management: A holding area between Central and Western Railway lines has been prepared to accommodate up to 8,000 people. Separate entry and exit points at Dadar station will help streamline crowd movement. Special Announcements: Frequent announcements about train schedules and services are being made at stations, supported by signage displaying train timings and numbers. Ticket Checks and Security: Special ticket-checking squads, Railway Protection Force (RPF), and Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel are deployed to ensure smooth operations. Only bonafide passengers will be allowed entry into reserved coaches. Platform Ticket RestrictionsUntil December 9, platform tickets at major stations, including CSMT, Dadar, Thane, and Kalyan, will only be issued to select groups, such as senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
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