Constitutionalist, Historian, Economist, and Torchbearer of social rights
“Cultivation of mind should be the ultimate aim of human existence.” ~ Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar
The year was 1917 in the erstwhile kingdom of Baroda, a 26-year-old youngster from the depressed class who recently came back from the United States, not able to find himself a decent home, was living in the Parsi area posing himself as a Parsi. On the eleventh day of his stay, however, the deception failed. Some local Parsis found out his caste, and with sticks in hand, they stormed his residence. They issued an ultimatum and asked him to leave till evening that day.
The boy left and spent the night in a park nearby, unable to sleep. He sat under a tree with his suitcase, bedding, and all his degrees, certificates, and books strewn around him on the ground.
This is a story of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar narrated by Dr Shashi Tharoor in his short but sentimental work Ambedkar: A Life. As the nation celebrates Ambedkar Jayanti on the 14th of April, it is perhaps the right time to learn about his life. How despite facing discrimination throughout his life, he rose up to become the architect of the Constitution of India.
Coming back to the book; it is a short, fascinating, and insightful biography of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, the great social reformer, jurist, and politician who played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. Dr Tharoor’s book provides a comprehensive account of Ambedkar’s life, from his humble beginnings as a member of an “untouchable” caste to his emergence as one of the most influential figures in Indian history.
Tharoor’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making “Ambedkar: A Life” a great read for anyone interested in Indian history, politics, and social justice. The book provides an overview of his early years, including his childhood and education, as well as the struggles he faced due to the prevailing caste system in society. It delves into his political career and contribution to the Indian independence movement. It also focuses on Ambedkar’s role in drafting the Indian Constitution, and his legacy as a social reformer.
The Book discusses in detail Dr. Ambedkar’s role in the round table conferences, in the viceroy’s executive council, and especially in the constituent assembly.
Dr Tharoor’s extensive research is evident throughout the book, as he draws on primary sources such as Ambedkar’s writings, speeches, interviews, contemporary newspaper articles, and other historical documents.
While Dr Tharoor’s admiration for Ambedkar is quite evident throughout the book, there are times when his personal views come through in a few sections. His critique of the Hindu nationalist movement and the current BJP government may be a point of contention for some readers.
While it may not be without its flaws, “Ambedkar: A Life” is a must-read book for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the life and times of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar.
- By Darshan Gajjar – The Author is a student of National Security, Political Science, and International Relations.