Archive · 14 Jan 2026
16-Year Campaign to Rename Marathwada University
A long time ago, some people wanted to change the name of a university to honor a great leader named BR Ambedkar, who fought for equality.
Many people supported this idea, but some others didn't like it.
There were big protests and even some people got hurt.
After 16 years, the university's name was changed to include Ambedkar's name.
Every year, people remember this struggle to make sure everyone is treated fairly.
This event is important because it shows how people can come together to fight for what they believe in, even when it's hard.
The Namantar Andolan was a 16-year campaign to rename Marathwada University after BR Ambedkar, starting in 1978.
The campaign faced opposition from upper-caste groups and leaders like Bal Thackeray.
Key events included the Long March in 1979 and the Jail Bharo Andolan between 1978 and 1994.
The struggle ended in a compromise on January 14, 1994, with the university being renamed Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University.
The campaign is commemorated annually on January 14, with events in Aurangabad and Nagpur, to honor the sacrifices made by Dalit protestors.
- Who
- Dalit activists and supporters
- What
- A 16-year campaign to rename Marathwada University after BR Ambedkar
- When
- 1978 to 1994, with annual commemorations on January 14
- Where
- Marathwada region, Maharashtra, India
- Why
- To honor BR Ambedkar's contributions and challenge caste-based discrimination
- University
- Marathwada University
- Renamed To
- Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University
- Campaign Duration
- 16 years (1978-1994)
- Key Event
- Long March in 1979
- Memorial
- Namantar Shahid Smarak in Nagpur
- Commemoration Date
- January 14 each year
- Opposition Leaders
- Bal Thackeray, feudal-caste groups
- Dalit Sub-castes Involved
- Mahars, Mang community, Muslims