Babasaheb Ambedkar Babasaheb Ambedkar Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar fondly remembered as Babasaheb, was one of the most towering figures in Indian history. He was a jurist, social reformer, and key architect of the Indian Constitution. Born on April 14, 1891, into the Dalit communitysure win ph, a historically marginalized group in India, Ambedkar dedicated his life to fighting for social justice and equality. He championed the rights of the oppressed and is revered as the ‘Father of the Indian Constitution’ for his instrumental role in its creation. He was the 14th child, the last of his parents, Ramji Maloji Sakpal and Bhimabai Sakpal. His contributions to building modern India are unparalleled. On the occasion of Republic Day, it is essential to delve into his life, his ideals, and the legacy he left behind.
B.R. Ambedkar: Early Life and Educationlucky timeB.R. Ambedkar: Early Life and Education B.R. Ambedkar: Early Life and EducationBorn on April 14, 1891, in Mhow (now Dr Ambedkar Nagar) in Madhya Pradesh, Dr Ambedkar belonged to the Mahar caste, a community regarded as "untouchable" under the rigid caste system of the time. Despite the oppressive social environment, his father’s emphasis on education and his own determination helped him rise above societal barriers.
Throughout his schooling, he was cursed with untouchability. Following graduation, he was selected as a scholar to study in the United States, which was a watershed moment in his life. During his three years at Columbia University, he took 29 economics classes, 11 history courses, six sociology courses, and five philosophy courses before getting his MA and PhD in 1915 and 1916, respectively.
He subsequently completed his education in London, where he was accepted into Gray's Inn for Law and earned a DSc from the LSE, becoming one of the most educated Indians of his time. Despite having to return to India, he eventually moved to the United Kingdom and earned his Bar-at-Law and DSc degrees. He also studied at Bonn University in Germany for a while.
After returning to India in 1935-36, he wrote "Waiting for a Visa," a 20-page autobiographical narrative on his experiences with untouchability. The book is being used as a textbook at Columbia University.
Champion of Social Justice Dr. Ambedkar : Champion of Social Justice Dr. Ambedkar : Champion of Social JusticeDr. Ambedkar dedicated his life to the eradication of social inequalities. He was a relentless advocate for the rights of the oppressed and worked tirelessly to dismantle the caste system that had plagued Indian society for centuries.
One of his significant contributions was his leadership in the Dalit movement. Through various organizations, such as the Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha and later the Scheduled Castes Federation, he fought for the social, political, and economic empowerment of Dalits. His fiery speeches, writings, and legislative efforts laid the groundwork for many progressive reforms in India.
The Mahad Satyagraha of 1927 marked a pivotal moment in Ambedkar's political thinking. Leading a group of Dalits to drink water from Chavdar Lake, a public water source, he started the Dalit emancipation campaign. Ambedkar highlighted that their action was more than just drinking water; it was also about declaring their humanity and equality. This idea is echoed by Article 15 of the Constitution, which outlaws discrimination based on religion, race, or caste in the use of public wells, tanks, and bathing ghats. Perhaps no one expected it to become part of the Constitution at the time.
Ambedkar: Architect of the Indian Constitution"This series is not just about the two teams playing; it's about reviving the spirit of hockey in Delhi. We hope this will inspire more young players from the region to take up the game," Harmanpreet stated in a press release issued by Hockey India.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey expressed his enthusiasm and stated: "This bilateral series against Germany will be a remarkable showcase of world-class hockey. Both India and Germany have a rich history in the sport, and this series will give fans an opportunity to witness an intense competition between two of the most formidable teams in the world.
Ambedkar: Architect of the Indian Constitution Ambedkar: Architect of the Indian ConstitutionDr BR Ambedkar is considered the father of the Indian Constitution. Mahatma Gandhi had envisioned that the principal architect of the Indian Constitution would be a scholar from the lower classes. As a result, he convinced prominent leaders Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel to designate Ambedkar as chairman of the drafting committee. Ambedkar's extraordinary knowledge, erudition, intellectual prowess, and extensive reading prepared him to deal with the different revisions offered during the drafting process.
When modifications were debated in the Constituent Assembly (CA), Ambedkar spoke eloquently, persuading the Assembly while adhering to democratic principles. The Constitution of India, adopted on January 26, 1950, is a testament to his vision of a just, equitable, and inclusive society. Ambedkar’s insistence on social democracy as the foundation of political democracy remains a cornerstone of India’s constitutional ethos.
BR Ambedkar, a constitutional specialist, has examined the constitutions of over 60 countries. He drafted a text that gave constitutional protections and a wide variety of civil liberties for citizens, such as religious freedom, the removal of untouchability, and the prohibition of all types of discrimination.
Fought for Women’s RightsBR Ambedkar advocated for broad economic and social rights for women and obtained support for establishing a system of job reservations in the government services, schools, and universities for members of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and the other backward classes. His efforts were evident in the drafting of the Hindu Code Bill, which sought to provide equal property rights and other progressive reforms for women.
Conversion to BuddhismIn 1956, disillusioned with the caste oppression inherent in Hinduism, Dr. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism, along with thousands of his followers. His conversion was not merely a personal act but a profound socio-political statement, advocating a path of equality and liberation.
Legacy and InfluenceDr. Ambedkar : Legacy and Influence Dr. Ambedkar : Legacy and InfluenceDr. Ambedkar passed away on December 6, 1956, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire millions. His contributions are commemorated annually on Ambedkar Jayanti on April 14 and Constitution Day (Samvidhan Diwas) on November 26. Institutions like the Parliament House in India and international bodies recognize his monumental influence on human rights and social justice.
Today, his teachings are more relevant than ever. In a world grappling with inequalities, his vision of an inclusive society serves as a guiding light. Schools, universities, and movements globally continue to draw inspiration from his work.
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