Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, into a Dalit (formerly “untouchable”) family. Despite belonging to the lowest strata of society, he went on to become one of the greatest minds India has ever produced.
From his early childhood, Ambedkar faced harsh discrimination. He wasn’t allowed to sit in class with upper-caste children or drink water from the same source. But he refused to accept this as his destiny. His brilliance in studies earned him scholarships, and he went on to study at Columbia University (USA) and the London School of Economics, earning multiple doctorates in law, economics, and political science — an exceptional feat at the time.
When India gained independence, Dr. Ambedkar was chosen as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution of India. He envisioned a nation where liberty, equality, and fraternity would guide its future. He strongly advocated for reservation policies, abolition of untouchability, and women’s rights.
Despite facing opposition, he continued his fight for dignity and justice. Later in life, disillusioned by caste discrimination, he embraced Buddhism along with millions of his followers, sparking a major social movement.
Legacy
Dr. Ambedkar’s contribution to building modern India is unparalleled. He not only gave the country its Constitution but also gave the oppressed a voice. Today, he is remembered as the Father of the Indian Constitution, and his legacy continues to inspire movements for equality and justice.
