Today, April 14th, 2025, the entire nation celebrates the 134th birth anniversary of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. A constitution maker, social reformer, and symbol of education, Ambedkar's contribution remains the foundation of Indian democracy and social justice. His thoughts, struggles, and principles empowered millions, securing their rights and identity. On his birthday, let's explore ten lesser-known facts about his life, inspiring and essential for every Indian to know.
1. India's First Law Minister
Dr. Ambedkar was appointed India's first Law Minister. This position served not just as a political role but also as a vehicle for social change. He drafted numerous legislative proposals that granted equal rights to Dalits, women, and marginalized communities.
2. Entrusted with Constitution Drafting
On August 29th, 1947, he was appointed Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution. He worked tirelessly to create a Constitution that not only maintained unity in diversity but also guaranteed justice, equality, and liberty to every citizen.
3. 'Ambedkar' Not the Original Surname
Few know his original surname was 'Ambavdekar,' derived from his ancestral village, Ambavde (Ratnagiri district). A school teacher, Mahadev Ambedkar, affectionately shortened it to 'Ambedkar,' a name etched in history.
4. Implemented 8-Hour Workday for Laborers
At the 1942 Indian Labor Conference, Dr. Ambedkar reduced laborers' working hours from 12 to 8. This decision was a milestone in the history of the Indian labor movement.
5. First Indian with Double Doctorates
He was the first person in South Asia to earn two doctorates in Economics—one from Columbia University and the other from the London School of Economics. This achievement solidified his status as a distinguished scholar.
6. Resigned as Minister for Women's Rights
He introduced the 'Hindu Code Bill' in Parliament, aiming to grant women equal rights in property and marriage. When the bill failed to pass, he remained steadfast in his principles and resigned as Law Minister.
7. Proficient in Nine Languages
Dr. Ambedkar was fluent in Hindi, Pali, Sanskrit, Marathi, English, Persian, French, German, and Gujarati. He also dedicated 21 years to the comparative study of major world religions.
8. First to Suggest State Reorganization
In his 1955 book, "Thoughts on Linguistic States," he advocated for the reorganization of states based on linguistic lines. This vision led to the creation of new states like Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand around the year 2000.
9. First Depiction of Buddha with 'Open Eyes'
Babasaheb was a skilled painter. He was the first to depict Lord Buddha with open eyes, breaking from the traditional portrayal with closed eyes.
10. Unique Contribution to Education
At Columbia University, he independently completed 29 courses in Economics. His dedication to education continues to inspire. He believed education is the weapon to change the world.
Inspiring Thoughts That Still Guide Us
• Educate yourselves, organize yourselves, and struggle.
• I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved.
• Life should be great rather than long.
• A great person is one who lives as a servant of society.
Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar's vision and struggles laid the social and constitutional foundation of India. His birth anniversary is not just a tribute but also an opportunity to internalize his ideals. Knowing, understanding, and embracing Babasaheb's legacy is the responsibility of every citizen.
