Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar’s birth anniversary is celebrated across India’s towns and villages every year. But as the crowds grow, so does the scramble to claim the icon – every political party wants its own version of Babasaheb.

But who was Ambedkar beyond the slogans? Has he been turned into a symbol emptied of his politics? Does his vision remain far more radical than the parties invoking his name?

To look for answers, we went to Parliament Street in Delhi, where thousands gathered to celebrate the event. 

By sunrise, the streets were filled with people carrying copies of the Constitution, portraits of Babasaheb and blue flags. “Jai Bhim” rang out across Parliament Street. Families arrived with children, determined to pass on the ideas of equality, dignity and constitutional rights to the next generation. There were songs, poems and street performances rooted in Dalit history and literature. Young people held up posters and artwork demanding education, jobs and social justice.

Watch.

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