“In ‘Castes in India’ Ambedkar provides a pioneering analysis of the origin and development of caste in India. The chapter begins by defining what caste is and explaining its origins from Ambedkar’s perspective, as well as examining the role caste plays in the oppression of women.
Ambedkar’s causal explanation of women’s oppression marks a departure from other significant political works of the time, including Gandhi’s, which largely neglect the oppression of women as a critical form of social inequality. Ambedkar’s ‘Castes in India’ serves as a vital corrective to the traditional canon in political philosophy due to the valuable insights it offers.
Dr. Ambedkar’s study of the caste problem involves :
(1) in spite of the composite make-up of the Hindu population, there is a deep cultural unity;
(2) caste is a parcelling into bits of a larger cultural unit;
(3) there was one caste to start with and
(4) classes have become castes through imitation and excommunication.”
————————————————————————————————————————
“The Deccan Sabha of Poona invited me to deliver an address on the 101st birthday of the late Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade, celebrated on January 18, 1943. Though initially hesitant, I accepted the invitation despite knowing my views on social and political issues might not be well-received.
I had no intention of publishing the address as such speeches often have little lasting value. However, persistent friends insisted on its publication, believing it should not be forgotten. Thus, the printed address differs slightly from the delivered one due to time constraints and paper shortages.
The publication’s circumstances are unusual, with reviews harshly criticizing the address even before its release. This is mainly an issue for the publishers, but it also underscores the address’s lasting value. My criticism of Mr. Gandhi and Mr. Jinnah, which some interpret as hatred, has been particularly controversial. However, my critiques are rooted in a desire for political settlement and justice, not personal animosity.
The Congress Press, which consistently misrepresents and criticizes me, is the primary source of condemnation. I believe this animosity reflects broader societal prejudices. Nonetheless, I remain committed to my duties, prioritizing India’s well-being over idolization of any individual. True nationalism requires recognizing that the country is greater than any single person.
– Dr. B. R. Ambedkar”
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.