Dr B. R. Ambedkar Short Biography

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, fondly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was a visionary leader, social reformer, and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. Born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, he faced severe caste discrimination but overcame these challenges through his remarkable academic achievements. A staunch advocate for social equality and justice, Ambedkar dedicated his life to fighting caste-based oppression and uplifting marginalised communities.

This article aims to provide a concise yet insightful biography of Dr. Ambedkar, highlighting his early life, key contributions, and enduring legacy. This short biography serves as an inspiration for those seeking to learn about his pivotal role in shaping modern India.

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Know About Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar's History

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, into a Dalit family. His father, Ramji Makoji Sakpal, served as an army officer in the British-Indian army, while his mother, Bhimabai Sakpal, was a homemaker. Bhimrao was the fourteenth child of his parents. The family originally hailed from Ambawade, a town in present-day Maharashtra.

Childhood Discrimination and Education

As a Dalit, Ambedkar experienced significant social and economic discrimination from an early age. At school, he and other Dalit children were segregated from students of higher castes. They were denied the same privileges, including equal seating arrangements and access to drinking water. Teachers rarely paid attention to them, and they often relied on a peon to provide water since they weren’t allowed to touch communal supplies. Despite these challenges, Ambedkar was the only one among his siblings to advance to high school.

Name Change and Early Achievements

While in high school, one of his Brahmin teachers altered his surname from Ambadawekar to Ambedkar in the school records, reflecting the caste-based discrimination prevalent at the time. Nonetheless, Ambedkar excelled academically. In 1897, he became the first Dalit student to enrol at Elphinstone High School.

Marriage and College Education

In 1906, at the age of 15, Ambedkar married Ramabai, who was just 9 years old at the time—a marriage arranged by their parents in accordance with prevailing customs. In 1912, Ambedkar graduated from Bombay University with a degree in political science and economics. He then took up a position with the Baroda state government, marking the start of his professional career.

Higher Studies and International Achievements

In 1913, Ambedkar received a scholarship from Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Baroda to pursue postgraduate studies at Columbia University in New York. He earned a master’s degree in 1915, majoring in Economics, Sociology, History, Philosophy, and Anthropology. He later completed his thesis, “The Problem of the Rupee: Its Origin and Solution,” and in 1923, obtained a D.Sc in Economics from the University of London.

Continuing Discrimination Despite Success

Ambedkar’s return to India did not end the caste-based prejudice he faced. Despite his advanced degrees and significant accomplishments, he continued to be treated as an untouchable by upper-caste officials, even when serving as the defence secretary for the King of Baroda.

Later Life and Legacy

Ambedkar’s experiences of discrimination fueled his lifelong fight against the caste system. He became a prominent leader and advocate for social reform, dedicating his life to ensuring equality for Dalits and other marginalised groups. His contributions to India’s social and political landscape continue to inspire generations.

Ambedkar’s Involvement during Independence

Ambedkar was involved in campaigning and negotiation of India's Independence. After Independence, he became the chairman of the drafting committee of the Indian constitution. After India's Independence, he was the first minister of law and justice and is considered to be the architect of the constitution of India. In 1956 he converted to Buddhism, resulting in the mass conversion of Dalits. In 1948, Ambedkar suffered from diabetes. After fighting diabetes for almost seven years, Ambedkar passed away in his sleep on December 6 1956 at his home.

Achievements of Dr B. R. Ambedkar

• Ambedkar played a key role in the formation of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in 1935. Back in 1955, he was the first person to propose the partition of Madhya Pradesh and Bihar for better government. He also wanted to make Sanskrit the Indian union's official language and he took part in the 'Lok Sabha' election twice but failed to win on both occasions. 'Waiting for a Visa,' his autobiography, is used as a textbook at Columbia University. He was opposed to the principle of employment and constituency reservation and didn't want the system to exist at all. 

• He was the first Indian to earn a Ph.D. degree outside of India. Ambedkar was the one who pushed for a reduction in India's working hours from 14 to eight hours a day. He was a vocal opponent of the Indian constitution's 'Article 370,' which granted the state of Jammu and Kashmir special status. 

• In 1916, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar worked as the defence secretary for the princely state of Baroda. As he was a Dalit, work was not easy. He was ridiculed by the people and often ignored. After continuous caste discrimination, he quit his job as the defence secretary and took up jobs as a private tutor and accountant. 

• He later established a consulting firm, but it failed to flourish. The reason was that he was a Dalit. He finally got a job as a teacher at the Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics in Mumbai. As Ambedkar was a victim of caste discrimination, he thrived on uplifting the pitiable state of the untouchables in society.

•  He founded a weekly journal called "Mooknayak," which enabled him to criticise the beliefs of the Hindus. He was passionate about eradicating the practice of caste discrimination in India which led him to establish "Bahishkrit Hitakarni Sabha."

• The main goal of the organisation was to provide education to the backward classes. In 1927, he continuously worked against untouchability. He followed the footsteps of Gandhi and led a Satyagraha movement. The untouchables were denied access to the main source of drinking water and entry in Temples. 

• He fought for the rights of the untouchables. In 1932, the "Poona Pact" was formed that allowed reservation for the depressed class in the regional legislative assembly and central council states. In 1935, he founded the "Independent labor party," which secured fourteen seats in the Bombay election.

• In 1935, he published books such as 'The Annihilation of Caste,' which questioned orthodox Hindu beliefs, and the very next year, he published another book by the name 'Who Were the Shudras?' in which he explained how the untouchables were formed. After India's Independence, he served on the board of the defense advisory committee and as the minister for labor for the 'viceroy's executive council.'His dedication towards the work earned him the chair of India's first law minister. He was the first chairman of the drafting committee of the Constitution of India.

• He also established the finance committee of India. It was through his policies the nation progressed both economically and socially. In 1951, 'The Hindu Code Bill' was proposed to him, which he later rejected and resigned from the Cabinet. He contested for the seat of Likh Sabha but was defeated. He was later appointed to the Rajya Sabha and remained a member of the Rajya Sabha until his death in 1955.

Thoughts and Opinions

• B.R. Ambedkar was a leading social reformer and an activist who dedicated his entire life to the betterment of the Dalits and other socially backward classes of India. Ambedkar continuously fought for the eradication of caste discrimination that had spread like a disease in Indian society. 

• As he was born in a socially backward family, Ambedkar was a Dalit who was a victim of caste discrimination and inequality. However, against all odds, Ambedkar became the first Dalit to complete higher education. 

• He then went on and completed college and got a doctorate in economics from London University. He entered politics entirely, aiming to fight for the rights of the backward classes and against the inequality practiced in society. 

• After India became independent, he went on to become the first law minister of free India and the chief architect of the 'Constitution of India.'Later in 1956, he converted to Buddhism, as he considered it to be 'the most scientific religion.'

• Within 2 months of the conversion anniversary, Ambedkar died of diabetes in 1956.ConclusionBhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Baba Saheb, was a jurist, politician, economist, writer, editor. He was a Dalit who was a usual subject to caste discrimination. He was not allowed to eat with other caste children or even drink water at school. 

• His story is the best example of determination and showcases how education can change the fortune of anyone. A child who was subject to caste discrimination went on to become a man who was the architect of Independent India's constitution. A story is written in heaven which is the best example of not giving up on yourself even if the odds are against you.

Conclusion:

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's life exemplifies resilience, education, and dedication to equality. As the architect of the Indian Constitution and a champion for social justice, he transformed India's socio-political landscape. His legacy continues to inspire efforts toward empowerment and inclusivity, making him a symbol of progress and change.