Dhammachakra Pravartan Din is a significant annual event in India. On October 14, 1956, the architect of the Indian constitution, Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar along with other followers embraced Buddhism after renouncing Hinduism at Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur, Maharashtra.

While Dhammachakra Pravartan Din and Dussehra are two different festivals, they are often celebrated together. This is because Dr Ambedkar chose to convert to Buddhism on Dussehra, which is a day that symbolizes victory over oppression and injustice. This year, it will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 24.

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This Buddhist celebration stands as a testament to the monumental decision, when Dr. Ambedkar, along with an impressive assembly of around 365,000 fervent followers accepted the teachings of Buddhism. This conversion not only reshaped his own spiritual journey but also strengthened the Dalit movement in India.

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Dr. BR Ambedkar embraced Buddhism on Vijayadashami October 14, 1956. Dhammachakra, or Wheel of the Law, is a symbol of Buddhism that represents the teachings of the Buddha. By celebrating Dhammachakra Pravartan Din on Dussehra, Ambedkarite Buddhists are also celebrating the spread of the Buddhas teachings and the values that they represent.

Dr Ambedkar had decided to leave Hinduism early on and studied other religions to understand which one would suit him better, and finally chose Buddhism. He chose a morally sound religion. Dr. Ambedkar had made 22 pledges on the day when he renounced Hinduism.

The conversion of Dr Ambedkar from Hinduism to Buddhism was a well-considered choice. Driven by a desire to escape the clutches of the oppressive caste system deeply entrenched in Hinduism then, he decided to convert his religion. This bold step symbolised his quest for a liberated voice, free from the constraints imposed by the four-fold varna system within Hinduism.

Dhammachakra Pravartan Din, a day of great historical significance, draws multitudes of Buddhists and admirers to the sacred grounds of Deekshabhoomi annually to commemorate this mass conversion to Buddhism. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Dr BR Ambedkar and the transformative impact of his spiritual journey.

It represents not only a spiritual awakening but it is also a significant milestone in the struggle for social justice and equality in India, making it an occasion of great reverence and reflection for each one of us.

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Dhammachakra Pravartan Din 2023: Why it is Celebrated on October 14 and Dussehra? History, Significance and - News18