10 Quotes by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar That Teach Us about Social Justice and Equality

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Dr. Ambedkar, was a prominent Indian jurist, economist, politician, and social reformer who dedicated his life to the upliftment of marginalized and oppressed communities in India. Born on April 14, 1891, in a small village in what is now the state of Maharashtra, Dr. Ambedkar faced discrimination and social exclusion from a young age due to his caste status as a Dalit, or untouchable, in the Hindu caste system.

Despite facing immense challenges and discrimination, Dr. Ambedkar went on to become one of the most respected and influential leaders in Indian history. He was the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, and his efforts in the drafting of the Constitution ensured that it enshrined principles of social justice, equality, and human rights. Dr. Ambedkar was also a prolific writer and scholar, advocating for the rights of the downtrodden and marginalized communities, and tirelessly working towards social reform and empowerment.

Here are 10 of Dr. Ambedkar's most powerful and thought-provoking quotes, which continue to inspire millions of people around the world:

"I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved."

Dr. Ambedkar was a staunch advocate for gender equality and women's rights. He believed that the status of women within a society is a true measure of its progress. He fought against gender discrimination and worked towards empowering women through education, social and economic reforms, and political representation.

"Caste is not a physical object like a wall of bricks or a line of barbed wire which prevents the Hindus from co-mingling and which has, therefore, to be pulled down. Caste is a notion; it is a state of the mind."

Dr. Ambedkar was a vocal critic of the caste system, which he saw as a deeply entrenched social evil that perpetuated discrimination and inequality. He believed that caste was not just a physical barrier, but also a mindset that needed to be changed through education, awareness, and social reform.

"The relationship between husband and wife should be one of closest friends."

Dr. Ambedkar emphasized the importance of mutual respect, trust, and equality in the relationship between husband and wife. He believed that a healthy and harmonious relationship between spouses was crucial for building a strong and progressive society.

"Freedom of mind is the real freedom."

Dr. Ambedkar emphasized the importance of intellectual freedom and critical thinking. He believed that true freedom could only be achieved when individuals had the freedom to think, question, and challenge existing norms and ideologies.

"Men are mortal. So are ideas. An idea needs propagation as much as a plant needs watering. Otherwise, both will wither and die."

Dr. Ambedkar recognized the power of ideas and the need for their propagation to bring about social change. He believed that ideas, like living beings, needed to be nurtured and shared to ensure their continued relevance and impact.

"I do not want that our loyalty as Indians should be in the slightest way affected by any competitive loyalty whether that loyalty arises out of our religion, out of our culture, or out of our language."

Dr. Ambedkar emphasized the primacy of the nation and the need for Indians to prioritize their loyalty to the country over any other affiliations, such as religion, culture, or language. He believed in a united, inclusive, and egalitarian India.

"We must stand on our own feet and fight as best as we can for our rights. So carry on your agitation and organize your forces."

Dr. Ambedkar believed in the importance of self-reliance and self-empowerment for marginalized communities. He encouraged people to stand up for their rights, to organize and fight against injustice, and to strive for social and economic independence.

"Educate, Agitate, Organize."

This is one of Dr. Ambedkar's most famous quotes, encapsulating his philosophy of social change. He believed that education was the key to empowerment, agitation was necessary to challenge the status quo, and organizing was crucial for building collective strength and solidarity among marginalized communities.

"Law and order are the medicine of the body politic and when the body politic gets sick, medicine must be administered."

Dr. Ambedkar believed in the rule of law and the need for a just and impartial legal system to ensure social order and harmony. He emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of justice, equality, and human rights to create a healthy and inclusive society.

"I like the religion that teaches liberty, equality, and fraternity."

Dr. Ambedkar was critical of caste-based discrimination and social inequalities perpetuated by certain religious practices. He advocated for a religion that promoted principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, and believed in the power of spirituality that was inclusive and free from discriminatory practices.

Dr. Ambedkar's life and teachings continue to inspire millions of people across the globe. His relentless pursuit of social justice, equality, and empowerment for marginalized communities has left a lasting legacy, and his quotes continue to serve as guiding principles for those working towards creating a more just and inclusive society. As we remember and honor the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, we are reminded of the need to continue his work and strive for a world where all individuals are treated with dignity, irrespective of their caste, gender, religion, or social background.