Lucknow, May 7: Under the leadership of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a significant monument is taking shape in Lucknow. This structure is not merely a physical edifice but aims to become a vibrant center for social justice, the Constitution, and the ideals of Baba Saheb Ambedkar. The Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial and Cultural Center is currently under construction in the Aishbagh area and is expected to be completed by July 2026. Dr. Lalji Prasad Nirmal, president of the Ambedkar Mahasabha Trust, stated that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is fulfilling the dreams of Dr. Ambedkar’s wife, Savita Ambedkar.
The memorial is being built on approximately 2.5 acres of land in front of the Eidgah in Aishbagh, Lucknow. Initially estimated to cost ₹45.04 crores, the current cost has risen to between ₹81 crores and ₹100 crores due to additional works, including the auditorium, finishing touches, and external development.
The project has received land allocation and budget approval in two phases. While most of the construction is nearly complete, the state-of-the-art auditorium with a seating capacity of 500 is in its final stages. The foundation stone was laid on June 29, 2021, by then-President Ram Nath Kovind. The Ambedkar Mahasabha and followers of Baba Saheb have long demanded this memorial.
Dr. Nirmal explained that the memorial’s background is rooted in the Ambedkar Mahasabha, which has housed Dr. Ambedkar’s ashes since 1991, established by his wife, Mai Saheb Savita Ambedkar. She had expressed her wish for a grand memorial to be built over Baba Saheb’s ashes, complete with a library and museum. Dr. Nirmal mentioned that he had urged various governments and chief ministers for years to realize this dream, which was finally approved by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Dr. Nirmal noted that not only did Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath approve the project, but he also prioritized its rapid advancement. He emphasized that the Chief Minister has made Savita Ambedkar’s dreams a reality, and the Ambedkar Mahasabha expresses gratitude towards the Yogi government.
The memorial complex will feature a grand 25-foot bronze statue of Dr. Ambedkar. Additionally, there will be a three-story administrative building, a modern museum, and a photo gallery showcasing Dr. Ambedkar’s life, struggles, and contributions to the Constitution. A vast library and research center are also being established. Notably, a research center dedicated to Dr. Ambedkar will be set up, offering PhD-level research facilities in collaboration with Ambedkar University. Accommodation and dining facilities for researchers will also be available on-site.
The Yogi government is also incorporating modern technology into the memorial. Plans include audio-visual presentations, virtual reality shows, and digital mediums to convey Baba Saheb’s thoughts to the younger generation. Importantly, Dr. Ambedkar’s ashes, preserved by the Ambedkar Mahasabha, will be respectfully enshrined here. A Vipassana meditation center is also being created, aiming to make the complex a hub for social consciousness and spiritual peace. The site will also feature a basement, substation, pump room, internal roads, drainage, landscaping, boundary wall, and an attractive entrance.
Dr. Lalji Nirmal elaborated on his struggle to establish the Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial and Cultural Center. He recounted that on January 22, 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to visit the Ambedkar Mahasabha in Lucknow to pay respects to Baba Saheb’s ashes. Just two days prior, then-Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav had held a press conference with Dr. Nirmal to announce the allocation of five acres of land in CG City, Lucknow, for the memorial. However, Akhilesh later reneged on his promise, and the documentation went missing. After the government changed in 2017, Dr. Nirmal approached Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath with the request to establish the memorial, which was accepted.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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