JAMMU: A grand joint celebration of Buddha–Ambedkar Jayanti was organized by All J&K Shree Guru Ravidass Sabha in collaboration with JKRCEA and Bhagat Mahasabha at the premises of Shree Guru Ravidass Gurudwara, Krishna Nagar, Jammu. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of followers across Jammu province, reflecting a spirit of unity and social awareness.
The programme was organized to commemorate Buddha Purnima and the birth anniversary of B R Ambedkar, collectively observed as Buddha–Ambedkar Jayanti. To mark the occasion with a humanitarian gesture, a voluntary blood donation camp was also organized in collaboration with the Department of Blood Transfusion Medicine, GMC Jammu, where 12 volunteers donated blood.
The event was graced by noted media personality Arfa Khanum Sherwani as the Chief Guest, while former JKPSC member Des Raj Bhagat attended as the Guest of Honour. The programme commenced with Buddha Vandana presented by the Savitri Bai Phule Mahila Sangathan, followed by a vibrant Bheem Qawwali by Tapsya Art Group of Krishna Bnagotra. The audience was further engaged through soulful missionary songs performed by Sonu Heer and Satish Bhagat.
The formal welcome address was delivered by Er. R.C. Bhasin, President of All J&K Shree Guru Ravidass Sabha, who highlighted the significance of celebrating the ideals of equality, justice, and fraternity associated with the teachings of Lord Buddha and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Speaking on the occasion, social activist Tarsem Moolnivasi described the joint celebration of two great thinkers under one platform as a unique and historic initiative in Jammu. He emphasized that the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution of India are deeply rooted in the teachings of Gautama Buddha. He further noted that India’s identity on the global stage is significantly shaped by the contributions of Buddha and Ambedkar, and their teachings must be followed sincerely to establish an egalitarian society.
Guest of Honour Des Raj Bhagat elaborated on the relevance of Buddha–Ambedkar Jayanti as a path towards equality and social justice. Quoting Dr. Ambedkar, he said that the philosophy of liberty, equality, and fraternity was inspired by the teachings of Buddha. He urged people to adopt these ideals in their daily lives and work collectively towards building a society based on justice, compassion, and human dignity. He also reiterated the importance of Ambedkar’s message—“Educate, Agitate, and Organize”—as a guiding principle for social transformation.
In her thought-provoking address, Chief Guest Arfa Khanum Sherwani congratulated the organizers for bringing together diverse communities to celebrate the legacy of two iconic leaders. She highlighted the contributions of Buddha and Ambedkar towards women’s empowerment, stating that both leaders challenged social hierarchies and advocated equality. She pointed out that Buddha recognized the spiritual potential of women over 2,500 years ago, while Dr. Ambedkar championed legal and social reforms to secure women’s rights. She encouraged women to take leadership roles, pursue education, and actively participate in shaping a just society.
Several eminent personalities, including Er. K.K. Thapa, Bodh Raj Bhagat, and Nasib Chand, were honoured during the event for their contributions to society. The stage proceedings were efficiently conducted by Mohinder Bhagat, President of Bhagat Mahasabha and General Secretary of JKRCEA. The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks presented by Tarsem Loach, General Secretary of All J&K Shree Guru Ravidass Sabha, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, organizers, and participants for making the event successful.
The celebration not only paid tribute to the enduring legacy of Buddha and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar also reinforced the message of social equality, unity, and collective responsibility. The inclusion of a blood donation camp further underlined the commitment of the organizers towards community service and humanitarian values, making the event both meaningful and impactful.


