Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, also known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was one of the most influential leaders in modern Indian history. A visionary social reformer, economist, jurist, and the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Ambedkar dedicated his life to fighting social injustice and inequality. His life story is not only a powerful tale of personal struggle but also a reflection of the broader challenges faced by millions in India under the caste system.
In this article, we explore the history of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, from his early life and education to his groundbreaking contributions to Indian society and politics.
Early Life and Background
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, a small town in present-day Madhya Pradesh, India. He was the fourteenth child of Ramji Maloji Sakpal and Bhimabai. His family belonged to the Mahar caste, which was considered "untouchable" under the traditional Hindu caste hierarchy.
Although Ambedkar’s father served in the British Indian Army, which offered some social mobility, the stigma of caste discrimination severely affected Ambedkar’s early life. He faced numerous humiliations and exclusions during his school years, such as being made to sit separately and not being allowed to drink water from the same vessel as the upper-caste students.
Education and Academic Excellence
Despite facing systemic barriers, Ambedkar excelled in academics. He completed his matriculation in 1907 and went on to pursue a degree in economics and political science from Elphinstone College, University of Bombay. He was the first from his community to do so.
His academic brilliance earned him a scholarship from the Maharaja of Baroda, Sayajirao Gaekwad III, which enabled him to study abroad. In 1913, Ambedkar went to Columbia University in New York, where he earned a Master's degree in Economics in 1915 and later a PhD in 1927. He also studied at the London School of Economics and was called to the Bar at Gray's Inn in London.
These experiences exposed him to liberal and democratic ideals, deepening his commitment to social reform.
Fight Against Caste Discrimination
Upon returning to India, Ambedkar faced persistent discrimination despite his high qualifications. However, he chose to use his intellect and position to fight for the rights of the Dalits (formerly known as untouchables).
In 1920, he started a weekly publication called "Mooknayak" (Leader of the Voiceless) to raise awareness about the oppression of lower castes. He also founded organizations such as:
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Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha (1924): For the welfare of the socially excluded.
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Samaj Samata Sangh: To promote social equality.
One of the landmark events in this fight was the Mahad Satyagraha in 1927, where Ambedkar led a peaceful protest demanding Dalits’ right to drink water from a public tank in Mahad, Maharashtra. The movement was a major step toward challenging the caste-based segregation in public spaces.
Burning of Manusmriti
In the same year, 1927, Ambedkar publicly burned the Manusmriti, an ancient Hindu legal text, which he considered a symbol of caste-based discrimination. This act was both symbolic and revolutionary, sending a strong message against Brahmanical dominance and the rigid caste system.
Political Journey and Contributions
Formation of Political Parties
To give a political voice to the oppressed, Ambedkar formed several political organizations:
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Independent Labour Party (ILP) in 1936, which contested elections and raised issues related to workers and Dalits.
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Scheduled Castes Federation (SCF) in 1942, to represent the Dalits more directly.
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Republican Party of India (RPI) in 1956 (founded posthumously based on his vision).
Round Table Conferences
Ambedkar was invited to participate in the Round Table Conferences in London (1930–1932), which were aimed at discussing India’s constitutional future. He used the platform to argue for separate electorates for the Depressed Classes. This led to the controversial Poona Pact with Mahatma Gandhi in 1932, which resulted in reserved seats for Dalits in legislatures instead of separate electorates.
Architect of the Indian Constitution
After India gained independence in 1947, Ambedkar was appointed as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly. He played a pivotal role in shaping the Indian Constitution, which came into effect on January 26, 1950.
Key contributions of Ambedkar to the Constitution include:
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Establishing liberty, equality, and fraternity as foundational values.
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Abolishing untouchability (Article 17).
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Introducing affirmative action (reservations) for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
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Advocating for gender equality and civil liberties.
Ambedkar’s legal and constitutional work laid the foundation for a modern, secular, and democratic India.
Conversion to Buddhism
Towards the end of his life, Ambedkar became disillusioned with the Hindu caste system. After extensive study and introspection, he publicly converted to Buddhism on October 14, 1956, along with hundreds of thousands of his followers in Nagpur.
He believed that Buddhism offered a path of equality, compassion, and social justice, free from caste-based hierarchy. His conversion sparked a larger movement known as the Dalit Buddhist Movement.
Literary Contributions
Ambedkar was a prolific writer and thinker. Some of his most influential works include:
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Annihilation of Caste (1936): A strong critique of the caste system and Hindu orthodoxies.
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The Problem of the Rupee (1923): His doctoral thesis that analyzed the Indian monetary system.
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Who Were the Shudras? (1946): A historical analysis of caste formation.
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The Buddha and His Dhamma (1957): A posthumously published text outlining his understanding of Buddhist teachings.
These works continue to influence political thought, social activism, and academic research in India and beyond.
Death and Legacy
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar passed away on December 6, 1956, in Delhi. His death was mourned across the country, especially by the Dalit community, for whom he had been a messiah.
He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1990.
Today, Ambedkar's legacy is visible in multiple aspects:
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His birthday, April 14, is celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti, a public holiday in India.
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Statues and memorials across the country honor his contributions.
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Millions of Indians continue to draw inspiration from his life and teachings.
Conclusion
The history of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar is not just the biography of a great man—it is the chronicle of India’s battle against inequality and injustice. Through relentless effort, academic excellence, and moral courage, Ambedkar transformed the socio-political landscape of the country.
His message of "Educate, Agitate, Organize" continues to inspire generations of Indians to fight for social justice, dignity, and equality.
As the Father of the Indian Constitution and a champion of the marginalized, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's legacy remains timeless and ever-relevant in India’s journey toward a more inclusive and democratic society.
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