Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has announced a public holiday on December 6, 2024, to observe Mahaparinirvan Diwas, commemorating the death anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. According to an official circular, the holiday will apply to all government and semi-government offices in Mumbai and Mumbai Suburban districts. The decision aligns with provisions outlined in the General Administration Department’s circular dated September 18, 1996.
Local Holiday for Mahaparinirvan Diwas
Since 2007, Mumbai has observed local holidays on Anant Chaturdashi and Gopalkala (Dahi Handi). This year, the holiday for Mahaparinirvan Diwas will mark the third local holiday in 2024 for the region.
Mahaparinirvan Diwas is observed annually in honor of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a prominent social reformer. The day witnesses tributes and events throughout the state to celebrate his contributions.
Additional Suburban Trains for Commuters
To accommodate the increased number of visitors expected to pay tribute to Dr. Ambedkar, the Central Railway has announced 12 additional suburban special trains. These trains will operate between Parel-Kalyan and Kurla-Panvel during the midnight hours of December 5-6.
The Railway Administration has advised passengers to ensure they have valid tickets to avoid inconvenience. The train schedule is as follows:
Main Line Trains:
- Parel-Thane Special: Departure at 01:15 hrs, arrival at 01:55 hrs.
- Parel-Kalyan Special: Departure at 02:25 hrs, arrival at 03:40 hrs.
- Parel-Kurla Special: Departure at 03:05 hrs, arrival at 03:20 hrs.
Harbour Line Trains (Up Services):
- Vashi-Kurla Special: Departure at 01:30 hrs, arrival at 02:10 hrs.
- Panvel-Kurla Special: Departure at 01:40 hrs, arrival at 02:45 hrs.
- Vashi-Kurla Special: Departure at 03:10 hrs, arrival at 03:40 hrs.
Harbour Line Trains (Down Services):
- Kurla-Vashi Special: Departure at 02:30 hrs, arrival at 03:00 hrs.
- Kurla-Panvel Special: Departure at 03:00 hrs, arrival at 04:00 hrs.
- Kurla-Vashi Special: Departure at 04:00 hrs, arrival at 04:35 hrs.
Remembering Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar
Born on April 14, 1891, Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was a visionary jurist, economist, politician, and social reformer. He fought against caste-based discrimination and championed the rights of Dalits, women, and laborers. He passed away on December 6, 1956, a date now commemorated as Mahaparinirvan Diwas.
Dr. Ambedkar’s academic achievements were remarkable. He earned doctorates in economics from Columbia University and the University of London. In 1932, he played a pivotal role in the Poona Pact, securing 148 legislative seats for the depressed classes.
As one of the principal architects of the Indian Constitution, he laid the foundation for modern India. In recognition of his immense contributions, Dr. Ambedkar was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1990.
This December 6, the state and the nation will come together to honor his enduring legacy.
