DJ-Free Ambedkar Jayanti in Pune Wins Praise; 30-Foot Buddha Installation Draws Crowd
Pune, 14th April 2026: Celebrations marking the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar in Pune witnessed a significant shift this year, as organisers opted for a “DJ-free” procession, replacing loud music systems with thought-driven activities. The decision, led by Bhimseva Pratishthan along with local volunteers, received widespread appreciation from followers and attendees.
Breaking away from a 25-year-old tradition of DJ-led processions, the organisers chose to emphasise the dissemination of Dr Ambedkar’s ideas through a calm, disciplined and intellectual approach. The move was in response to appeals by the central Jayanti committee and concerns over rising noise pollution and its adverse impact on public health, particularly on senior citizens and patients.
Members of Bhimseva Pratishthan, including Rambhau Dambale, Siddhant Surve, Nikhil Bahule, Aviraj Marathe, Pradeep Kamble, Pratik Dambale, Vicky Bhalerao and Samadhan Sonawane, unanimously supported the initiative and ensured its implementation.
A major highlight of the celebration was a 30-foot-tall Buddha installation set up near the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar statue in the Pune Railway Station area. The installation drew large crowds and aimed to symbolise peace while promoting the teachings of the social reformer.
In addition to the visual display, organisers focused on meaningful outreach by distributing books based on the thoughts and teachings of great leaders to nearly 1,000 followers. The initiative reflected Dr Ambedkar’s message on the importance of education and awareness.
Thousands of followers, along with their families, gathered in the Pune Station area to pay tribute in a disciplined manner. The absence of loud music and the focus on intellectual engagement set a new precedent for celebrating Ambedkar Jayanti in the city.
Organisers said that the encouraging public response to the DJ-free format has strengthened their resolve to continue similar celebrations in the coming years.
