Talk: Indian Constitution and Dr. B.R Ambedkar
The event will focus on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's pivotal role in shaping the Indian Constitution, highlighting his commitment to equality, justice, and empowerment. It will explore key insights from his Constituent Assembly speeches, where he stressed the importance of safeguarding democracy, protecting minorities, and advancing social justice. The discussion will also look at how the Constitution, as a living and evolving document, continues to guide India in tackling various challenges while preserving, promoting, and strengthening democratic values, making Ambedkar's vision increasingly relevant in today's context.
Key Speakers:
Dr Vijay Rana: A historian by education, a journalist by profession and a photographer by passion. Having earned D. Phil. from the University of Allahabad, journalist, historian, and filmmaker Vijay Rana joined the BBC Hindi Service in Bush House, London, in 1982 and rose to become its radio editor. More than two decades later, he left the BBC voluntarily to pursue a creative life. He has written for leading newspapers and produced four documentaries for Doordarshan, including one in 2015 marking 100 years of Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram. Over the past eight years, he filmed Varanasi, resulting in the documentary Banaras: The Story of India’s Sacred City. His exploration also led to the publication of a photographic book, Kashi: The Abode of Shiva, by Rupa Publications in March 2024.
Dr. Shrikant Borkar: A BARD Fellow at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. He holds an MA and PhD in Anthropology of Development, along with an MSc in Cross-Cultural Research Methods. His work is deeply engaged with the socio-cultural and political dynamics of British Indian communities, contributing to a deeper understanding and dialogue. He is regular speaker and contributor for Dr B R Ambedkar's idea, values and social justice system.
Friends of India Society International (FISI) UK, a voluntary organisation representing a diverse body of professionals and business leaders, has been actively working towards building cultural, political, and economic relations between UK and India. FISI, UK has been dedicated to advocating for and protecting India's interests globally. Since 1976, it has played a pioneering role in strengthening and promoting India-UK relations while keeping India’s interests at the forefront.