VIJAYAWADA: In an electrifying ceremony marked by chants of “Jai Bheem” and “Jai Jagan,” Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy inaugurated the world’s largest BR Ambedkar statue in Vijayawada. The 206-ft tall bronze statue, located at Ambedkar Swaraj Maidan, signified the state government’s commitment to empowering marginalised communities, constituting over 75 per cent of the population.
Addressing a sea of supporters from various districts, Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy emphasised the importance of the statue, stating, “This is not just a statue; it is a symbol of equality that will remind you each day about your rights, representing people’s power. It is here to show my commitment and the work we have done in the last 56 months.”
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Drawing a parallel with the Statue of Liberty in the USA, CM Jagan declared, “Today, Vijayawada proudly etches its name on the global stage with the world’s tallest tribute to Dr. BR Ambedkar ~ the Statue of Social Justice.”
During his speech, Jagan also highlighted the government’s efforts in realising Ambedkar’s vision, stating, “From Kuppam to Ichchapuram, we have revolutionised every village and every household by empowering women through education, as envisioned by Dr. BR Ambedkar.”
He criticised the opposition, stating, “Leaving government schools in dilapidated conditions and not providing permanent houses for backward classes is a form of untouchability practiced by the opposition. In contrast, the YSRCP government has focused entirely on the overall development and progress of the backward classes.”
Reddy also emphasised the government’s commitment to social justice by providing 70 per cent of ministerial positions to backward communities and nominating MPs and Zila Parishad Chairmen from these communities. The CM, along with his ministerial team, unveiled the 206-ft statue at Swaraj Maidan, followed by a spectacular display of fireworks, drones, and laser lights.
Key Features Of Statue Of Social Justice:
– The 125-feet bronze Ambedkar statue, with an investment of Rs 404 crore, is the world’s tallest (206 feet).
– Placed on an 81 feet pedestal pyramidical base, it features a 166-pillar corridor and 36 murals made with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP).
– The base, called ‘Kala Chakra Maha Mandapam,’ is made of Buddhist Architecture with Pink Sandstone from Rajasthan.
– The premises include a 33,800 sq ft ‘Vihara Museum,’ a 75-seater Chaitya Mini auditorium, and a state-of-the-art library.
– The ‘Statue of Social Justice’ area also houses an experience centre, a convention centre, a food court, a children’s play area, and musical fountains.