In a historic declaration, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has officially recognised April 14, 2025, as “Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Day,” marking the 134th birth anniversary of India’s Constitution architect and one of the world’s most respected human rights advocates. The proclamation honours Dr. Ambedkar’s unwavering commitment to democracy, gender equity, and social justice. Mayor Adams remarked, “Dr. Ambedkar stood for the rights of farmers, tenants, and the marginalized. His powerful message to ‘educate, agitate, organise’ resonates deeply with New York’s values of inclusivity and diversity.”
Dr. Ambedkar, a Columbia University alumnus, drew inspiration from his time in New York—shaping the principles that would guide his work for India’s liberation from caste discrimination. His global recognition continues to grow, with April 14 now observed in over 100 countries through parliaments, academic forums, and UN platforms.
Helen Clark, former head of UNDP, once emphasized that Ambedkar’s perspectives on inequality continue to be essential in shaping today’s global development agenda. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed echoed this, noting his enduring influence on global equality efforts.
Deelip Mhaske, President of the Foundation for Human Horizon, spearheaded this movement with a decade of dedicated efforts that ultimately resulted in the proclamation. With backing from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mhaske pioneered Ambedkar’s first UN celebration in 2016 and initiated the naming of “Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Way” in Manhattan in 2023.
“This goes beyond symbolism,” said Mhaske. “It reinforces New York’s role as a global leader in human rights.” He also commended Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan for his pivotal role in bringing this vision to life.
World leaders also expressed their admiration. Indian Minister Ramdas Athawale called Ambedkar “India’s future from Columbia.” Entrepreneur Ashu Singh praised his universal appeal, while scholar Akansha Anand highlighted his merit-based vision of justice. Psychotherapist Snehal Ukey pointed out how Ambedkar’s revival of Buddhism catalysed global liberation movements.
As inequality persists worldwide, Ambedkar’s voice grows louder—reminding humanity that legal freedom means little without true social equality. With NYC joining the international chorus, the flame of Dr. Ambedkar’s mission burns brighter than ever.
