BR Ambedkar was one of the greatest leaders of India, as well as an international icon of equality, justice and human rights. Ambedkar restructured India’s social and political fabric with his impactful ideas and reforms. Father of the Indian Constitution, he dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of Dalits and oppressed communities. He has influenced the democracy, economy, and education of modern India. Ambedkar believed that every human being deserves education, liberty and equality.

Who was BR Ambedkar?

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, often called Babasaheb Ambedkar, was one of India’s greatest leaders, social reformers, economists, and the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. He is remembered for his lifelong struggle against social discrimination, caste inequality, and his strong efforts to build a just and equal society. The table below contains complete personal details of BR Ambedkar, including birth information, education, books, and religion.

BR Ambedkar Biography

BR Ambedkar was born into a Dalit family that faced severe caste discrimination. Despite these hardships, he excelled in school and received support from progressive teachers and patrons. His intelligence earned him the Baroda State Scholarship, which allowed him to study abroad.

Key Stages of His Life

• Education Abroad
  Ambedkar completed his Master’s and PhD from Columbia University, where he studied economics, politics, and sociology. Later, he studied law at Gray’s Inn in London and completed a D.Sc. from the London School of Economics—an extraordinary achievement.
  
• Return to India
  After returning, he worked as a lawyer and professor but soon dedicated himself completely to fighting caste discrimination.
  
• Social Movements
  He led many movements such as:
  • Mahad Satyagraha (to fight for water rights)
  • Temple entry movements
  • Movements for equality and dignity
    
• Drafting the Constitution
  As Chairman of the Drafting Committee, he played the biggest role in writing the Constitution of India, which guarantees equality, liberty, and fundamental rights to all.
  
• Later Life
  He embraced Buddhism in 1956, rejecting the caste system of Hindu society. His final years were dedicated to writing The Buddha and His Dhamma.
  
• Legacy
  Ambedkar is honored globally. Statues like the Statue of Equality and the Statue of Social Justice celebrate his contribution to humanity.

BR. Ambedkars Contribution to Society

BR Ambedkar’s contribution to society is unprecedented in modern India. He reformed every aspect of social life.

1. Abolishing the Caste System
   • Demanded rights and equality for Dalits
   • Attacked untouchability by law, activism, and education
   • Led many social justice movements and equal access to public spaces
2. Establishing Equality Through the Constitution
   • Secured Fundamental Rights
   • Protected the rights of backward classes
   • Included laws prohibiting discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender
3. Social Reforms
   • Worked for the rights of laborers and just working conditions
   • Demanded basic human dignity
   • Motivated people to rise through education and self-respect
4. A Global Visionary
   • His ideas on democracy, religion, and human rights are admired worldwide
   • Known as the epitome of equality and social transformation
   • BR Ambedkar Contribution to Education 
   • BR Ambedkar Contribution for Women

BR Ambedkar Contribution for Women

BR Ambedkar was a pioneer in women’s empowerment.

• Hindu Code Bill:
  He fought for women’s legal rights, including:
  • Right to property
  • Right to divorce
  • Equal inheritance
  • Right to adopt children
• Women’s Education: Promoted girls’ education as essential for progress.
• Employment and Safety: Introduced labor laws for women’s safety and equal opportunities.
• Social Freedom: Advocated for women’s dignity, independence, and equality under the Constitution.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books

Visit PW Store

Why Did Bhimrao Ambedkar Convert to Buddhism?

Ambedkar converted because he believed Buddhism offered equality, peace, and dignity.

• Rejection of Caste: He believed Hinduism supported caste and untouchability.
• Human Values: Buddhism promotes compassion, morality, and equality.
• Spiritual Freedom: He felt Buddhism aligned with modern, scientific thinking.
• Mass Conversion Event: On 14 October 1956, he embraced Buddhism with millions of followers in Nagpur.

Ambedkar Death

BR Ambedkar died on 6 December 1956 in Delhi. His death is remembered as Mahaparinirvan Diwas, a day of respect and remembrance. His legacy continues through the Constitution, social movements, and millions who follow his teachings

Ready to boost your UPSC 2026 preparation? Join PW’s UPSC online courses today!

DOWNLOAD PDF