'Chaityabhumi' by Somnath Waghmare

India/67 min/2023
Event details
Date: 15 January
Time: 19:30
Venue: Alfred-Hessel-Saal, Papendiek 14, 37073 Göttingen
Duration: 67 min
Director: Somnath Waghmare
Discussant: Rupa Viswanath (CeMIS)


Mahaparinirvan Din, the day of Dr. Ambedkar's departure, holds immense significance for the Dalit community. Every year from December 1 to December 6, millions of Dalit-Bahujans from across the nation make a pilgrimage to Chaityabhumi in Mumbai. This week-long commemoration is a heartfelt tribute to their revolutionary leader, a time to honor his memory and the profound impact he has had on their lives. It is a powerful symbol of their ongoing struggle for justice and equality, a day when their hearts beat as one, united in their unwavering resolve to carry forward Babasaheb's legacy.

During this time, the Ambedkar memorial Chaityabhumi in Mumbai's Shivaji Park transforms into a vibrant hub of activity. It becomes a cultural festival, where books are sold and purchased, music fills the air, and performances take place. However, amidst the reverence and celebration, there is also a sense of disdain from the city's media and elite. This documentary film seeks to illuminate the history and cultural politics behind the commemoration of December 6 at Chaityabhumi, shedding light on its significance in contemporary India.

The film delves into the tensions that arise from the intersection of caste and the public sphere in Mumbai. It explores how this peaceful event is viewed and received by different segments of society, bringing to the forefront the complexities of caste dynamics and the struggles faced by the oppressed in their quest for social justice. Through interviews, personal stories, and evocative visuals, the film aims to highlight the importance of this annual gathering and its role in shaping the narrative of a changing India.