Dr B.R. Ambedkar, also known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was one of India’s most prominent social reformers. And a champion of the rights of the marginalized communities in the country. His life and teachings have inspired generations of people to fight against social injustice and inequality. In this article, we will take a look at the lifestyle of Dr B.R. Ambedkar and the values he lived by.
Early Life and Education
Dr B.R. Ambedkar was born on April 14, 1891, in the town of Mhow in the Central Provinces (now Madhya Pradesh). He was the 14th child of his parents, and his family faced financial struggles. Despite these challenges, Ambedkar showed an early interest in learning and was a bright student. Maharaja Gaekwad of Baroda recognized his potential and provided him with a scholarship to study at Elphinstone College in Bombay, where he excelled in his studies. Ambedkar went on to receive a degree in economics and political science from Bombay University, after which he pursued further studies in economics at Columbia University in New York and the London School of Economics which is also part of a scholarship from Maharaja Gaekwad of Baroda. His dedication to education helped him become one of India’s most prominent social reformers and a leading voice for the rights of marginalized communities.
Personal Life
Dr Ambedkar was married twice. His first wife, Ramabai, passed away in 1935. He later married Dr Savita Ambedkar, who supported him in his social and political activities. They had two sons, Yashwant and Rajratna.
Dr Ambedkar was a prolific writer and authored several books, including “Annihilation of Caste,” “And the Buddha and His Dhamma.” Who Were the Shudras? The book argues that the Shudras were not originally part of the Hindu caste system. but was later incorporated into it as a means of social control. Dr Ambedkar contends that the Shudras were originally a non-Aryan tribe that lived in India before the arrival of the Aryans. He also argues that the Shudras were originally a warrior caste, but were later downgraded to a lowly status as a means of maintaining the social dominance of the upper castes.
The conclusion of the book is that the Shudras were subject to social, economic, and political oppression by the upper castes and that their status as a lower caste was not based on any inherent qualities or characteristics, but rather on the prejudices and biases of the upper castes. Dr Ambedkar believed that the only way to eliminate caste-based discrimination and oppression was to abolish the caste system altogether and create a more equal and just society. He also founded several organizations, including the Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha, which worked towards the welfare of the untouchables.
Values and Beliefs
Dr Ambedkar believed in the power of education and the need to create a society based on justice and equality. He believed that the caste system was a social evil and worked tirelessly to eliminate it. He also emphasized the importance of individual liberty and the need for people to be free from oppression and discrimination.
Dr Ambedkar was a firm believer in democracy and the rule of law. He believed that the Constitution was the bedrock of a democratic society and worked towards creating a system that protected the rights of all citizens.
Conclusion
Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s life and teachings continue to inspire millions of people in India and around the world. His emphasis on education, political empowerment, and economic independence for marginalized communities remains relevant today. He was a champion of justice, equality, and individual liberty, and his legacy continues to shape the social and political landscape of India.
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