Former Indian cricket legends Rahul Dravid and Ajit Agarkar recently made a profound gesture of homage to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the iconic figure in India’s social justice movement, during their visit to Columbia University in New York City. This unexpected yet deeply touching tribute occurred amidst the whirlwind excitement of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024, where India is making waves on the cricket field.
A photograph capturing Rahul Dravid’s reverential moment before the bust of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar quickly spread across the internet, eliciting widespread admiration and reflection. Shared by Vishal Misra, Vice Dean of Computing and AI at Columbia University, this snapshot not only portrays Dravid’s respect for Ambedkar but also underscores the profound significance of the occasion. Alongside Dravid, Ajit Agarkar, currently serving as the chief selector of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), was also photographed during this poignant visit, symbolizing the fusion of athletic prowess with societal consciousness.
Both Dravid and Agarkar find themselves in the United States as integral members of the Indian contingent participating in the T20 World Cup 2024. Following a triumphant inaugural match against Ireland on June 5th, where India clinched victory by eight wickets, the team is now gearing up for a highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 9th at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.
The bust of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, housed within the Lehman Social Sciences Library at Columbia University, holds profound significance. Sculpted by Vinay Brahmesh Wagh of Bombay and presented by the Federation of Ambedkarite and Buddhist Organizations UK to the Southern Asian Institute in 1995, it stands as an enduring testament to Dr. Ambedkar’s indelible legacy and his global impact on social justice and equality.
This visit not only serves to underscore the cultural exchange between India and the United States but also offers a poignant reminder of Dr. Ambedkar’s monumental contributions to humanity. As cricket transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, moments like these exemplify the intersection of sports, education, and social progress, resonating far beyond the boundaries of the cricket pitch.
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