Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar Biography

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, architect of India’s Constitution, championed equality, social justice, and education for an inclusive society.

The Life and Legacy of Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar

Syllabus: Modern History (UPSC, HPPSC GS I)

Who was Dr. B.R. Ambedkar?

About

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was a prominent Indian jurist, economist, social reformer, and politician.
He was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.
His father, Subedar Ramji Maloji Sakpal, was a well-read man and a follower of Sant Kabir.

Education

Ambedkar earned his Bachelor’s degree from Bombay University and pursued higher studies at Columbia University in New York and the London School of Economics.

Contributions

1923: Founded the Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha for the welfare of the depressed classes.
1924: Started an association for the upliftment of the depressed classes.
1927: Launched the Bahishkrit Bharat newspaper and led the Mahad Satyagraha.
1930–1932: Participated in all three Round Table Conferences in London.
1932: Signed the Poona Pact with Mahatma Gandhi, abandoning the idea of separate electorates for the depressed classes.
1936: Formed the Independent Labour Party to safeguard the interests of the depressed classes.
1942: Appointed to the Executive Council of the Governor-General of India as Labour Member.
1946: Elected to the Constituent Assembly from Bengal.
1947: Became Chairman of the Drafting Committee, remembered as the Father of the Indian Constitution.
1947–1951: Served as India’s first Law Minister; resigned in 1951 over differences regarding the Hindu Code Bill.

Later Life and Legacy

Conversion to Buddhism: Later in life, Dr. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism.
Demise: Passed away on December 6, 1956; the day is commemorated as Mahaparinirvan Diwas.
Memorial: Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai serves as his memorial.
Honour: Awarded Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1990.

Major Works

Journals

Mooknayak (1920)
Bahishkrit Bharat (1927)
Samatha (1929)
Janata (1930)

Books

Annihilation of Caste
Buddha or Karl Marx
The Untouchables: Who are They and Why They Have Become Untouchables
Buddha and His Dhamma
The Rise and Fall of Hindu Women
Pakistan or The Partition of India¹

Organisations

Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha (1923)
Independent Labour Party (1936)
Scheduled Castes Federation (1942)

Relevance of Ambedkar in Present Times

Dr. Ambedkar’s ideas and contributions continue to shape India’s social and political landscape, especially in the fight against caste-based discrimination and the pursuit of social justice.
His vision for an inclusive, egalitarian, and democratic society, as enshrined in the Indian Constitution, remains vital to India’s development.
His emphasis on education as a means of empowerment is particularly relevant today as India aspires to become a global leader.

Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy is an integral part of India’s national identity, and his life continues to inspire generations.