Who Were The Shudras | Buddha Or Karl Marx Combo Set

Who Were The Shudras | Buddha Or Karl Marx Combo Set

₹500

312 Pages
AUTHOR :- Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
ISBN :- 978-9352207657

In “Who Were Shudras,” Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embarks on a profound journey into the heart of caste oppression, unearthing the origins and injustices faced by one of India’s most marginalized communities.

Born out of his own lived experience of untouchability and bolstered by meticulous historical research, Ambedkar challenges the traditional narratives that have long justified the subjugation of the Shudra caste.

This groundbreaking work not only redefines the historical identity of the Shudras but also critiques the religious and social mechanisms that have perpetuated their discrimination.

Ambedkar’s insightful analysis reveals how the caste system, sanctioned by religious texts and rituals, has not only hindered the socio-economic development of the Shudras but also entrenched a division that affects the very fabric of Indian society.
With compelling arguments for reformation, including the upliftment through education, economic empowerment, and political representation, Ambedkar sets the stage for a future where caste divisions can be transcended.

“Who Were Shudras” is not just a scholarly indictment of caste inequality; it is a call to action, a manifesto for change that continues to inspire millions in the fight against social injustice.

Ambedkar’s vision for a casteless society, articulated with both passion and precision, makes this book an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of Indian society and the path towards a more inclusive and equitable nation.

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“‘Buddha or Karl Marx,’ written by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, explores a comparative study of the ideas proposed by Gautama, the Buddha and Karl Marx. The text was first published in 1987 as part of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Writings and Speeches, Vol. 3, and later reprinted by the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation in 2014.
Here are some key points from the essay:

1. Dr. Ambedkar attempts to investigate the failings of Indian society, particularly in regards to caste discrimination, by comparing the teachings of Buddha and Marx.

2. Ambedkar highlights how the Buddha’s teachings focus on individual enlightenment and the abolition of private property, which could lead to a more equal society akin to modern-day communism.

3. He contrasts this with Marx’s theory of ‘Scientific Socialism,’ which involves violent means such as the dictatorship of the proletariat.

4. The essay delves into the means proposed by both figures, with Buddha emphasizing personal ethics and moral conduct, while Marx advocates for revolutionary violence and dictatorship.

5. Ambedkar ultimately argues that Buddha’s teachings, emphasizing a casteless society and individual enlightenment, are more relevant and appropriate for India compared to Marx’s ideas.

While Dr. Ambedkar’s opinions are prevalent in the text and may seem biased towards Buddhist teachings, the essay provides an intriguing perspective on the comparison between Buddha and Marx. It encourages readers to rethink both Marxist discourse and Buddhist philosophy in the context of equality and societal change.”

About Author	Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (14 April 1891 – 6 December 1956) was an Indian jurist, economist, social reformer and political leader who headed the committee drafting the Constitution of India from the Constituent Assembly debates, served as Law and Justice minister in the first cabinet of Jawaharlal Nehru, and inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement after renouncing Hinduism. After graduating from Elphinstone College, University of Bombay, Ambedkar studied economics at Columbia University and the London School of Economics, receiving doctorates in 1927 and 1923, respectively, and was among a handful of Indian students to have done so at either institution in the 1920s. He also trained in the law at Gray's Inn, London. In his early career, he was an economist, professor, and lawyer. His later life was marked by his political activities; he became involved in campaigning and negotiations for partition, publishing journals, advocating political rights and social freedom for Dalits, and contributing to the establishment of the state of India. In 1956, he converted to Buddhism, initiating mass conversions of Dalits. In 1990, the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, was posthumously conferred on Ambedkar. The salutation Jai Bhim (lit. "Hail Bhim") used by followers honours him. He is also referred to by the nickname Babasaheb, meaning "Respected Father".

About Author

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (14 April 1891 – 6 December 1956) was an Indian jurist, economist, social reformer and political leader who headed the committee drafting the Constitution of India from the Constituent Assembly debates, served as Law and Justice minister in the first cabinet of Jawaharlal Nehru, and inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement after renouncing Hinduism.
After graduating from Elphinstone College, University of Bombay, Ambedkar studied economics at Columbia University and the London School of Economics, receiving doctorates in 1927 and 1923, respectively, and was among a handful of Indian students to have done so at either institution in the 1920s. He also trained in the law at Gray's Inn, London. In his early career, he was an economist, professor, and lawyer. His later life was marked by his political activities; he became involved in campaigning and negotiations for partition, publishing journals, advocating political rights and social freedom for Dalits, and contributing to the establishment of the state of India. In 1956, he converted to Buddhism, initiating mass conversions of Dalits.
In 1990, the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, was posthumously conferred on Ambedkar. The salutation Jai Bhim (lit. "Hail Bhim") used by followers honours him. He is also referred to by the nickname Babasaheb, meaning "Respected Father".