Dhammachakra Pravartan Din: History and Significance of Ambedkar’s Great Conversion to Buddhism
Dhammachakra Pravartan Din: History and Significance of Ambedkar’s Great Conversion to Buddhism
Every year on 14 October, lakhs of followers gather at Deekshabhoomi, Nagpur to commemorate a defining moment in Indian history—Dhammachakra Pravartan Din. This is the day in 1956 when Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, renounced Hinduism and embraced Buddhism along with more than five lakh followers. This mass conversion was not merely a religious shift; it was a bold socio-political revolution against caste discrimination, inequality, and oppression.
In this blog, we will explore the history and significance of Dhammachakra Pravartan Din, the reasons behind Ambedkar’s conversion, and its everlasting impact on Indian society.
Historical Background
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar had long been vocal about the injustices of the caste system. Despite being the most educated leader of his time, he experienced untouchability firsthand and witnessed the systemic exploitation of Dalits. As early as 1935, he declared:
Also Read
Ashoka Vijayadashami: The Festival of Dharma, Victory & Inner Revolution
Samrat Ashok : महान मौर्य सम्राट का जीवन, युद्ध और बौद्ध धर्म की ओर यात्रा
Dalai Lama’s Successor: The Battle Between Buddhist Tradition and China’s Political Ambitions”
The Dhamma Policy of Ashoka: Lessons for Modern Governance
“I was born a Hindu, but I will not die a Hindu.”
For over two decades, he studied multiple religions, including Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, and Buddhism, searching for a path that aligned with his principles of equality, liberty, and fraternity. After deep analysis, Ambedkar concluded that Buddhism was the only path that rejected caste hierarchies and promoted compassion and justice.
The Event of 14 October 1956
On 14 October 1956, at Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur, Dr. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism in a historic ceremony:
- He took the Three Refuges and Five Precepts under the guidance of Bhante Chandramani, a respected Buddhist monk.
- More than 5 lakh followers simultaneously converted with him, making it one of the largest mass religious conversions in history.
- Ambedkar administered 22 Vows to his followers, rejecting Hindu deities and caste practices, and committing to equality and compassion.
This event is known as Dhammachakra Pravartan Din, meaning “the day of turning the wheel of Dhamma.”
Significance of Dhammachakra Pravartan Din
1. Social Liberation
Ambedkar’s conversion marked the liberation of Dalits from centuries of untouchability, humiliation, and social exclusion.
2. Political Assertion
The mass adoption of Buddhism was also a form of political assertion. It challenged the dominance of the caste system and established a new identity for millions.
3. Spiritual Revolution
By embracing Buddhism, Ambedkar introduced Navayana Buddhism, or “the New Vehicle,” which emphasized social equality, rationality, and modern values.
4. Global Recognition
Also Read
Ashoka Vijayadashami: The Festival of Dharma, Victory & Inner Revolution
Samrat Ashok : महान मौर्य सम्राट का जीवन, युद्ध और बौद्ध धर्म की ओर यात्रा
Dalai Lama’s Successor: The Battle Between Buddhist Tradition and China’s Political Ambitions”
The Dhamma Policy of Ashoka: Lessons for Modern Governance
The event gained worldwide attention, showcasing Ambedkar as not just an Indian leader but also a global figure in the struggle for human rights.
Why Nagpur and Vijayadashami?
Ambedkar chose Nagpur for this event because of its historical association with Buddhism in ancient India. The date coincided with Vijayadashami (Dussehra), symbolizing the victory of good over evil. By aligning his conversion with this festival, Ambedkar conveyed a powerful message of triumph over social oppression.
Impact on Indian Society
Immediate Impact
- Within weeks of Ambedkar’s conversion, lakhs more followed his example across India.
- Buddhism once again became a vibrant faith in its land of origin after centuries of decline.
Long-Term Impact
- Deekshabhoomi has become a sacred pilgrimage site, drawing millions annually.
- Dhammachakra Pravartan Din is now celebrated as a festival of equality, unity, and identity.
- The movement inspired Dalits to pursue education, political rights, and social reforms.
Ambedkar’s Legacy Through Buddhism
Ambedkar passed away just weeks after his conversion, on 6 December 1956, but his final act of embracing Buddhism left an everlasting legacy. He transformed Buddhism into a living force of social empowerment in modern India.
His vision of Navayana Buddhism continues to inspire movements for justice, human dignity, and equality not only in India but across the world.
Conclusion
Dhammachakra Pravartan Din is not just a religious ceremony; it is a day that symbolizes freedom, equality, and a new beginning. On 14 October 1956, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar turned the wheel of Dhamma and gave millions a new identity rooted in dignity and justice. Today, this day continues to remind us of his courage, vision, and the power of collective transformation.
As lakhs gather at Deekshabhoomi every year, the chants of “Jai Bhim, Jai Buddha” echo not just as slogans but as a declaration of equality for all.
Also Read
Ashoka Vijayadashami: The Festival of Dharma, Victory & Inner Revolution
Samrat Ashok : महान मौर्य सम्राट का जीवन, युद्ध और बौद्ध धर्म की ओर यात्रा
Dalai Lama’s Successor: The Battle Between Buddhist Tradition and China’s Political Ambitions”
The Dhamma Policy of Ashoka: Lessons for Modern Governance
Dhammachakra Pravartan Din, Ambedkar Buddhism, Ambedkar 1956 conversion, Deekshabhoomi Nagpur, Navayana Buddhism, Ambedkar Jayanti, Ambedkar 22 vows, Ambedkar religion, Buddhist conversion India, Dalit liberation, Ambedkar Vijayadashami
#DhammachakraPravartanDin, #BRAmbedkar, #BabasahebAmbedkar, #Deekshabhoomi, #AmbedkarBuddhism, #Navayana, #AmbedkarConversion, #DalitHistory, #IndianBuddhism, #EqualityForAll, #SocialJustice
Note:
Jai Bhim! Namo Buddhay! Friends, welcome to Nagvanshingo. If you find any information on our page incorrect or if you would like to share any! additional! information! with us, please contact us at nagbbs50@gmail.com