Mukti Bhoomi

Mukti Bhoomi (lit. 'Land of Liberation') is a Buddhist stupa, and memorial and museum located in Yeola, Maharashtra, India. The site is dedicated to B. R. Ambedkar, a scholar, the father of the Indian Constitution and the leader of the Dalit Buddhist movement. The memorial was officially inaugurated on 2 April 2014. Mukti Bhoomi holds historical importance as the site where Ambedkar first publicly renounced Hinduism and announced his decision to convert to another religion. During this momentous occasion, he declared, “Though I was born a Hindu, I solemnly assure you that I will not die as a Hindu.” This announcement took place on 13 October 1935 and marked a turning point in the history of social reform and religious identity in India. The event laid the foundation for Ambedkar's eventual conversion to Buddhism in 1956, along with millions of his followers. Recognizing its cultural and historical significance, the Government of Maharashtra has designated Mukti Bhoomi as a 'Category B' pilgrimage site. Since its inauguration, the memorial has become a major destination for Ambedkarites, Buddhists and general visitors, drawing large numbers of people throughout the year. The site frequently hosts a range of events, including cultural festivals, social gatherings, and educational programs, aimed at promoting the values of equality, justice, and human rights espoused by Ambedkar.

Monument data from Wikidata (CC0). Summary from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).