Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as B.R. Ambedkar, was a visionary leader, social reformer, and the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. He dedicated his life to fighting for equality, social justice, and the upliftment of the oppressed.
Early Life and Education
- Born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow (Madhya Pradesh) in a Dalit family, Ambedkar faced severe discrimination from a young age.
- Despite facing hardships, he excelled in academics and became one of the first Dalits to study abroad.
- He earned multiple degrees from prestigious institutions like Columbia University (USA) and the London School of Economics (UK).
Fight Against Caste Discrimination
- Ambedkar strongly opposed untouchability and caste-based discrimination.
- He led Dalit movements demanding equal rights, access to public places, and education.
- He launched newspapers like Mooknayak and Bahishkrit Bharat to raise awareness.
Role in Drafting the Indian Constitution
- After India gained independence in 1947, Ambedkar was appointed Chairman of the Drafting Committee for the Indian Constitution.
- He ensured that the Constitution guaranteed equality, freedom, and fundamental rights for all citizens.
- He played a key role in the abolition of untouchability (Article 17) and introduced reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).
Conversion to Buddhism
- In 1956, Ambedkar, along with thousands of followers, converted to Buddhism as a protest against caste discrimination.
- He promoted Buddhist principles of equality and non-violence.
Legacy and Impact
- He is honored as the Father of the Indian Constitution.
- His birthday, April 14, is celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti.
- He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1990.
- His ideas continue to inspire movements for social justice, equality, and human rights.
Famous Quotes
“I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved.”
“Be educated, be organized, and be agitated.”