Deekshabhoomi, located in Nagpur, Maharashtra, holds profound significance as a sacred and inspiring site for millions of Ambedkarite Buddhists. It is regarded as the first pilgrimage center of Ambedkarite Buddhism in India and a symbol of a social revolution against class conflicts and inequality. The name itself, "Deekshabhoomi," translates to "the ground where people got ordained as Buddhist," commemorating the historic mass conversion ceremony led by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
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| Deekshabhoomi,in Nagpur, MH upload.wikimedia.org Image: Ganesh Dhamodkar |
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| 22 vows given by Ambedkar at Deekshabhoom en.wikipedia.org image: Ganesh Dhamodkar |
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| 2017 postal stamp.Ambedkar at Deekshabhoom en.wikipedia.org image: |
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| Dr.Ambedkar, Deekshabhoom miscellaneousbhar at.com |
In memory of this historic event and Ambedkar's vision of a "Prabuddha Bharat" (Enlightened India), the world's largest hollow stupa was constructed at the site. Inaugurated in 2001, the stupa's design is inspired by the famous Sanchi Stupa but is unique for its hollow interior. The two-storied hemispherical building features gates resembling those at Sanchi. Inside, a large circular hall houses an image of the Buddha, donated by Thai students. The complex
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| Deekshabhoomi Buddhist shrine miscellaneousbharat. com |
Beyond the stupa, the Deekshabhoomi complex features a Buddha Vihara with a bronze statue of the Buddha and a sacred Bodhi Tree. This tree was grown from branches brought from the Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, as a memorial to the Buddha's enlightenment. Every year, millions of pilgrims visit Deekshabhoomi, particularly on Dhamma Chakra Pravartan Din (Ashok Vijaya Dashmi), making it a significant center for tourism and pilgrimage. The site is a testament to Ambedkar's final religious act and his enduring legacy.
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