Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (14 April 1891 – 6 December 1956), widely known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was an Indian jurist, social reformer, and the chief architect of the Constitution of India. Born into the Dalit (formerly "untouchable") community, Ambedkar fought against social discrimination and the caste system throughout his life. Born in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, Ambedkar faced severe discrimination from childhood due to his caste. Despite this, he excelled academically, earning degrees from Columbia University (PhD) and the London School of Economics. He was the first Dalit to earn a doctoral degree. Ambedkar's most significant achievement was chairing the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution, which he completed in 1950. The Constitution guaranteed fundamental rights, equality before law, and abolished untouchability. He also served as India's first Law Minister. Beyond the Constitution, Ambedkar fought for the rights of Dalits, women, and laborers. He founded the Bahujan Samaj Party and established educational institutions for the Dalit community. He converted to Buddhism in 1956, along with millions of his followers, as a way to escape the caste system. His legacy is celebrated annually on 6 December (Mahaparinirvan Diwas) and 14 April (Ambedkar Jayanti).