Konaje, Mangalore University held a joint celebration honouring the 134th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the 118th birth anniversary of Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram on Monday.
Professor Shivananda Kelaginamani from Kuvempu University delivered the keynote address, describing Dr. Ambedkar as a visionary who fought against social inequalities using knowledge, justice, and organization to ensure citizens' freedoms. He highlighted Dr. Jagjivan Ram's contributions as Agriculture Minister, where his initiatives helped India achieve food self-sufficiency, and as Labour Minister, improving workers' lives.
Vice Chancellor Prof. P.L. Dharma urged students to embrace both leaders' ideals, emphasizing Ambedkar's work for women's equal rights and Jagjivan Ram's dedication to solving national problems.
The ceremony began with floral tributes to Dr. Ambedkar's statue and garlanding of both leaders' portraits. University Registrar K. Raju Mogaveera stressed the importance of studying Ambedkar's contributions and acknowledged Jagjivan Ram's rise from a marginalized community to political prominence.
The event featured cultural performances and was coordinated by Dr. N. Narasimhayya of the SC/ST Cell, with active participation from faculty, staff, and students.