New Delhi, April 10 Ahead of B.R. Ambedkar's birth anniversary, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the five-day 'Bhim Jyoti Utsav-2026' at Kartavya Path on Friday, where over 6,000 'Jai Bhim' lamps were lit, officials said.
The event began with the lighting of the ceremonial 'Bhim Jyoti', followed by tributes to Ambedkar. Cabinet Minister Ravindra Indraj Singh, senior officials, and a large number of citizens attended the programme, according to a statement released here.
Gupta also launched a walkathon to promote awareness about equality and later visited the venue, where more than 50 stalls set up by various departments showcased government welfare schemes and public initiatives.
Addressing the gathering, the chief minister said the Constitution was not merely a legal document but a guarantee of dignity and rights, especially for those at the margins.
She described Ambedkar's life as an enduring example of commitment to social justice and urged people to follow his ideals in everyday life.
Referring to the festival as a "people's movement", Gupta said activities such as quizzes, workshops, and art exhibitions planned over the five days would help sensitise youth and students about their constitutional rights and duties.
She reiterated the government's commitment to empowering marginalized communities.
Singh said the initiative aimed to spread awareness and take Ambedkar's ideas to every section of society.
He highlighted steps taken for the upliftment of underprivileged communities, including schemes for girls' education and financial support, adding that efforts were being made to ensure benefits reach all sections, including Dalit settlements.
The festival, being held from April 10 to 14 at a specially developed venue along Kartavya Path, features a curated gallery on 299 eminent personalities, presenting their contributions through digital and interactive formats, it stated.
An exhibition tracing key milestones in Ambedkar's life – from his early years to his role in drafting the Constitution – has also been set up to highlight his work for social justice. It references organisations such as 'Mooknayak' and 'Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha', along with significant historical developments, the statement said.
A 'Constitution Fair' at the venue has drawn visitors with its interactive digital timeline and displays on government schemes, including scholarships, pensions and skill development programmes, as per statement.
Cultural performances are also part of the event. The opening day featured musical and folk presentations, including a wheelchair dance by specially-abled children, conveying a message of inclusion, it read.
Programs such as qawwalis, street plays and Ambedkarite folk music will be held at the India Gate lawns from April 12 to 14, as part of efforts to spread awareness about social justice among a wider audience, it added.