Minal Shende

Nov 1, 2024 | countercurrents.org | Vidyadhar Date |Dinkar Kapoor |Naveen Prasad Alex |Minal Shende

This was an unusual book launch in Mumbai on October 30 where the author , a prominent human rights activist, management professor, faces restrictions on his movements because of a court order. And the audience included some of the best minds including well known poet Vara Vara Rao, who are either on bail in the Bhima Koregaon case or their movements are restricted too. The author is Anand Teltumbde and the book is “Iconoclast – a reflective biography of Babasaheb Ambedkar”.

Oct 14, 2024 | countercurrents.org | Dinkar Kapoor |Naveen Prasad Alex |Minal Shende |Vivek Sakpal

On 14 October 1956, Dr. Ambedkar converted to Buddhism in Nagpur due to untouchability, caste and class divisions in Hinduism. This day is as important for his followers as 14 April is his Birthday and 6 December is his Parinirvana Divas. Some people also celebrate it on Vijayadashami i.e. Dussehra day because Dussehra fell on this day in 1956.

Jul 27, 2024 | countercurrents.org | Naveen Prasad Alex |Minal Shende |Vivek Sakpal |Ratnesh Katulkar

It was an evening in July when I set out for Chaitya Bhoomi, the memorial and final resting place of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Visionary Who Gave Us the Freedom We Cherish. The day was cloaked in a serene solemnity, with a light drizzle adding to the reflective atmosphere, as if the universe itself was paying homage to a man whose life and work had profoundly impacted millions. As I approached this sacred site, located in Dadar, Mumbai, an overwhelming sense of reverence washed over me.

Jun 30, 2024 | countercurrents.org | Bhabani Nayak |Minal Shende |Bharat Dogra |Andre Damon

Historically, markets were established by working people to serve their everyday needs and desires. These markets were grounded in the local communities they served, reflecting the economic and social realities of the time. People would come together in these markets to trade goods and services, fostering a sense of community and mutual dependence. The primary focus was on meeting the essential needs of the population, ensuring access to food, clothing, tools, and other necessities.

Jun 30, 2024 | countercurrents.org | Vivek Sakpal |Ratnesh Katulkar |Subhash Gatade |Minal Shende

Deekshabhumi a site where Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar embraced Buddhism on October 14, 1956 along with his millions of his followers is now facing an existential crisis. Common persons’ entry to the upcoming Dhammachakra Pravartan Divas in October could be permanently restricted if things continue as they are. This is due to the fact that for the past few months, digging has taken place below the main stupa for the construction of a three-story parking area for vehicles.