“I was born among the classified people. I had vowed from a young age to dedicate my life to their progress. Throughout my life, many temptations have come and gone that could have deviated me from this promise. If I had decided in my childhood to only work towards my own good, then I could have attained any prestigious position I desired, and had I joined Congress, then I would have enjoyed the highest esteemed position within it. However, I have decided to devote my entire life for the betterment of the classified people and, with this goal in mind, I have been following a principle. The principle is that, if someone feels immense enthusiasm for accomplishing a task and that task remains constantly on their mind, it will be commendable for them to adopt a focused way of thinking and action to accomplish it. The issue of the welfare of classified people has been left hanging in limbo by the government for too long. You can imagine (from the above facts) how much pain this must have caused my heart.”
– Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar
Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, in his thought-provoking quote, emphasizes the essence of a just society where reverence and contempt are replaced by compassion. His remarkable work, “Annihilation of Caste,” serves as a strong condemnation of the Indian social structure, particularly the deplorable treatment of the lowest caste as untouchables.
Although forbidden to deliver this impactful lecture due to its contentious nature, Ambedkar took the courageous step of self-publishing “Annihilation of Caste,” which immediately stirred up a storm of controversy. In direct opposition to the Brahmanical caste system and Hinduism, the book advocates for a society that provides equal opportunities for all individuals.
In addition, this significant volume highlights Ambedkar’s perspectives on caste, as opposed to Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of “Harijans,” sparking a dynamic debate between these influential figures. By examining this debate, the book offers valuable insights into the pervasive issue of caste in Indian society.
“Constitutional morality is not a natural sentiment. It has to be cultivated. We must realise that our people have yet to learn it. Democracy in India is only a top-dressing on an Indian soil which is essentially undemocratic.”
― Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.