As India commemorates the 61st anniversary of the passing of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, he is remembered as a revered figure and a trailblazer in the fight against social injustice. After overcoming numerous barriers, Ambedkar rose to become the first law minister of independent India and was instrumental in crafting the country's now-famous constitution. His legacy continues to inspire millions as the driving force behind the Dalit Buddhist movement and his contributions to Indian society.
Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar: A Trailblazer in India's Fight Against Social Injustice
Background
Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, fondly known as Babasaheb, was born on April 14, 1891, into an untouchable Mahar caste in Maharashtra, India. Despite facing widespread social discrimination and poverty, Ambedkar excelled in his studies and became the first Dalit (formerly untouchable) to receive a doctorate degree.
Ambedkar's life was marked by a relentless struggle against the caste system and untouchability. He launched the Dalit movement and fought tirelessly for the rights of India's marginalized communities. He also played a pivotal role in India's independence struggle and was appointed as the first law minister in the newly independent India.
Contributions to India
Ambedkar's most significant contribution was the drafting of India's Constitution. As the chairman of the Constituent Assembly, he ensured that the Constitution enshrined fundamental rights for all citizens, regardless of caste or religion. He also introduced provisions to protect and promote the interests of historically marginalized groups.
Besides his work on the Constitution, Ambedkar advocated for social and economic equality. He founded the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) to represent the interests of Dalits and other marginalized communities. He also campaigned for land reforms and labor rights.
Recognition and Legacy
Today, Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar is revered as a national hero in India. His teachings and principles continue to inspire millions, particularly among the Dalit community. His birthday, April 14th, is celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti and is a public holiday in many states of India.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What was Ambedkar's vision for India?
Ambedkar envisioned an India where all citizens enjoy equal rights and opportunities, regardless of their caste, creed, or gender. He believed in a just and equitable society where social discrimination and untouchability are eradicated.
2. What is the significance of Ambedkar's conversion to Buddhism?
Ambedkar converted to Buddhism in 1956 along with lakhs of his followers. This conversion was a symbolic rejection of the caste system and assertion of self-respect. He viewed Buddhism as a religion that promotes equality and compassion.
3. How has Ambedkar's legacy influenced India's governance?
Ambedkar's principles have shaped India's Constitution and policies. The Constitution includes provisions for affirmative action, which aims to redress historical discrimination experienced by Dalits and other marginalized groups. Additionally, various government programs and schemes are dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of these communities.
4. What is the current status of Dalits in India?
While significant progress has been made, Dalits in India still face discrimination, social exclusion, and economic disparities. They remain underrepresented in education, employment, and political representation. Efforts are ongoing to address these issues and achieve a more inclusive and just society.
5. How can we honor Ambedkar's legacy today?
To honor Ambedkar's legacy, we can:
In a powerful speech, Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai highlighted the essential role of human dignity in the Constitution and the judiciary's responsibility to uphold it. He emphasized that dignity forms the very core of fundamental rights and has been consistently upheld by the Supreme Court in landmark judgments. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla echoed this sentiment, stating that it is crucial for the government and judiciary to work together to deliver justice to the people.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin will be attending the grand celebration of Mupperum Vizha, which marks the birth anniversary of party founder CN Annadurai, social reformer Periyar, and DMK's founding day. Several prestigious awards, including the Periyar Award for Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, will be presented during the event, which has been designed like a fortress with a capacity to seat one lakh people. The stage is dominated by portraits of Chief Minister Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, along with banners highlighting the achievements of the Tamil Nadu government.
The Vantara zoological rescue and rehabilitation centre, established by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, was under scrutiny by the Supreme Court following allegations of irregularities. On 15 September 2025, the Court accepted the findings of the special investigation team (SIT) in a "sealed cover," concluding that there were no violations of various laws and regulations. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh expressed admiration for the justice system's rare display of efficiency in this case, but also raised questions about the use of sealed covers in court proceedings.
The District Administration, in collaboration with the Department of Urban Development & Housing, has officially kicked off the Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 campaign in Ziro, India. The initiative aims to promote mass participation in cleanliness and waste management activities, with the goal of making Ziro a model of hygiene and environmental stewardship. The launch event, attended by government officials and members of the public, also saw the administration taking the Swachhata Pledge to reaffirm their commitment to a "Clean India, Green India". Stay tuned for upcoming activities and events leading up to Gandhi Jayanti on October 2.
In a dramatic turn of events, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was stopped from accessing flood-hit villages on the India-Pakistan border due to safety concerns. A three-week-long investigation into allegations against Reliance Foundation's Vantara wildlife centre found no evidence of wrongdoing, prompting the Supreme Court to close the case. Forest officials in Madhya Pradesh are seeking answers from an IRS officer and his wife, who are accused of building a resort in an ecologically sensitive zone. Stay updated with these and other news stories on the Indian Express.
Rahul Gandhi, who was on a visit to flood-hit villages in Amritsar and Gurdaspur, was stopped by police from crossing the Ravi river to the "zero line" villages on the Indo-Pak border. The Congress leader had spent the day assessing damage and meeting with victims before being told it was unsafe to attempt the boat crossing. This comes after the Supreme Court closed a case involving allegations against the Reliance Foundation's wildlife rescue centre in Gujarat. Meanwhile, forest officials have sought clarification from an IRS officer and his wife for allegedly building a hotel/resort in an ecosensitive zone at Panna Tiger Reserve. Stay updated with breaking news on our live blog on Instagram.
Global leaders take to social media to send well wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday. With the upcoming national election and ongoing tensions with neighboring countries, world leaders hope for continued success and prosperity for both Modi and the nation. India's growing presence on the global stage is recognized and celebrated by leaders across the world, showing the significance and influence of the country's political landscape.
Today, September 17, marks the birthday of India’s Prime Minister and influential global leader, Narendra Modi. As he turns another year older, people from all over the world are sharing warm wishes, heartfelt messages, and inspiring quotes to honor his dedication and leadership to the nation. With a dominating presence on social media, PM Modi's birthday images are the perfect way to extend your wishes and celebrate his special day.
As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates his 75th birthday, world leaders, including former US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, sent messages of congratulations and appreciation. In their messages, they praised PM Modi for his leadership and his role in strengthening India's position on the global stage. In a phone call, President Trump and PM Modi also discussed important global issues and their commitment to further enhancing India-US relations.
On his 75th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received warm wishes and praise from President Droupadi Murmu and leaders across party lines. Murmu praised Modi for instilling a culture of achieving great goals in the country and wished for his ongoing good health and leadership. Other leaders, like Yogi Adityanath and Nitish Kumar, also thanked Modi for his contributions to India's progress and development. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and her cabinet colleagues also participated in a blood donation camp organized as part of the BJP-led city government's 'Sewa Pakhwada' to commemorate the PM's birthday.