Ambedkar Jayanti is observed every year on April 14 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, fondly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar. A jurist, economist, social reformer, and politician, he is best remembered as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. On this day, people pay tribute to his legacy through floral offerings, candle lighting, and cultural programs.

The day is a public holiday in many Indian states, with government offices, schools, and colleges remaining closed. Ambedkar is celebrated for his lifelong commitment to Dalit rights and social equality.

Who was Babasaheb Ambedkar?

Ambedkar was a distinguished scholar with doctorates in Economics from Columbia University and the London School of Economics. Using his deep understanding of law and economics, he challenged social discrimination and championed equal rights for all. Notably, he opposed the creation of separate electorates for untouchables, advocating instead for inclusive social reform.

In a historic move on October 14, 1956, Ambedkar, a member of the Mahar caste, converted to Buddhism in Nagpur, alongside 500,000 followers. Through this act and his lifelong work, he led the fight against untouchability and promoted the social upliftment of Dalits.

As the principal drafter of the Indian Constitution, Ambedkar broke barriers of caste-based privilege, encouraged education and empowerment for marginalized communities, and challenged entrenched social hierarchies maintained by Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas.

Inspirational quotes by Babasaheb Ambedkar:

1. “I like the religion that teaches liberty, equality, and fraternity.”
2. “If I find the Constitution being misused, I shall be the first to burn it.”
3. “So long as you do not achieve social liberty, whatever freedom is provided by the law is of no avail to you.”
4. “Law and order are the medicine of the body politic, and when the body politic gets sick, medicine must be administered.”
5. “I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved.”
6. “Men are mortal. So are ideas. An idea needs propagation as much as a plant needs watering. Otherwise, both will wither and die.”
7. “We must stand on our own feet and fight as best as we can for our rights. So, carry on your agitation and organise your forces. Power and prestige will come to you through struggle.”