Houston Celebrates 135th Birth Anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar with Grand Commemoration

Houston, TX – The Dr. B.R. Ambedkar International Mission Center (AIM Center Houston) organized a grand and impactful celebration marking the 135th Birth Anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at the GSH Event Center, Houston. The event brought together community members, scholars, and civic leaders to honor the enduring legacy of the principal architect of the Constitution of India. The celebration was held with the distinguished presence and support of the Consulate General of India in Houston. Consul General Mr. D.C. Manjunath delivered the keynote address, emphasizing Dr. Ambedkar’s transformative contributions to society, particularly in advancing women’s empowerment, social justice, and inclusivity.

He encouraged attendees to uphold and carry forward these values. The event witnessed an impressive turnout, with over 230 attendees participating in person and more than 400 viewers joining globally via YouTube Live, underscoring the widespread and enduring relevance of Dr. Ambedkar’s vision, noted Aditya Dhiwar, AIM Center Houston Member and Event Coordinator.

The program featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including:

• Mr. Ashok Mago – Padma Shri awardee; Founding Chair, US India Chamber of Commerce

• Ms. Christina Dhanuja – Co-Founder, Dalit History Month Project

• Mr. D.C. Manjunath – Consul General of India, Houston

• Judge Julie Mathew – Fort Bend County Court at Law

• Dr. Prem Saganti – Regents Professor, Texas A&M University System

• Mr. Sanjay Singhal – Council Member, District 2, Sugar Land

• Ms. Shruti Uke – PhD Scholar, University of Texas at Austin

The celebration included vibrant cultural performances reflecting unity, heritage, and the ideals championed by Dr. Ambedkar. A key highlight was a special presentation on “Vande Mataram,” commemorating 150 years of the iconic national song, shared Snehal Dhiwar, AIM Center Houston Member and Cultural Coordinator. The program was hosted by Anand Kedare and Vaishali Ghodake, with enthusiastic support from school volunteers.

Participation by school volunteer, ranging from young children to adults along with broader involvement from youth, added a meaningful dimension to the event. Their enthusiastic engagement highlighted the next generation’s connection to Dr. Ambedkar’s principles, reinforcing a strong sense of continuity, awareness, and shared purpose. The Consulate General of India curated a special exhibition on the Constitution of India, offering attendees valuable insights into its foundational principles and ongoing relevance in modern society. The success of this event reflects the vision and dedication of the late Rajkumar Kamble, Founder of AIM Center Houston. His commitment to promoting Dr. Ambedkar’s teachings has been instrumental in building a strong, engaged, and purpose-driven community platform in Houston.

AIM Center Houston also extends its sincere appreciation to its dedicated Board of Directors for their leadership and continued commitment to advancing the organization’s mission:

1. Dr. Suresh Kumar – President

2. Mr. Sukhvinder Singh – Vice President-1

3. Mr. Raj Banga – Vice President-2

4. Mr. Randhir Rahi – General Secretary

5. Mrs. Sunita Shambharkar – Joint Secretary

6. Mr. Jagdish Bankar – Treasurer

Their collective vision, guidance, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in successfully organizing impactful events and strengthening community engagement in Houston.