autobiography of ambedkar in english

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Dr Ambedkar : Life and Mission

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B.R. Ambedkar biography

Dr B.R. Ambedkar (1891 – 1956)

Ambedkar was also a prolific scholar, attending university in Mumbai, New York and London; he specialised in law, economics and political science, and made contributions to Indian economic thought. In 1956, shortly before his death, he converted from Hinduism to Buddhism encouraging many fellow ‘untouchables’ to also convert.

Ambedkar was born in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. He was the 14th child of Ramji Sakpal who was a Subedar (officer) in the British Indian Army.

His family were ranked as a Mahar (Dalit) ‘untouchable’ caste. At the time of his birth, those born in the Mahar caste were subject to great discrimination, with limited education and employment prospects. They were not allowed to share public water provision and often suffered very low standards of living, health and poor accommodation. The Mahars are mainly found in Maharashtra and comprise around 10% of the population.

However, as an officer in the British Indian army, his father lobbied for his children to be allowed to go to school. Ambedkar was allowed to attend, but because of great opposition from Brahmins and other upper classes, the untouchables were segregated and often not allowed in the classroom.

In his later writing “No peon, No Water.” Ambedkar later explained how he was not allowed to take water, without the school peon (person to do manual labour). It was an example of the discrimination and exclusion that untouchables often faced. However, his father was ambitious for his children and encouraged them to read both the Hindu classics and other literature to further their education.

The discrimination and segregation of being born into the Mahar caste had a lasting influence on Ambedkar’s outlook on Indian society and political life.

In 1896 his mother died, and he was raised by their paternal aunt in difficult financial circumstances. Of his 13 brothers and sisters, only Ambedkar succeeded in graduating to high school; it was quite a rarity for his Mahar caste. In 1897, he became the only ‘untouchable’ to be enrolled in Bombay high school. In 1907, he became the first ‘untouchable’ to enter an affiliated college of the University of Bombay. This achievement was widely celebrated by his Mahar caste and was given a public ceremony. This ceremony occurred despite Ambedkar’s father refusing to give permission, arguing such a celebration ‘would go to the young boy’s head.’

As was custom, in 1906, he was arranged to be married to a nine-year-old girl, Ramabai.

Ambedkar received a degree in economics and political science from Bombay University. As a talented scholar, in 1913, he gained a Baroda state scholarship to study at Columbia University, New York. Here he gained an M.A, presenting a thesis on Ancient Indian Commerce.

After New York, in 1916, he moved to London where he enrolled at the Bar at Gray’s Inn and also at the London School of Economics. By 1923, he was called to the Bar and had completed a Master’s degree in economics (1921) and a D.Sc. in economics (1923).

Ambedkar was a professional economist until 1921. He wrote an influential paper to the Hilton Young Commission which formed the basis of the Reserve Bank of India. (RBI). In his 1923 these ‘The problems of Rupee, it’s origins and solution’  – he studied the importance of price stability to the value of the Rupee. He also investigated how the Indian economy could successfully develop.

In 1917, he had to return to India to serve in the Baroda State military. However, his military career didn’t last very long. He quit and found work as a private tutor. He also tried to set up an investment consulting business, but soon lost clients when they found out about his ‘untouchable’ status.

In 1918, he became Professor of Political Economy at the Sydenham College in Bombay. He also went on to serve as a lawyer.

In the 1920s, Ambedkar became increasingly concerned and active about the plight of his fellow cast members. He became a high profile figure within Indian politics. He sought to improve education for the ‘outcastes’. In 1924, he founded the Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha – an organisation dedicating to improving the welfare of outcasts. Its founding principles were ‘Educate, Agitate and Organize.’

He also founded a newspaper called “Mooknayaka” (leader of the silent)

During the 1920s, he became more active in organising protests against discrimination. He inspired mass protests against ‘untouchability’ and for the right to draw water from the main public tank. He attacked elements of orthodox Hinduism – burning copies of Manusmrti (Laws of Manu) which he felt justified caste discrimination.

“For a successful revolution, it is not enough that there is enough discontent. What is required is a profound and thorough conviction of justice, necessity and importance of political and social rights.”

– Ambedkar, Political Science for Civil Services Main Examination, 2010

He also campaigned for ‘untouchables’ to be given admission to Hindu temples. In 1930, he led about 15,000 untouchables in a peaceful procession to gain admission to Kalaram Temple.

Ambedkar wrote prolifically on the subject of caste. He strongly criticised orthodox Hinduism and the caste system in particular. His book – The Annihilation of Caste – expressed these views most force ably.

“My study of the Caste problem involves four main points: (1) that in spite of the composite make-up of the Hindu population, there is a deep cultural unity; (2) that caste is a parcelling into bits of a larger cultural unit; (3) that there was one caste to start with; and (4) that classes have become Castes through imitation and excommunication.”

– Castes in India

He was also critical of Islam for the way he felt it justified slavery and the mistreatment of women.

“the Muslim Society in India is afflicted by the same social evils as afflict the Hindu Society. Indeed, the Muslims have all the social evils of the Hindus and something more. That something more is the compulsory system of purdah for Muslim women.”

– B.R. Ambedkar (1)

Separate Electorate

Eventually fearing conflict between orthodox Hindus and the Dalit’s, Ambedkar agreed with Gandhi to avoid a separate electorate. Instead, a certain number of seats were reserved for untouchables. This was known as the Poona Pact and drew Gandhi and Ambedkar closer politically. Though tensions between the two still remained. Ambedkar wanted independence, but he gave equal weighting to the amelioration of the untouchables and other marginalised groups in society.

“It was not enough that India should get Swaraj. It was more important in whose hands the Swaraj would be.”

– Ambedkar

In 1937, he formed the Independent Labour party to represent the untouchables in elections. They gained local success in the 1937 elections but fared less well in the 1947 elections.

Constitution of India

In 1947, after India’s independence, he was invited by the Congress government to play a significant role in drafting India’s new constitution. He was appointed Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee. He was also appointed first Law Minister.

Ambedkar prepared a constitution which protected a wide range of civil liberties for both the poor and women.

“The State shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them.”

– Article 15

Article 17 outlawed the practice of ‘untouchability’. The constitution also included affirmative action to reserve jobs for people from scheduled castes. The constitution was adopted in 1949.

WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens: JUSTICE, social, economic and political; LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; EQUALITY of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation;

– Constitution of India

Ambedkar was brought up in a Hindu culture and studied Hindu texts. However, he was critical of the caste aspect of Hinduism and frequently talked about his desire to leave his religion and encouraged others to do the same.

For a while he considered Sikhism. But, in October 1956, he announced his formal intention to convert to Buddhism. He studied Buddhism throughout his life and in the 1950s spent more time studying Buddhism, travelling to Sri Lanka and attending Buddhist conferences.

“The direct answer to this question is that I regard the Buddha’s Dhamma to be the best. No religion can be compared to it. If a modern man who knows science must have a religion, the only religion he can have is the Religion of the Buddha. This conviction has grown in me after thirty-five years of close study of all religions.”

– Ambedkar,  The Buddha and his Dharma

Dr._Ambedkar during his conversion

After his conversion, he oversaw the conversion of 500,000 of his followers to the Buddhist religion. It was one of the biggest mass conversions in India. He founded the Buddhist Society of India and has helped to revitalise Buddhism within India, the land of its birth.

Shortly after his conversion to Buddhism, he died in his sleep on 6 December 1956 at his home in Delhi. He suffered from diabetes and stress-related illness. He was given a Buddhist cremation, and over half a million people came to pay their respects.

Ambedkar left a powerful legacy for Indian culture, politics and society. His drafting of the Indian constitution placed great emphasis on equal rights and the overcoming of discrimination. His criticism of Hinduism has made him a controversial figure. But, in 2012, he was voted the greatest Indian by a national poll organised by History TV18 and CNN IBN. He gained nearly 20 million votes.

He has also received praise for his economic work. Nobel prize winner Amartya Sen said that his contribution in the field of economics ‘is marvellous and will be remembered forever.’

Citation: Pettinger, Tejvan .  “B.R. Ambedkar Biography”, Oxford, UK. www.biographyonline.net. Published 26th November 2014. Last updated 15 February 2019.

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14 Comments

Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar , one of the respected great man so I want know everything related to him

• January 17, 2019 12:14 AM
• By sangita Diwakar

I m great admirer of dr Ambedkar sir want to join all the discussion and interviews related to him and his work

• January 13, 2019 5:04 AM
• By Utsav Sharma

Nice biography of ambedkar

• December 09, 2018 3:15 PM

INDIA IS ONE OF THE GREAT COUNTRY AND DR. BR AMBEDKAR ALSO ONE OF THE GREAT PERSON, INSPIRED THANKS FOR GOOD ARTICLE……………..

• November 26, 2018 9:03 PM

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Dr. ambedkar life and mission.

Author: Keer, Dhananjay

Keywords: Life of B R Ambedkar, Biography of Dr Ambedkar

Publisher: A.V. Keer, Bombay

Description: This work by Dhananjay Keer is considered to be the first full-length, up-to-date, and authentic biography of Dr B R Ambedkar. Keer gives a detailed account of the life history of the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, starting from his early childhood. The author considers this book of biographical notes as thought-provoking and provocative to display the level of struggle and the constant hardwork for achieving human dignity and equality as experienced by Dr Ambedkar. Some of the chapters in this book are on his childhood and youth, self-development, war with Gandhiji, verdict on Hinduism, old age; descriptions of land, labour, and education; declaration of independence and shadow of Buddhism.

Source: Central Secretariat Library

Type: E-Book

Received From: Central Secretariat Library

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• Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Biography

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Information

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, also known as Baba Saheb Ambedkar, was born on April 14, 1891, at Mhow in Madhya Pradesh, India. He was a good student earning doctorates from both London University and Columbia University of London. He gained a reputation as a scholar for his research in law, economics, and political science. in his early carrier, he was an editor, economist, professor, and activist who was against the discrimination Dalits faced because of caste. Dr. B.R.Ambedkar's later career included participating in political activities.

Ambedkar History

Dr. B.R.Ambedkar was born in Mhow of Madhya Pradesh. His father was Ramji Makoji Sakpal, who was an army officer in the British India army. Dr. B.R.Ambedkar was the fourteenth son of his father. Bhimabai Sakpal was his mother. His family was of Marathi background from the town of Ambawade. Dr. B. R.Ambedtkar was born as a Dalit and he was treated as an untouchable. He was subjected to regular social and economic discrimination. Although Ambedkar attended school, he and other Dalit students were treated as untouchables. They were separated from another group of students from other caste and were not given attention by the teachers. They were even not allowed to sit with other students for their own drinking water.

He used to drink water with the help of the peon as he and other Dalit students were not allowed to touch anything. His father retired in 1894 and his mother passed away 2 years after they moved to Satara. Of all his brothers and sisters, Ambedkar was the only one who passed his examination and went to high school. Later in high school, his school, a Brahmin teacher, changed his surname from Ambadawekar, which was given by his father to Ambedkar in records. This shows the level of discrimination that was done on Dalits. Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar EducationIn 1897, Ambedkar became the only untouchable to get enrolled at the Elphinstone High School. In 1906, Ambedkar, who was 15 years old, married a 9 years old named Ramabai.

The marriage was done by the couple's parents as per the rituals. In 1912, he obtained his degree in political science and economics from Bombay University and was employed by the Baroda state government. In 1913, Ambedkar moved to the United States as he was awarded a scholarship for three years by Sayajirao Gaekwad three. The scholarship was designed to provide opportunities for post-graduate education at Columbia University in New York City. In 1915, he majored in Economics, Sociology, History, Philosophy, and Anthropology. In 1917, he completed his master's degree and wrote a thesis on "The problem of the rupee- its origin and solution," and in 1923, he completed a D.Sc in Economics, which was awarded by the University of London.

The birthday of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, or Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, is on April 14 as he was born on that day in Mhow, India, in the year 1891 and died on December 6, 1956, in New Delhi. His mother's name was Bhimabai and father's name was Ramji Sakpal. He was born in an army cantonment in Madhya Pradesh as his father was an army subedar. Once his father retired, they moved to Satara and that's where his mother passed away. His father remarried four years after the death of his mother and the family relocated to Bombay. When Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was 15 years old, he was married to Ramabai, who was a 9-year-old girl, in 1906. In 1912, the father of Ambedkar died in Bombay.

Ambedkar had a difficult time in his childhood because he always faced caste discrimination. He belonged to a Dalit family and Dalits were considered "untouchables," a low caste. When Ambedkar was in an army school, he faced discrimination there as well. Due to this, teachers usually made a separate arrangement for low caste students so that they are not mixed with high caste students like Brahmins. Sometimes, Ambedkar and other low caste students were even asked to sit outside the classroom by the teachers as they feared it might cause problems if low caste students were mixed with high-class students.

The problem of caste discrimination didn't end for Ambedkar even when he was enrolled in a local school in Satara. This discrimination seemed to be following him. When he came back from America, the King of Baroda appointed him as his defense secretary. Even being in such a high position, he was called 'untouchable' by his upper-class officials.

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.

Education Of Dr B. R. Ambedkar 

In 1908, Ambedkar passed his tenth class from the Elphinstone High School. He graduated from Bombay University in 1912 and his subjects included political studies and economics. Ambedkar was an intelligent student and cleared all his exams without much problem. Gaekwad ruler of, Sahyaji Rao III was so impressed with him that he gave a scholarship of 25 rupees per month to Ambedkar. Ambedkar used all that money to continue his studies outside India. He applied for Columbia University in New York to complete his master's degree in Economics.

He was selected in that university and completed his master's degree in 1915 and this is the time when he gave his thesis called 'Ancient Indian Commerce. In 1916, he started working on his new thesis, 'The problem of the rupee: Its origin and its solution' and this was the time when he applied for the London School of Economics and got selected. In this thesis, he was also helped by Governor Lord Sydenham. In Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics, he became a political science professor, but he decided to continue his further studies and went to England. He completed his Ph.D. degree in 1927 in Economics and was awarded a Doctorate by the University of Columbia in the same year.

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 defense secretary for the princely state of Baroda. As he was a Dalit, wor was not easy. He was ridiculed by the people and often ignored. After continuous caste discrimination, he quit his job as the defense secretary and took up jobs as a private tutor and accountant. He later established a consulting firm, but it failed to flourish. The reason has been 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 criticize 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 organization 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's which is the best example of not giving up on yourself even if the odds are against you.

FAQs on Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Biography

1. Why did Ambedkar Change his Name?

Dr. B.R.Ambedkar's original name was Sakpal, but his father changed his name to Ambadawekar, meaning he is from the village 'Ambadawe' in Ratnagiri district. His Brahmin teacher Krishnaji Keshav Ambedkar changed his surname from 'Ambadawekar' to 'Ambedkar' in the school records.

2. How Many Hours did Ambedkar Study?

Dr. B.R.Ambedkar was a social transformer and a great leader of our nation, but at the heart of his personality was his dedication. He used to spend eighteen hours studying at a stretch. He believed that education is the key to a person's growth.

3. Why did Dr. B.R Ambedkar Decide to Change his Religion?

Ambedkar decided to change his religion to escape the caste system, which was constantly propagated in Hinduism. He believed in religion with no divisions and he did not find his ideologies coexisting with what Hinduism was about. So in 1956, he decided to convert to Buddhism, which he considered the most scientific religion.

4. What was the thinking of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar?

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar or Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, was a broad-minded person as he had a very broad type of thinking. Ambedkar was selfless and always thought about others and was always against the caste system as he belonged to the family of Dalits who was considered as 'untouchables.' He always believed in one's freedom and not the society of caste.

5. Was Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar a freedom fighter?

He was a freedom fighter, one of his kind, as he didn't only want India's freedom from British rule, but he also wanted India to be free on an individual basis. He fought hard against the caste system and dedicated his whole life to Dalits, who were discriminated against very badly at that time. He wanted that all the people of India, irrespective of their caste, creed and color, get equal rights before the law.

• Ambedkar Speech
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• Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Writings & Speeches Vol. 1
• Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Writings & Speeches Vol. 2
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• Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Writings & Speeches Vol. 8
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• Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Writings & Speeches Volume 21
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• Who were the Shudras?
• Castes in India: Their Mechanism, Genesis and Development
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• Buddha Or Karl Marx – Dr. Ambedkar
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• Waiting for a Visa – Dr. Ambedkar
• Pakistan or Partition of India – Dr. Ambedkar
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• Administration and Finance Of The East India Company – Ambedkar
• Ranade Gandhi and Jinnah – Dr. Ambedkar
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Dr. B.R. Ambedkar : Biography & Life History

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (1891–1956)  popularly known as Babasaheb, was an Indian jurist, economist, politician and social reformer who inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement and campaigned against social discrimination against Untouchables (Dalits), while also supporting the rights of women and labour He was Independent India’s first law minister and the principal architect of the Constitution of India .

His Birth and Greatness Foretold

On April 14th, 1891 a son was born to Bhimabai and Ramji Ambadvekar . His father Ramji was an army officer stationed at Mhow in Madhya Pradesh – he had risen to the highest rank an Indian was allowed to hold at that time under British rule.

Cultivation of mind should be the ultimate aim of human existence.

His mother decided to call her son Bhim. Before the birth, Ramji’s uncle, who was a man living the religious life of a sanyasi, foretold that this son would achieve worldwide fame. His parents already had many children. Despite that, they resolved to make every effort to give him a good education.

Early Life and First School of Ambedkar

Two years later, Ramji retired from the army, and the family moved to Dapoli in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, from where they came originally. Bhim was enrolled at school when he was five years old. The whole family had to struggle to live on the small army pension Ramji received.

For a successful revolution it is not enough that there is discontent. What is required is a profound and thorough conviction of the justice, necessity and importance of political and social rights.

When some friends found Ramji a job at Satara, things seemed to be looking up for the family, and they moved again. Soon after, however, tragedy struck. Bhimabai , who had been ill, died. Bhim’s aunt Mira, though she herself was not in good health, took over the care of the children. Ramji read stories from the epics Mahabharata and Ramayana to his children, and sang devotional songs to them. In this way, home life was still happy for Bhim, his brothers and sisters. He never forgot the influence of his father. It taught him about the rich cultural tradition shared by all Indians.

The Shock of Prejudice – Casteism

Bhim began to notice that he and his family were treated differently. At high school he had to sit in the corner of the room on a rough mat, away from the desks of the other pupils. At break-time, he was not allowed to drink water using the cups his fellow school children used. He had to hold his cupped hands out to have water poured into them by the school caretaker.

Bhim did not know why he should be treated differently – what was wrong with him?Once, he and his elder brother had to travel to Goregaon, where their father worked as a cashier, to spend their summer holidays. They got off the train and waited for a long time at the station, but Ramji did not arrive to meet them. The station master seemed kind, and asked them who they were and where they were going.

A people and their religion must be judged by social standards based on social ethics. No other standard would have any meaning if religion is held to be necessary good for the well-being of the people.

The boys were very well-dressed, clean, and polite. Bhim, without thinking, told him they were Mahars (a group classed as ‘untouchables’). The station master was stunned – his face changed its kindly expression and he went away.Bhim decided to hire a bullock-cart to take them to their father – this was before motor cars were used as taxis – but the cart-men had heard that the boys were ‘untouchables’, and wanted nothing to do with them.

Finally, they had to agree to pay double the usual cost of the journey, plus they had to drive the cart themselves, while the driver walked beside it. He was afraid of being polluted by the boys, because they were ‘untouchables’.However, the extra money persuaded him that he could have his cart ‘purified’ later! Throughout the journey, Bhim thought constantly about what had happened – yet he could not understand the reason for it. He and his brother were clean and neatly dressed.

Yet they were supposed to pollute and make unclean everything they touched and all that touched them. How could that be possible?Bhim never forgot this incident. As he grew up, such senseless insults made him realise that what Hindu society called ‘ untouchability ’ was stupid, cruel, and unreasonable. His sister had to cut his hair at home because the village barbers were afraid of being polluted by an ‘untouchable’.

If he asked her why they were ‘untouchables’, she could only answer -that is the way it has always been.” Bhim could not be satisfied with this answer. He knew that -it has always been that way” does not mean that there is a just reason for it – or that it had to stay that way forever. It could be changed.

An Outstanding Scholar

At this time in his young life, with his mother dead, and father working away from the village where Bhim went to school, he had some good fortune. His teacher, though from a ‘high’ caste, liked him a lot. He praised Bhim’s good work and encouraged him, seeing what a bright pupil he was. He even invited Bhim to eat lunch with him – something that would have horrified most high caste Hindus.

The teacher also changed Bhim’s last name to Ambedkar – his own name.When his father decided to remarry, Bhim was very upset – he still missed his mother so much. Wanting to run away to Bombay, he tried to steal his aunt’s purse. When at last he managed to get hold of it, he found only one very small coin. Bhim felt so ashamed. He put the coin back and made a vow to himself to study very hard and to become independent.Soon he was winning the highest praise and admiration from all his teachers.

They urged Ramji to get the best education fro his son Bhim. So Ramji moved with his family to Bombay. They all had to live in just one room, in an area where the poorest of the poor lived, but Bhim was able to go to Elphinstone High School – one of the best schools in all of India.In their one room everyone and everything was crowed together and the streets outside were very noisy. Bhim went to sleep when he got home from school. Then his father would wake him up at two o’clock in the morning! Everything was quiet then – so he could do his homework and study in peace.

In the big city, where life was more modern than in the villages, Bhim found that he was still called an ‘untouchable’ and treated as if something made him different and bad – even at his famous school.

One day, the teacher called him up to the blackboard to do a sum. All the other boys jumped up and made a big fuss. Their lunch boxes were stacked behind the blackboard – they believed that Bhim would pollute the food! When he wanted to learn Sanskrit, the language of the Hindu holy scriptures, he was told that it was forbidden for ‘untouchables’ to do so. He had to study Persian instead – but he taught himself Sanskrit later in life.

Matriculation and Marriage

In due course, Bhim passed his Matriculation Exam. He had already come to the attention of some people interested in improving society. So when he passed the exam, a meeting was arranged to congratulate him – he was the first ‘untouchable’ from his community to pass it.Bhim was then 17 years old. Early marriage was common in those days, so he was married to Ramabai the same year.

He continued to study hard and passed the next Intermediate examination with distinction. However, Ramji found himself unable to keep paying the school fees. Through someone interested in his progress, Bhim was recommended to the Maharaja Gaekwad of Baroda.The Shahu Maharaja granted him a monthly scholarship.

With the help of this, Bhimrao (‘rao’ is added to names in Maharashtra as a sign of respect) passed his B.A. in 1912. Then he was given a job in the civil service – but only two weeks after starting, he had to rush home to Bombay. Ramji was very ill, and died soon afterwards. He had done all he could for his son, laying the foundations for Bhimrao ’s later achievements.

Studies in the USA and the UK

The Maharaja of Baroda had a scheme to send a few outstanding scholars abroad for further studies. Of course, Bhimrao was selected – but he had to sign an agreement to serve Baroda state for ten years on finishing his studies.

In 1913, he went to the USA where he studied at the world-famous Columbia University, New York. The freedom and equality he experienced in America made a very strong impression on Bhimrao. It was so refreshing for him to be able to live a normal life, free from the caste prejudice of India. He could do anything he pleased – but devoted his time to studying. He studied eighteen hours a day.

Visits to bookshops were his favourite entertainment!His main subjects were Economics and Sociology. In just two years he had been awarded an M.A. – the following year he completed his Ph.D. thesis. Then he left Columbia and went to England, where he joined the London School of Economics. However, he had to leave London before completing his course because the scholarship granted by the State of Baroda expired. Bhimrao had to wait three years before he could return to London to complete his studies.

Return to India – Nightmare in Baroda

So he was called back to India to take up a post in Baroda as agreed. He was given an excellent job in the Baroda Civil Service. Bhimrao now held a doctorate, and was being trained for a top job. Yet, he again ran into the worst features of the Hindu caste system. This was all the more painful, because for the past four years he had been abroad, living free from the label of ‘untouchable.’

No one at the office where he worked would hand over files and papers to him – the servant threw them onto his desk. Nor would they give him water to drink. No respect was given to him, merely because of his caste.He had to go from hotel to hotel looking for a room, but none of them would take him in. At last he had found a place to live in a Parsi guest house, but only because he had finally decided to keep his caste secret.He lived there in very uncomfortable conditions, in a small bedroom with a tiny cold-water bathroom attached.

He was totally alone there with no one to talk to. There were no electric lights or even oil lamps – so the place was completely dark at night.Bhimrao was hoping to find somewhere else to live through his civil service job, but before he could, one morning as he was leaving for work a gang of angry men carrying sticks arrived outside his room. They accused him of polluting the hotel and told him to get out by evening – or else! What could he do? He could not stay with either of the two acquaintances he had in Baroda for the same reason – his low caste. Bhimrao felt totally miserable and rejected.

Bombay – Beginning Social Activity

He had no choice. After only eleven days in his new job, he had to return to Bombay. He tried to start a small business there, advising people about investments – but it too failed once customers learned of his caste.In 1918, he became a lecturer at Sydenham College in Bombay. There, his students recognised him as a brilliant teacher and scholar.

At this time he also helped to found a Marathi newspaper ‘Mook Nayak’ (Leader of the Dumb) to champion the cause of the ‘untouchables’. He also began to organise and attend conferences, knowing that he had to begin to proclaim and publicise the humiliations suffered by the Dalits – ‘the oppressed’ – and fight for equal rights. His own life had taught him the necessity of the struggle for emancipation.

Completion of Education – Leader of India’s Untouchables

In 1920, with the help of friends, he was able to return to London to complete his studies in Economics at LSE. He also enrolled to study as a Barrister at Gray’s Inn. In 1923, Bhimrao returned to India with a Doctorate in Economics from the LSE – he was perhaps the first Indian to have a Doctorate from this world-famous institution. He had also qualified as a Barrister-at-Law .

Back in India, he knew that nothing had changed.His qualifications meant nothing as far as the practice of Untouchability was concerned – it was still an obstacle to his career. However, he had received the best education anyone in the world could get, and was well equipped to be a leader of the Dalit community. He could argue with and persuade the best minds of his time on equal terms. He was an expert on the law, and could give convincing evidence before British commissions as an eloquent and gifted speaker. Bhimrao dedicated the rest of his life to his task .

He became known by his increasing number of followers – those ‘untouchables’ he urged to awake – as Babasaheb Ambedkar . Knowing the great value and importance of education, in 1924 he founded an association called Bahiskrit Hitakarini Sabha . This set up hostels, schools, and free libraries. To improve the lives of Dalits, education had to reach everyone. Opportunities had to be provided at grass roots level – because knowledge is power.

Leading Peaceful Agitation

In 1927 Babasaheb Ambedkar presided over a conference at Mahad in Kolaba District. There he said: -It is time we rooted out of our minds the ideas of high and low. We can attain self-elevation only if we learn self-help and regain our self-respect.”Because of his experience of the humiliation and injustice of untouchability, he knew that justice would not be granted by others. Those who suffer injustice must secure justice for themselves.

The Bombay Legislature had already passed a Bill allowing everyone to use public water tanks and wells. (We have seen how Bhim was denied water at school, in his office, and at other places. Public water facilities were always denied to ‘untouchables’ because of the superstitious fear of ‘pollution.’)Mahad Municipality had thrown open the local water tank four years earlier, but so far not one ‘untouchable’ had dared to drink or draw water from it.

Babasaheb Ambedkar led a procession from the Conference on a peaceful demonstration to the Chowdar Tank . He knelt and drank water from it. After he set this example, thousands of others felt courageous enough to follow him. They drank water from the tank and made history. For many hundreds of years, ‘untouchables’ had been forbidden to drink public water.

When some caste Hindus saw them drinking water, they believed the tank had been polluted and violently attacked the Conference, but Babasaheb Ambedkar insisted violence would not help – he had given his word that they would agitate peacefully. Babasaheb Ambedkar started a Marathi journal Bahishkrit Bharat (‘The Excluded of India’).

In it, he urged his people to hold a satyagraha (non-violent agitation) to secure the right of entry to the Kala Ram Temple at Nasik. ‘untouchables’ had always been forbidden to enter Hindu temples. The demonstration lasted for a month. Then they were told they would be able to take part in the annual temple festival. However, at the festival they had stones thrown at them – and were not allowed to take part. Courageously, they resumed their peaceful agitation. The temple had to remain closed for about a year, as they blocked its entrance.

Round Table Conferences – Gandhi

Meanwhile, the Indian Freedom Movement had gained momentum under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. In 1930, a Round Table Conference was held by the British Government in London to decide the future of India. Babasaheb Ambedkar represented the ‘untouchables ’.

He said there: -The Depressed Classes of India also join in the demand for replacing the British Government by a Government of the people and by the people… Our wrongs have remained as open sores and have not been righted although 150 years of British rule have rolled away. Of what good is such a Government to anybody?”Soon a second conference was held, which Mahatma Gandhi attended representing the Congress Party.

Babasaheb Ambedkar met Gandhi in Bombay before they went to London. Gandhi told him that he had read what Babasaheb said at the first conference. Gandhi told Babasaheb Ambedkar he knew him to be a real Indian patriot.At the Second Conference, Babasaheb Ambedkar asked for a separate electorate for the Depressed Classes . -Hinduism”, he said, -has given us only insults, misery, and humiliation.”

A separate electorate would mean that the ‘untouchables’ would vote for their own candidates and be allotted their votes separate from the Hindu majority.Babasaheb was made a hero by thousands of his followers on his return from Bombay – even though he always said that people should not idolise him. News came that separate electorates had been granted. Gandhi felt that separate electorates would separate the Harijans from the Hindus.

The thought that the Hindus would be divided pained him grievously. He started a fast, saying that he would fast unto death.Only Babasaheb Ambedkar could save Gandhi’s life – by withdrawing the demand for separate electorates. At first he refused, saying it was his duty to do the best he could for his people – no matter what.

Later he visited Gandhi, who was at that time in Yeravda jail. Gandhi persuaded Babasaheb that Hinduism would change and leave its bad practices behind. Finally Babasaheb Ambedkar agreed to sign the Poona Pact with Gandhi in 1932. Instead of separate electorates, more representation was to be given to the Depressed Classes. However, it later became obvious that this did not amount to anything concrete.

In the Prime of His Life

Babasaheb had by this time collected a library of over 50,000 books, and had a house named Rajgriha built at Dadar in north Bombay to hold it. In 1935 his beloved wife Ramabai died. The same year he was made Principal of the Government Law College, Bombay.Also in 1935 a conference of Dalits was held at Yeola.

Babasaheb told the conference: -We have not been able to secure the barest of human rights… I am born a Hindu. I couldn’t help it, but I solemnly assure you that I will not die a Hindu.” This was the first time that Babasaheb stressed the importance of conversion from Hinduism for his people – for they were only known as ‘untouchables’ within the fold of Hinduism.During the Second World War, Babasaheb Ambedkar was appointed Labour Minister by the Viceroy.

Yet he never lost contact with his roots – he never became corrupt or crooked. He said that he had been born of the poor and had lived the life of the poor, he would remain absolutely unchanged in his attitudes to his friends and to the rest of the world.The All-India Scheduled Castes Federation was formed in 1942 to gather all ‘untouchables’ into a united political party.

Architect of the Indian Constitution

After the war Babasaheb Ambedkar was elected to the Constituent Assembly to decide the way jthat India – a country of millions of people – should be ruled. How should elections take place? What are the rights of the people? How are laws to be made? Such important matters had to be decided and laws had to be made.

The Constitution answers all such questions and lays down rules.When India became independent in August 1947, Babasaheb Ambedkar became First Law Minister of Independent India . The Constituent Assembly made him chairman of the committee appointed to draft the constitution for the world’s largest democracy.All his study of law, economics, and politics made him the best qualified person for this task.

A study of the Constitutions of many countries, a deep knowledge of law, a knowledge of the history of India and of Indian Society – all these were essential. In fact, he carried the whole burden alone. He alone could complete this huge task.After completing the Draft Constitution, Babasaheb fell ill.

At a nursing home in Bombay he met Dr. Sharda Kabir and married her in April 1948. On November 4, 1948 he presented the Draft Constitution to the Constituent Assembly , and on November 26, 1949 it was adopted in the name of the people of India. On that date he said: -I appeal to all Indians to be a nation by discarding castes, which have brought separation in social life and created jealousy and hatred.”

Later Life – Buddhist Conversion

In 1950, he went to a Buddhist conference in Sri Lanka. On his return he spoke in Bombay at the Buddhist Temple. -In order to end their hardships, people should embrace Buddhism.

I am going to devote the rest of my life to the revival and spread of Buddhism in India.” Babasaheb Ambedkar resigned from the Government in 1951 . He felt that as an honest man he had no choice but to do so, because the reforms so badly needed had not been allowed to come into being.For the next five years Babasaheb carried on a relentless fight against social evils and superstitions.

On October 14, 1956 at Nagpur he embraced Buddhism. He led a huge gathering in a ceremony converting over half a million people to Buddhism . Presently the place is known as “Deekshabhoomi”. He knew that Buddhism was a true part of Indian history and that to revive it was to continue India’s best tradition. ‘Untouchability’ is a product only of Hinduism.

Death Of Babasaheb Ambedkar

Only seven weeks later on December 6, 1956 Babasaheb Ambedkar died at his Delhi residence. His body was taken to Bombay. A two-mile long crowd formed the funeral procession. At Dadar cemetery that evening, eminent leaders paid their last respects to him. The pyre was lit according to Buddhist rites. Half a million people witnessed it. Presently the place is known as “Chaitya Bhoomi”.

Thus ended the life of one of India’s greatest sons. His was the task of awakening India’s millions of excluded and oppressed to their human rights. He experienced their suffering and the cruelty shown to them. He overcame the obstacles to stand on an equal footing with the greatest men of his time. He played a vital role in forming modern India through its Constitution.His work and mission continue today – we must not rest until we see a truly democratic India of equal citizens living in peace together.

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• My Autobiography | Autobiography of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar | Ambedkar's Challenges, Ambitions, and Accomplishment

My Autobiography | Autobiography of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar | Ambedkar's Challenges, Ambitions, and Accomplishment   

• ISBN : 9789355627629
• Language : English
• Publisher : Prabhat Prakashan
• Edition : 1st
• Publication Year : 20214
• Pages : 220
• Binding Style: Soft Cover

More Information

• Author Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
• ISBN 9789355627629
• Language English
• Publisher Prabhat Prakashan
• Edition 1st
• Publication Year 20214
• Number of pages 220
• Binding Style Soft Cover
• Weight 250 Grams

Description

"Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's autobiography is a powerful memoir chronicling his extraordinary life as one of India's greatest social reformers and visionaries. It takes readers on a transformative journey through his early struggles against caste discrimination, his pursuit of education and his relentless fight for social justice and human rights. The book offers insights into Ambedkar's experiences as a student, lawyer, scholar and as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution.

Born into an Untouchable family, Ambedkar faced oppression but overcame obstacles to become a renowned jurist, economist and politician. He spearheaded the Modern Buddhist Movement, campaigned against discrimination against Dalits, women, and labor, and served as Independent India's first law minister. With multiple doctorates from prestigious universities, he contributed significantly to the fields of law, economics and political science.

Ambedkar's autobiography is a testament to his unwavering commitment to ensuring the rights and dignity of every citizen. It serves as a guiding light, inspiring readers to perpetuate the quest for compassion, empathy, and equality, while reminding us of the sacrifices that shaped India’s history."

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