Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | May 25, 2016 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Perforation | 13 |
| Watermark | Asokan Capital Multiple [Up] |
| Colors | Grey blue |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 2932 Stamp Number IN 2800 Yvert et Tellier IN 2678 Stanley Gibbons IN 3084 |
| Themes | Famous people | Lawyers-Advocates | Optical Instruments | Politicians | Reformers |
Early Life and Education
Dr. Ambedkar was born on 14 April 1891 in a poor Mahar family in present-day Maharashtra. Growing up amidst the harsh social discrimination faced by the so-called “untouchables,” young Bhimrao’s rise to become a barrister and Ph.D. scholar was nothing short of extraordinary.
Despite severe social disabilities, he excelled academically and went on to distinguish himself in multiple fields. His achievements made him one of the foremost personalities of his time.
Architect of Social Revolution
Dr. Ambedkar combined rational and scientific thought with a deep passion for uplifting the oppressed. Over a public career spanning three decades, he emerged as:
- An eminent constitutional lawyer
- An authority on economic and political issues
- A statesman and author
- An agitator for social reform
- The Architect of the Indian Constitution
When he began his political journey, the untouchables were socially and politically marginalized. By the time of his death in 1956, his tireless efforts had elevated millions from near slavery to equal citizenship — a historic chapter in the struggle for human freedom.
He encouraged his community to adopt cleanliness, self-respect, and education, especially urging them to send their children to school and treat women with dignity. He believed self-elevation was the path to collective progress.
Historic Struggles and Religious Conversion
Dr. Ambedkar led several landmark social movements, including:
- Chowdar Tank Struggle (Mahad, 1927) – Asserting the right of untouchables to draw water from public tanks.
- Kalaram Temple Entry Agitation (Nashik, 1930) – Demanding temple entry rights.
After decades of advocating social equality, he embraced Buddhism shortly before his death, followed by hundreds of thousands of followers across the country.
Architect of the Indian Constitution
After Independence, Dr. Ambedkar was appointed Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly. On 29 April 1947, the Assembly declared the abolition of untouchability, marking a historic victory for social justice. As India’s first Law Minister, he also undertook the monumental task of drafting the Hindu Code Bill, further advancing social reform.