Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar is one of the most significant figures in Indian history. He was the architect of the Indian Constitution and a social reformer who envisioned a society without discrimination. Every year the anniversary of his birth on April 14th is celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti. There is much to learn from the man who gave us the Constitution and played an important role in policies that uplifted women, underprivileged and Dalits.
Here are 5 things that we should always keep in mind:
1. Importance of education
Ambedkar was a brilliant student who did not allow the societal pressures to keep him from getting educated. Ambedkar was the first to finish college in a society that barred the ‘untouchables’ from education. He had a reputation for being a voracious reader. After winning a scholarship to Mumbai University and a state scholarship that helped him go abroad, Ambedkar emerged with a PhD in Economics. He was the first law minister of the nation and the chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee.
2. Not letting others intimidate you
Because he belonged to a lower caste, Ambedkar was not allowed to drink water from the same well or sit in the same class as his upper-caste peers. The caste system’s grasp on the society was absolute during his time; however, that didn’t deter him from pursuing his goals. He got his education and became one of the most important figures in the history of the country. Dr. B R Ambedkar was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1990- the country’s highest civilian honour.
3. Vision
Ambedkar was a true visionary. He understood that the stranglehold of the caste system and outdated religious practices would only hold society back. He said that the measure of a society’s progress lies in the progress women have made in society. He advocated for equality and equal pay for equal work. He also authored several books that formed the basis of movements that secured human rights.
4. Giving back to society
Being the educated powerhouse that he was, Ambedkar spearheaded causes for equality and liberty for the oppressed classes. His ideas were not only theoretical but also put into practice in the form of the reservation system for the Dalits to bridge the gap of inequality.
5. Purpose and responsibility
To advance in life, one needs a purpose which also brings with it a sense of responsibility. Coming from a lower caste, Ambedkar took it upon himself to change things and liberate the oppressed. His vision, belief in education and reform made it possible for whole sections of the society to elevate themselves in life.
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