Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow Nagar military cantonment, situated in the Indore district of Madhya Pradesh. He was the fourteenth and youngest child of Ramji Maloji Sakpal and Bhimabai. His entire life was a constant fight against the untouchability and caste discrimination in India. In later years of his life, he embraced Buddhism but remained dedicated to advocating for the rights of Dalits.  

Ambedkar Jayanti

On the day of Ambedkar Jayanti, various events are organized across the country to celebrate the life and contributions of Dr Ambedkar. Today, let’s learn nine interesting facts about his him.

Interesting facts

•    Dr Ambedkar faced several challenges to receive education. However, he persevered against adversities and earned multiple degrees in his lifetime. 

•    Known as Bhimrao in his childhood, he later gained fame as Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar and was proficient in nine languages by the age of 21.

•    Ambedkar earned an impressive 9 degrees in his lifetime, and he was also the first Indian Dalit to pursue a PhD in Economics abroad.

•    Notably, he was the first Dalit student admitted to Elphinstone College and later pursued a career in law, serving as the Principal of Mumbai Law College for two years.

•    Advocating for labour rights, Ambedkar campaigned to reduce factory work hours from 12-14 hours to 8 hours per day.

•    Ambedkar played a pivotal role in introducing the Ashok Chakra to the Indian flag.

•    Ambedkar served as the Chairman of the drafting committee of Indian constitution.

•    Known for his foresight and intelligent arguments, he made significant contributions to socio-economic spheres. Ambedkar was a great writer and orator, and his speeches often left a lasting impression on the public. 

•    He embraced Buddhism in 1956, leading hundreds of Dalit families to also adopt Buddhism and renounce Hinduism.

Also read: Inspiring Quotes by Dr BR Ambedkar