Hello dear friends,

Every year on April 14th, India reverently observes Ambedkar Jayanti, celebrating the life of a man who transformed not only the legal framework of India but also the social conscience of a nation.

While many know Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and a tireless crusader against caste oppression, there are layers to his legacy that often remain untold.

On this auspicious day, let us uncover some lesser-known but equally inspiring facts about this extraordinary visionary.

1. Ambedkar Was the First Indian to Earn a Doctorate in Economics Abroad

Though often remembered as a legal mind, Dr. Ambedkar was an accomplished economist. He was the first Indian to earn a PhD in Economics from Columbia University in 1927.

His thesis, The Problem of the Rupee, was so insightful that it laid the intellectual foundation for the creation of the Reserve Bank of India in 1935.

2. Multilingual Mastery

Dr. Ambedkar was not just a man of law and letters, but also a linguistic genius. He had command over multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Persian, Pali, French, German, Marathi, Hindi, and English.

His deep study of Pali and Buddhist scriptures enabled him to interpret the teachings of the Buddha in a revolutionary light, leading to his historic conversion to Buddhism in 1956.

3. A Passion for Library and Learning

Ambedkar was an avid bibliophile. At one point, he had collected over 50,000 books, making his personal library one of the largest in the world.

He once said, “I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved,” emphasizing the importance of education not just for Dalits but for women and marginalized groups.

4. Played a Key Role in Water and Labour Reforms

Few know that Dr. Ambedkar was also the father of India’s water policy. As the Member-in-Charge of Labour, he introduced several labour welfare measures, including working hour limitations, equal pay, maternity benefits, and the establishment of the Central Water Commission.

He laid the early blueprints for the Damodar Valley and Hirakud Dam projects.

5. Designed the Indian Flag’s Ashoka Chakra

Ambedkar was deeply involved in the symbolism of Indian identity. It was under his suggestion that the Ashoka Chakra, symbolizing the eternal wheel of law and dharma, was incorporated into the Indian National Flag.

This was a nod to India’s Buddhist heritage and a subtle stand against orthodoxy.

6. Rejected Gandhi’s Caste-Based Social Reform Approach

Contrary to popular belief, Ambedkar often challenged Mahatma Gandhi on caste issues. While Gandhi focused on reform within Hinduism, Ambedkar believed in the complete annihilation of the caste system and termed it as an institution beyond repair.

Their ideological differences led to many heated debates, yet both men shared the vision of an egalitarian India.

7. Conversion to Buddhism: A Historic Act of Defiance

Ambedkar’s conversion to Navayana Buddhism along with millions of followers was not merely spiritual—it was a political revolution.

By embracing a faith rooted in equality and rationalism, he gave his community a new identity free from caste shackles.

A Timeless Legacy

As we celebrate Ambedkar Jayanti today, let’s not just recall the towering figure on currency notes or statues.

Let us remember the man who studied relentlessly, fought tirelessly, and gave us a vision of India where liberty, equality, and fraternity are not mere ideals, but lived realities.

Let Babasaheb’s legacy continue to inspire us to challenge injustice, embrace knowledge, and walk the path of unity and equality.

Jai Bhim! Happy Ambedkar Jayanti!

BE HAPPY… BE ACTIVE… BE FOCUSED… BE ALIVE

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Categories: infotainment

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