Pune: Villagers of Koregaon Bhima Panchkroshi to Give Grand Welcome to Ambedkari Followers, Foreign Nationals Also Expected This Year

Pune, 23rd November 2023: Every January 1, lakhs of Ambedkari followers gather in Bhima Koregaon to pay homage to the Victory Pillar. Sarjerao Waghmare, the President of Koregaon Bhima Vijay Ranastambha Seva Sangh, stated that the sarpanch of Koregaon Bhima, Perne village, leaders of all parties, organizations, and village followers will extend a grand welcome, showering everyone with roses. Welcome arches will adorn various locations, showcasing the warm hospitality of the villagers. Residents of Koregaon Bhima and citizens, in large numbers, are expected to join the festivities this year.

As a tradition, party and organization leaders paying homage to Jayastambha on behalf of Koregaon Bhima Vijay Stambha Seva Sangh will be honored with a badge of honor. Additionally, the Koregaon Bhima Vijay Jayastambh Seva Sangh plans to provide adequate space for stallholders, with decisions pending discussion with Rajesh Deshmukh, Collector Pune, and concerned officials.

For the first time, two selfie points featuring a replica Jayastambh will be established on the east and west sides by Koregaon Bhima Vijay Ranastambh Seva Sangh. Followers are encouraged to make the most of these points. Furthermore, information boards detailing the history of Koregaon Bhima Jayastambha will be installed at designated locations with government permission.

On December 31, from 8 to 11 pm, a program focusing on the enlightenment of Babasaheb Ambedkar’s thought will be held. The midnight victory festival, marked by fireworks, will be followed by a community Buddha Vandana led by Bhante Jnyanjyoti and dignitaries. Bhante Gyanjyoti’s Dhamma Desana program will continue until 5 AM on January 1, 2024.

The morning will witness Buddha Vandana on behalf of Indian Buddhist Mahasabha and Committee. The “Shaurya Pahat” program, led by Republican Sena’s Maharashtra President Vivek Bansode and Republican Workers’ Alliance President Yuvraj Bansode, will commence at 6 am, inaugurated by Sarsenani Anandraj Ambedkar. Thousands of soldiers from the Retired Mahar Regiment will pay their respects to Jayastambha.

On December 2, 2024, a cleanliness campaign is scheduled for the Jai Stambha area, with the participation of the Sarpanch of Perne Gram Panchayat and Koregaon Gram Panchayat. Sarjerao Waghmare has urged followers to utilize the accommodations and food services provided by Koregaon Bhima Vijay Ranastambh Seva Sangh from December 26 to December 31.

Approximately 2.5 lakh people are expected to visit from all over the country to pay homage to Jayastambha this year. The administration, Koregaon Bhima Vijay Ranastambha Seva Sangh, and Ambedkari party organizations are collaborating to ensure civic facilities for the citizens. Present at the press conference were Sarjerao Waghmare, President, Korgaon Bhima Sarpanch Vikram Gavane, Perne Village Sarpanch Ushatai Valke, Sameer Jadhav, and Nilesh Gaikwad.