Babasaheb in the Skies: Air India’s Mahaparinirvan Diwas Tribute to Dr. Ambedkar Leaves Passenger in Tears

Mumbai- Even after 69 years of his passing, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's influence remains deeply etched in the hearts of millions. The architect of the Indian Constitution and a champion of social justice, his vision continues to resonate across generations. On December 6, 2024, Mahaparinirvan Diwas, this connection was poignantly reaffirmed when an in-flight announcement aboard Air India flight AI 616 flying from Chandigarh to Mumbai paid tribute to Babasaheb, leaving a passenger overwhelmed with emotion.

For Swapnil Ramteke, an Ambedkarite from Nagpur—home to Deekshabhoomi, where Babasaheb embraced Buddhism in 1956—the moment was nothing short of transformative. Far from the iconic Chaitya Bhoomi commemorations in Mumbai, Swapnil was en route from Chandigarh to Mumbai for work. Feeling disconnected from the vibrant tribute atmosphere, he was caught off guard when an announcement filled the cabin:

"एक सूचना: भारतीय संविधान के जनक और स्वतंत्र भारत के पहले कानून मंत्री डॉ. बाबासाहेब आंबेडकर साहब को उनकी 69वीं डेथ एनिवर्सरी पर आज हम विनम्र अभिवादन करते हैं ।

The nation pays tribute to the Father of the Indian Constitution and the first law minister of Independent India, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, on his 69th death anniversary today on 6th December."

A Heartfelt Connection at 30,000 Feet

The announcement, though unexpected, was a moment of profound connection for Swapnil. “I was missing the Chaitya Bhoomi vibe while sitting on the flight. My mind was with Babasaheb, and suddenly, this announcement came. It was so overwhelming that I couldn’t hold back my emotions,” he told The Mooknayak.

Seated in one of the rear rows, Swapnil recorded the announcement and shared it on social media. His post quickly garnered widespread appreciation from Ambedkarites across the country, with many applauding Air India’s gesture to honor Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions.

“While it was heartwarming to hear Babasaheb’s name in the skies, I felt disappointed that none of the prominent personalities on the flight—lawyers, actors, or politicians—responded to the announcement. I wish they had shown a token of respect,” Swapnil added.

A 39-year-old corporate professional working in the medical and scientific devices sector, Swapnil takes immense pride in his family’s association with Babasaheb’s legacy. His grandparents were among the 5 lakh individuals who converted to Buddhism with Dr. Ambedkar on October 14, 1956.

My Nanaji was 21 years old then, and my father was just five. Since that historic day, our family has imbibed Buddhist principles and lived by Babasaheb’s teachings,” Swapnil shared.

Empowering Communities Through Education

Beyond celebrating Babasaheb’s legacy, Swapnil has actively worked to uphold his values, particularly in education. In 2012, he joined a career guidance initiative by the Ambedkar International Mission. “We had a Facebook group called ‘Buddhists,’ where like-minded professionals came together to guide and inspire students from marginalized communities. Despite limited resources, we encouraged young minds to pursue education as a path to empowerment,” he said.

His efforts extended to book distribution drives at significant Ambedkarite sites like Chaitya Bhoomi, Deekshabhoomi, and Bhima Koregaon. Collaborating with Ambedkarite International Centre, a team of volunteers distribute thousands of copies of Mukti Kon Pathe (What is the Means to Salvation)

The initiative even included a modern touch: each booklet featured a QR code linking to BAWS (Babasaheb Ambedkar Writings and Speeches) an online repository of Dr. Ambedkar’s works. “For those unable to read or understand certain languages, the platform provides audio versions, ensuring Babasaheb’s vision reaches everyone,” he explained. Readers can access to Baba saheb's speeches at baws.in.

The impact of these work has been deeply felt. He recalls one particularly touching moment when a man contacted him after his young daughter read one of the distributed books. “She asked her father to call me and share how she couldn’t sleep all night after reading Babasaheb’s words. Her understanding and emotional connection at such a young age were both humbling and inspiring,” Swapnil recounted.

Although professional commitments have limited his involvement in recent years, he continues to contribute through initiatives like book distribution drives at key sites associated with Dr. Ambedkar, such as Chaitya Bhoomi, Deekshabhoomi, and Bhima Koregaon.

For Swapnil, Air India’s tribute was more than an announcement; it was a reminder of the enduring relevance of Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals. “Babasaheb taught us to strive for equality, justice, and education. Moments like this show how his vision continues to inspire people and institutions alike,” he reflected.