Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Former Minister of Law and Justice of India Biography, height, weight, Age , wife, children and family and many more

Biography of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar: Former Minister of Law and Justice of India

Introduction: Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was a prominent Indian social reformer, jurist, economist, and politician. He is best known for his pioneering efforts in the fight against the caste system and untouchability, as well as for his crucial role in the drafting of India's Constitution. As the former Minister of Law and Justice of India, Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions to India’s political, social, and legal landscape have left a lasting impact on the country. This biography delves into his personal and professional life, highlighting his achievements, struggles, and legacy.

Early Life and Education:

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, into a Dalit family. His early life was marked by discrimination, as he and his family faced the harsh realities of the caste system. Despite these challenges, Ambedkar excelled in academics. He completed his schooling and later attended Elphinstone College in Mumbai. His exceptional intelligence and perseverance earned him a scholarship to study at Columbia University in New York in 1913, where he earned a doctorate in economics. He further pursued studies at the London School of Economics and received another doctorate in law. Dr. Ambedkar’s education abroad was instrumental in shaping his views on social justice and equality.

Personal Life:

Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar was married twice in his lifetime. His first wife, Ramabai, passed away in 1935. He later married Dr. Savita Ambedkar in 1948, who supported him in his later years, especially in his social and political endeavors.

Family:

• Father: Ramji Maloji Sakpal
• Mother: Bhimabai Sakpal
• First Wife: Ramabai Ambedkar (married in 1906, died in 1935)
• Second Wife: Dr. Savita Ambedkar (married in 1948)
• Children: Dr. Ambedkar had a son, Yashwant, and a daughter named Indu.

Professional Life:

Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar's professional life was multifaceted. He initially worked as a professor of political economy at the Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics in Mumbai. He later entered politics and became the leader of the Dalit community, advocating for their rights and for social reform. Dr. Ambedkar was the architect of India’s Constitution and played a crucial role in drafting the legal framework of the newly independent country.

Contributions to Indian Society:

1. Social Reformer: Dr. Ambedkar was a tireless advocate for the rights of the Dalits (then referred to as "Untouchables"). He led several movements against untouchability and worked to uplift the marginalized sections of society.
2. Champion of Women’s Rights: He was a strong advocate for women's rights and fought for their education, property rights, and legal protection. He was instrumental in passing the Hindu Code Bill, which aimed to improve the condition of women in India.
3. Founder of the Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha: In 1924, Ambedkar established this organization to improve the social and educational status of Dalits.
4. Dalit Buddhist Movement: In 1956, Dr. Ambedkar converted to Buddhism, along with thousands of his followers, as a way to escape the rigid caste system and oppression faced by Hindus. His conversion led to the Dalit Buddhist movement in India.

Political Career and Role as the Law Minister:

Dr. Ambedkar played an important role in the political landscape of India, especially after the country gained independence. He was appointed as the first Minister of Law and Justice in independent India in 1947 by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.

• Constitution of India: As the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. Ambedkar's contributions were immense. He emphasized principles of justice, equality, and liberty. His commitment to abolishing untouchability, promoting social equality, and ensuring the protection of human rights for all citizens of India is evident in the Constitution.
• Advocate for Dalit Rights: During his tenure as the Law Minister, Dr. Ambedkar was dedicated to securing the legal rights of Dalits. He ensured that the Indian Constitution prohibited discrimination based on caste, creed, and religion.

Legacy and Recognition:

Dr. Ambedkar’s influence on Indian society cannot be overstated. He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1990. His birthday, April 14, is celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti across India, and he is regarded as a symbol of social justice and equality.

Key Achievements:

1. Architect of the Indian Constitution
2. Leader of the Dalit Movement
3. Champion of Human Rights and Women’s Rights
4. Founder of the Independent Buddhist Movement in India
5. Posthumous Recognition as a National Icon

Height and Weight:

• Height: Approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
• Weight: Dr. Ambedkar's exact weight is not known, but he was of average build.

Interesting Facts about Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar:

1. Ambedkar’s Education Abroad: Dr. Ambedkar was one of the first Indians to earn a doctorate in economics from Columbia University. His education abroad gave him a broader perspective on social justice and equality.
2. Supporter of Democracy: Dr. Ambedkar believed in democracy and worked to make India a democratic republic, free from caste-based oppression and exploitation.
3. His Role in the Hindu Code Bill: Dr. Ambedkar worked hard to pass the Hindu Code Bill, which aimed to give women equal rights in marriage, property, and divorce.
4. Dr. Ambedkar’s Last Speech: Dr. Ambedkar's final speech, delivered in 1956, was a powerful statement on the future of Buddhism in India and the need for social transformation.

Death:

Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar passed away on December 6, 1956, at the age of 65. His death marked the end of a remarkable life dedicated to social justice, equality, and the empowerment of the oppressed.

Conclusion:

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar’s life was a journey of struggle, sacrifice, and triumph. He fought relentlessly for the rights of the marginalized and worked to create a society where justice and equality prevailed. As the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, he laid the foundation for a modern, democratic India that continues to uphold his values of liberty, equality, and fraternity. His legacy lives on, inspiring millions of people across India and around the world.

Here are some more lesser-known and interesting facts about Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, apart from the previously shared details:

1. First Dalit to Earn a Doctorate: Dr. Ambedkar was the first person from the Dalit community to earn a doctorate in economics. His educational achievements, including his studies at Columbia University and the London School of Economics, were groundbreaking for someone of his background.

2. Influence of Buddhism: While Dr. Ambedkar is widely recognized for his role in drafting the Indian Constitution, his conversion to Buddhism in 1956 was one of the most significant aspects of his life. He believed that Buddhism was a path to liberation from caste-based oppression, and he led hundreds of thousands of Dalits to convert to Buddhism with him.

3. He Was the First Law Minister of Independent India: In 1947, Dr. Ambedkar became the first Law Minister of India in Jawaharlal Nehru's cabinet. He used this position to push forward the legal reforms, including the abolition of untouchability and the promotion of equality in India.

4. Symbol of Anti-Caste Struggles: Dr. Ambedkar is often considered the most influential leader in the anti-caste movement. He not only fought for the rights of Dalits but also championed the cause of other marginalized groups, such as women and tribals, making him a symbol of social justice for the oppressed.

5. Opposed the Partition of India: While Dr. Ambedkar was a prominent figure in the independence movement, he strongly opposed the partition of India. He believed that the division based on religion would lead to long-lasting divisions in the country. He was also the only major leader who warned against the dangerous consequences of partition.

6. Role in the Poona Pact: Dr. Ambedkar's role in negotiating the Poona Pact with Mahatma Gandhi in 1932 was historic. Although Gandhi had fasted in protest against separate electorates for Dalits, Dr. Ambedkar negotiated a compromise that gave Dalits reserved seats in the legislature.

7. Symbol of Education for the Marginalized: Ambedkar was deeply passionate about education and made it the cornerstone of his campaign for social reform. He believed that education was the key to social empowerment, and he encouraged the Dalit community to pursue education to uplift themselves.

8. Influence on Global Human Rights Movements: Dr. Ambedkar's ideas on equality, justice, and social reform not only influenced India but also gained international recognition. He has been cited by international scholars and human rights activists as one of the most important figures in advocating for the rights of marginalized communities.

9. Ambedkar’s Struggle for the Hindu Code Bill: Dr. Ambedkar's efforts to pass the Hindu Code Bill were controversial during his time. The bill sought to bring about reforms in Hindu personal laws, including granting women greater rights in marriage, inheritance, and divorce. Although the bill was eventually defeated, Ambedkar's push for women’s rights remains a significant part of his legacy.

10. He Was a Master of Multiple Disciplines: Dr. Ambedkar was not just a lawyer and social reformer, but also an economist, philosopher, and political scientist. He wrote extensively on a wide range of subjects, including economics, law, and history, leaving behind a wealth of intellectual work.

11. Ambedkar's Last Journey: After Dr. Ambedkar's death in 1956, his body was kept for public viewing in the city of Mumbai, where hundreds of thousands of people, including members of the Dalit community, gathered to pay their respects. His death led to a massive outpouring of grief, especially among Dalits, who saw him as their leader and protector.

12. Cultural Icon of the Dalit Movement: Dr. Ambedkar's iconic "blue cap" and his statue are widely regarded as symbols of the Dalit movement. The cap, often associated with his intellectual and legal prowess, has become a symbol of Dalit pride.

13. He Predicted the Rise of Dalit Politics in India: Dr. Ambedkar was one of the first leaders to predict that Dalit rights and issues would become central to Indian politics. His prediction came true, as Dalit politics became a significant force in India, especially after his death, with various political parties claiming his legacy.

These lesser-known facts provide a deeper understanding of Dr. Ambedkar's life, struggles, and the far-reaching impact he had on India's social, legal, and political landscape.