In a significant move for Kodagu district, Madikeri MLA Manthar Gowda initiated the construction of a new statue dedicated to Dr. BR Ambedkar. The formal foundation stone-laying ceremony took place on Saturday, marking the start of a project long demanded by the local community.
Project Details and Funding
The statue of Dr. BR Ambedkar, revered as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, will be installed at the Municipality Park located near the tollgate area in Madikeri. The total estimated cost of the project is Rs 44 lakh. Financial arrangements have been carefully planned, with the Madikeri Municipal Council committing Rs 20 lakh. The remaining Rs 24 lakh will be sourced from the MLA's local area development fund.
Addressing the gathering after the ceremony, MLA Manthar Gowda expressed satisfaction that the persistent demand for installing Ambedkar's statue in the district headquarters was finally being met. He also opened the door for public participation, welcoming voluntary contributions from donors who wish to support the initiative.
Timeline and Broader Impact
Construction work on the statue is scheduled to commence shortly. The authorities have set a clear deadline for completion, with the inauguration tentatively planned for April 14, 2026. This date holds great significance as it coincides with Ambedkar Jayanti, the birth anniversary of the celebrated leader and social reformer.
Gowda also highlighted that the project in Madikeri is not the only one in demand. He noted that residents of Kodlipet have submitted a separate request for an Ambedkar statue in their locality. The MLA assured that efforts would be made to address this request as well, indicating a wider push to honor Ambedkar's legacy across the region.
Leaders Emphasize Ambedkar's Enduring Legacy
Speaking at the event, Municipal Council president P Kalavathi urged the public to go beyond symbolic tributes. She stressed the importance of studying Ambedkar's own writings and speeches to gain a genuine understanding of his vision for an equitable society.
Echoing this sentiment, Municipal Council vice-president Mahesh Jaini called Ambedkar a permanent national asset. He highlighted the monumental contributions made by Ambedkar in drafting the Constitution, framing laws, and championing the rights of workers and women, which continue to shape modern India.
The installation of this statue is poised to become a landmark in Madikeri, serving as a constant reminder of the principles of justice, liberty, and equality enshrined by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
