Guwahati: Guwahati has paid a lasting tribute to Bharat Ratna Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, by officially renaming the well-known Chabipul Chariali as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Chowk. The significant announcement was made today, April 14th, by Assam’s Public Health Engineering Minister, Jayanta Mallabaruah, during a special commemorative event held to mark Dr. Ambedkar’s 135th birth anniversary.
The renaming of this historic Guwahati intersection is a powerful symbol of respect for Dr. Ambedkar’s monumental contributions to the nation, particularly his unwavering advocacy for equality, liberty, and social justice. Minister Mallabaruah unveiled the new nameplate in front of a gathering of citizens, with the ceremony coinciding with Ambedkar Jayanti celebrations being held across the country.
Observed annually on April 14th, Ambedkar Jayanti is a significant day of national observance, reflecting the enduring importance of Dr. Ambedkar’s democratic ideals. Across India, states including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh observed the day with large processions, cultural events, and heartfelt tributes to the revered leader.
The day is officially recognized as a gazetted national holiday, leading to widespread closures of key institutions nationwide. Government offices, both public and private sector banks, post offices, law courts, and educational institutions remained closed in observance of Ambedkar Jayanti. Even the stock market suspended trading activities for the day.
The Reserve Bank of India’s official holiday schedule confirmed the suspension of banking operations in numerous major cities, including Guwahati, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Lucknow. Despite the physical closures, digital banking services such as internet banking, mobile applications, and WhatsApp-based banking remained active, ensuring continuous access to financial services for the public.
While the national holiday prompted many closures, private sector businesses and essential services largely continued their operations across most states. Interestingly, banking institutions in a few regions, including Delhi, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, and Himachal Pradesh, remained open for business despite the nationwide holiday.
By renaming a prominent landmark in the city after Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Guwahati has made a concrete and lasting contribution to the national commemoration of his legacy. This symbolic act ensures that Dr. Ambedkar’s profound influence will be woven into the fabric of the city’s identity, impacting daily navigation, civic pride, and collective remembrance for generations to come.
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