PHNOM PENH: On 23 April 2023, around 150 runners from members of Indian Diaspora, Cambodia and other nations enthusiastically participated in a 5km run to promote equality, brotherhood, humanity, liberty, dignity and love. The Run for Equality was held to commemorate the 132nd birthday of B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of India’s constitution and a celebrated civil rights leader.

The run began at Wat Botum Park and featured Cambodian actor and singer Batham Oun-better known as Sai- whose “Run with Sai” association helped organize the event with the Indian Embassy. After the run, participants were invited to learn about the life of Dr. Ambedkar through a photo exhibition.

Indian ambassador to Cambodia, Devyani Khobragade, made a speech hailing Dr. Ambedkar as a visionary social reformer, whose teachings on equality, justice, and exclusivity continue to inspire and guide us towards a more just society. At the end of the event, the ambassador handed out certificates of participation to the crowd alongside Sai.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cambodia and India, whose AKAM initiative aims to celebrate India’s history, culture and achievements.