By Jai Birdi
As I am sitting and relaxing in a hostel in Toronto, my eyes glaze over the portrait of Sir John A. MacDonald, Canada’s first prime minister and Father of the confederation. My eyes continue to glaze over mementoes on the wall and I see a banner displaying Canada’s ten provinces and two territories as this banner was a dedication to 100 year celebration of Canada that took place in 1967.
At this hostel, I see young and the young and hearts from all over the world having dialogues and sharing highlights of their journey. To me this represents confederation of the minds at the global level and I am thinking that this would certainly make Sir John A. MacDonald very proud by seeing his vision being realized.
Then, all of a sudden, my mind wanders off to the vision held by Great Father of India, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. This vision was to see India emerged as a secular state that provides equality, liberty, and fraternity to all citizens of India. This vision was subsequently enshrined in India’s constitution and it has not only survived over the past 65 years or so, but has also flourished in many ways. However, recent reports are suggesting that this vision of India continuing to be a secular state is now under a threat.
April 14 was Dr. Ambedkar Day and it was remembered and celebrated by all political parties.
As Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy is celebrated, I would also hope that these various leaders will renew their vows to make India a stronger, secular nation. By doing so, India will not only continue to emerge as a stronger democracy, but will also bring the world a one step closer to creating a global harmony and helping to achieve the visions of Dr. Ambedkar, Sir John A. MacDonald and other great visionaries.
