Ambedkar Memorial Park, also known as Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Samajik Parivartan Prateek Sthal, is a public park and memorial in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. The park is dedicated to B. R. Ambedkar, the 20th century Indian polymath and the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. The park also honours the lives and memories of other social reformers and leaders who fought for the rights and dignity of the oppressed and marginalized sections of the society, such as Jyotirao Phule, Narayana Guru, Birsa Munda, Shahuji Maharaj, and Kanshi Ram.
The park is spread over an area of 107 acres and features various monuments, statues, museums, and gardens that showcase the history and culture of the Dalit community in India. Visit during One Day Lucknow Sightseeing Trip By Private cab
Location of Ambedkar Memorial Park
Ambedkar Memorial Park is located in the posh locality of Gomti Nagar, which is the largest planned residential colony in India. The park is situated near the banks of the Gomti River, which is a tributary of the Ganges. The park is about 8 km from the Lucknow Railway Station and 14 km from the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport.
The park is easily accessible by public transport, such as buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws. The park is also close to other tourist attractions in Lucknow, such as Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, Chota Imambara, British Residency, and Janeshwar Mishra Park.
Timing and Entry Fees of Ambedkar Memorial Park
Ambedkar Memorial Park is open to visitors from 11 am to 6 pm every day, except on Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee for Indian nationals is Rs. 10 per person, while for foreign nationals it is Rs. 500 per person. There is no fee for children below 5 years of age and senior citizens above 65 years of age. There is also no fee for using a camera or a video camera inside the park.
Things to Do and Must See in Ambedkar Memorial Park
Ambedkar Memorial Park is a must-visit place for anyone who loves history, culture, and architecture. There are many things to do and see inside the park, such as:
- The Ambedkar Stupa: The main attraction of the park is the Ambedkar Stupa, which is a huge dome-shaped structure that houses a bronze statue of Ambedkar seated in a chair. The statue was modeled on the sculpture of Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. The stupa also has four doors that lead to a gallery that displays various statues depicting the biography of Ambedkar. The stupa has a unique acoustic feature that allows sound to travel from one corner to another.
- The Pratibimb Sthal: The Pratibimb Sthal is a circular platform that surrounds the Ambedkar Stupa. It has 62 elephant statues that symbolize strength and wisdom. The platform also has fountains and lights that create a mesmerizing effect at night.
- The Sangrahalaya: The Sangrahalaya is a museum that showcases various artifacts and relics related to the history and culture of the Dalit community in India. It displays weapons, coins, paintings, photographs, manuscripts, pottery, costumes, jewelry, and other items that belong to different periods and dynasties.
- The Prerna Sthal: The Prerna Sthal is a garden that has statues of other social reformers and leaders who inspired Ambedkar and his movement. It includes Jyotirao Phule, Narayana Guru, Birsa Munda, Shahuji Maharaj, Kanshi Ram, Ramabai Ambedkar, Savitribai Phule, Rani Jhalkari Bai, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Sant Ravidas , Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj , Periyar E.V.Ramasamy , Sant Kabir Das , Guru Ghasidas , Bahujan Nayak Manyawar Kanshiram Ji , Mata Savitri Bai Phule , Nishadraj , Uda Devi , Mayawati , etc.
- The Gallery: The Gallery is a corridor that connects the Sangrahalaya and the Prerna Sthal. It has murals and paintings that depict various events and achievements of Ambedkar and his followers.
Significance of Ambedkar Memorial Park
Ambedkar Memorial Park is not only a monument of historical and architectural importance but also a place of social and cultural significance. It was built by Mayawati , the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh , during her administration when she led the Bahujan Samaj Party . It was inaugurated on 14 April 2008, the birth anniversary of Ambedkar.
The park is a symbol of the struggle and dignity of the Dalit community, who have faced centuries of discrimination and oppression in India. The park also celebrates the contributions and legacy of Ambedkar, who was a champion of democracy, equality, justice, and human rights. The park also reflects the syncretic culture and tolerance of Lucknow, where people of different faiths and backgrounds coexist peacefully.
FAQ’s
Q: How long does it take to visit Ambedkar Memorial Park?
A: It depends on your interest and pace, but generally it takes about 2 to 3 hours to explore the entire park.
Q: Is there a dress code for visiting Ambedkar Memorial Park?
A: There is no strict dress code, but it is advisable to wear modest and comfortable clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
Q: Is there a locker facility for storing valuables at Ambedkar Memorial Park?
A: No, there is no locker facility available at the park. You are advised to carry only essential items and keep them with you at all times.
Q: Is there a cafeteria or restaurant at Ambedkar Memorial Park?
A: No, there is no cafeteria or restaurant inside the park, but there are many eateries and street food stalls outside the park where you can enjoy the famous Lucknowi cuisine.
Q: Is photography allowed inside Ambedkar Memorial Park?
A: Yes, photography is allowed inside the park, but you need to respect the sentiments and privacy of other visitors and staff. You should also avoid using flash or tripod near the statues and monuments.
Conclusion
Ambedkar Memorial Park is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Lucknow. It is a masterpiece of architecture and engineering that showcases the rich history and culture of the Dalit community in India. It is also a place of inspiration and empowerment that reflects the spirit of humanity and harmony. Ambedkar Memorial Park is a monument that will leave you spellbound and amazed by its beauty and grandeur.
