In a historic move, the Chief Minister of Telangana, K. Chandrashekar Rao, recently unveiled a 125-foot statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in Hyderabad. This statue is now the tallest statue of the social reformer and Dalit icon in the world. The move has been widely praised by Dalit intellectuals and activists across the country.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, also known as Babasaheb, was a social reformer, jurist, economist, and politician who played a significant role in the Indian independence movement. He is also known as the father of the Indian Constitution and is considered to be one of the most important figures in Indian history.
Dalits, who were formerly known as untouchables, have historically faced discrimination and oppression in India. Dr. Ambedkar, who himself belonged to the Dalit community, fought tirelessly for their rights and worked towards their upliftment. He was a strong advocate of social justice and equality and his teachings continue to inspire generations of Dalits.
The erecting of a 125-foot statue of Dr. Ambedkar in Hyderabad is seen as a significant step towards recognizing his contributions and legacy. The statue is located at Tank Bund Road in Hyderabad and is expected to become a major tourist attraction.
Dalit intellectuals have praised KCR for his efforts in erecting the statue. They see it as a symbol of the Telangana government’s commitment to social justice and equality. Many have also noted that the move is particularly significant given the current political climate in India, where there have been increasing incidents of violence against Dalits.
The statue has also sparked debates around the role of statues in public spaces. Some have argued that statues should not be used as symbols of political power or propaganda. Others have pointed out that statues can serve as reminders of important historical figures and their contributions to society.
Regardless of these debates, the erecting of the statue of Dr. Ambedkar in Hyderabad is a significant moment for Dalits and for India as a whole. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles for social justice and equality and the importance of recognizing the contributions of those who have fought for these ideals.
