Republic Day 2024: Deekshabhoomi, Where Ambedkar Embraced Buddhism

Deekshabhoomi is one of Nagpur's most iconic landmarks and a significant site of Buddhism. This sacred monument is famous for being the place where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, converted to Buddhism along with thousands of his followers in 1956. Ambedkar's ashes lie in the stupa at Deekshabhoomi, attracting thousands of devotees every year to pay their respects.

The History

Ambedkar announced in 1935 that, despite being born a Hindu, he would not die as one, because conversion was the only way to end the caste system prevalent under Hinduism. Following this pronouncement, he conducted significant research into the doctrines of all major religions before deciding on Buddhism for himself and his followers.

On October 14, 1956, Ambedkar and his wife took the oath of Three Jewels and Five Precepts from the Burmese monk Mahasthavir Chandramani at Kushinagar. Ambedkar then administered the oath of Three Jewels, Five Precepts, and 22 Vows to his thousands of followers. Ambedkar died on December 6, 1956, a month and a half after the Deeksha ceremony. Following his death, a stupa was constructed as a memorial.

The Stupa

The stupa here is an architectural marvel and attracts Buddhists and history enthusiasts from all over the world. Built by architect Sheo Dan Mal, it has a hollow globe-like structure with a diameter of 120 square feet. The stupa is supported by expanding levels of columns. The ground floor covers more than 20,000 square feet and is used for prayer. The stupa has four gates, each with figures of Dhammachakra, horses, elephants, and lions carved in Rajasthani marble, similar to the stupa in Sanchi. At the main entrance, there is a bookstall.

The Area

On the eastern side of the area, there is a Bodhi Tree, Bhikkhu Niwasa, a marble column with 22 vows, and the Preamble to the Indian Constitution. The land also houses the Dr. Ambedkar Sports Academy, Dr. Ambedkar Law College, and the Dr. Ambedkar Institute of Management Studies and Research, as well as public facilities. Dr. Ambedkar College is located to the north of Deekshabhoomi and is operated by the Samiti. It is a multi-faculty educational institution that provides Arts, Commerce, and Science streams.

Ambedkar's Ashes

A glass structure on a marble square has a silver jar in which Ambedkar's mortal remains are stored. The vessel was originally kept with the People's Education Society in Mumbai. Besides that, there are two statues of Lord Buddha.

The Bodhi Tree

In the eastern area sits a gigantic Bodhi Tree whose widest branches are supported by iron bars. It tells an interesting narrative. Three branches from the Bodhi Tree at Anuradhapura (Sri Lanka) were carried to Deekshabhoomi. The saplings were obtained from the same Bodhi Tree that Sanghamitra, daughter of the Great Emperor Asoka, planted during her monkhood. The Bodhi Tree in Sri Lanka was originally a sapling of the Bodhivriksha, under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. The saplings were planted during a ceremony on May 12, 1968 (Vaishakh Bouddha Pournima). The current Bodhi Tree at Deekshabhoomi is a mix of these three saplings, which now appear as one.

Dhammachakkra Pravartan Din

Deekshabhoomi's Smarak Samiti organises a number of events, including the Dhammachakkra Pravartan Din each October. Visitors travel from across the country and around the world to pay their respects. The Samiti is largely responsible for organising the event, but local city authorities also provide support. The number of book stalls set up by local and national publishers is one of the highlights at the event.

Places To See Nearby

Karpur Baoli

The Karpur Baoli is a 12th-century stepwell in the temple complex of Ramtek in Nagpur, Maharashtra. Stepwells such as this were a common feature in the architectural design of many historical monuments. These served as water reservoirs for irrigation and general consumption. Locals say the water level in this 1,200-year-old tank never goes down. The building is presently crumbling, and the location is relatively unknown making this a hidden treasure near Nagpur.

Sevagram Ashram

Sevagram Ashram is an ancient ashram located roughly 70 km from Ramtek. Mahatma Gandhi established the ashram in 1936 as the focal point of the Indian independence struggle. Visitors can tour the ashram and learn about the history of the Indian freedom movement.

Ramtek Fort

Ramtek Fort is a medieval fort situated on a hilltop in Ramtek. The fort was constructed in the 18th century and served as a crucial site during the rule of the Nagardhan dynasty. Visitors may explore the fort and take in the surrounding scenery.

The Information

Address:  S Ambazari Rd, Abhyankar Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra 440020

Timings: 7 am-8 pm

Phone: 0712-3298042, 8055446083

More information here.

Getting There

Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (NAG) is the city's primary airport, connecting Nagpur to major domestic and a few international destinations. Nagpur is a pivotal railway junction for rail travellers, facilitating convenient train access from various parts of India. Road networks are well-established, with national highways linking Nagpur to neighbouring cities and states, making road trips and bus travel convenient options.