Babasaheb Ambedkar and Buddhism: The Historic Conversion at Deekshabhoomi

Introduction

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was not only the chief architect of the Indian Constitution but also a great social reformer who fought against caste discrimination and untouchability. His life was dedicated to the upliftment of the oppressed classes, and he firmly believed that true freedom could not be achieved without social equality and dignity Ambedkar and Buddhism.

One of the most significant events of his life, and in modern Indian history, was his embrace of Buddhism at Nagpur’s Deekshabhoomi on 14 October 1956. This was not just a personal transformation but a mass revolution, where lakhs of his followers accepted Buddhism along with him.

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Why Did Babasaheb Choose Buddhism?

1. Rejection of Caste System in Hinduism

Babasaheb was deeply disturbed by the rigid caste hierarchy and untouchability present in Hindu society. Despite his education and achievements, he personally faced discrimination. After years of struggle, he realized that social reform within Hinduism was impossible.

2. Search for Equality-Based Religion

Ambedkar studied various religions like Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, and Buddhism. He wanted a religion where human dignity, equality, and compassion were fundamental values.

3. Buddha’s Philosophy

Ambedkar found in Buddhism the message of equality, rationality, and non-violence. Lord Buddha’s teachings of Dhamma were based on moral conduct and compassion, not on caste or birth.

Babasaheb once said:
“I was born a Hindu, but I will not die a Hindu.”
This powerful declaration finally led him to Buddhism.

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The Historic Event at Deekshabhoomi

On 14 October 1956, at Deekshabhoomi, Nagpur, Babasaheb Ambedkar embraced Buddhism in the presence of lakhs of his followers. The event became a turning point in Indian history.

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How the Ceremony Happened:

• The ceremony was led by Mahasthavir Chandramani, a Buddhist monk from Burma.
• Dr. Ambedkar took the Three Refuges (Trisharan):
  • I take refuge in the Buddha.
  • I take refuge in the Dhamma.
  • I take refuge in the Sangha.
• He also accepted 22 Vows, renouncing Hindu deities and rituals, and promising to follow Buddhist values.
• After Babasaheb, more than 5 lakh people also converted to Buddhism the same day.

This event is now remembered as the Great Buddhist Conversion.

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The 22 Vows of Babasaheb

The vows taken by Babasaheb were revolutionary. Some important ones include:

• I shall have no faith in Brahma, Vishnu, or Maheshwara.
• I shall not believe in Rama or Krishna as gods.
• I shall believe in equality of man.
• I shall follow the Noble Eightfold Path of Buddha.
• I shall strive for wisdom and compassion.

These vows were not just religious, but social and political statements against oppression.

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Impact of Ambedkar’s Conversion

1. A New Social Identity for Dalits

For centuries, Dalits were denied dignity in Hindu society. Conversion to Buddhism gave them a new identity of self-respect and equality.

2. Revival of Buddhism in India

Buddhism had almost disappeared from India centuries ago. Ambedkar’s movement revived Buddhism on Indian soil, making India once again a land of Buddha’s Dhamma.

3. Global Recognition

The world recognized Babasaheb’s step as one of the largest peaceful religious transformations in history. It highlighted Buddhism as a modern, rational, and humane religion.

4. Inspiration for Social Justice Movements

Ambedkar’s act continues to inspire oppressed communities across the world to stand up for justice, equality, and dignity.

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Deekshabhoomi Today

Deekshabhoomi in Nagpur has become a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Ambedkarites from all over the world. Every year, on Ashoka Vijayadashami (Dussehra) and 14 October (Dhamma Chakra Pravartan Din), millions gather here to pay homage to Babasaheb and to celebrate the historic conversion.

It stands as a symbol of liberation, where Babasaheb Ambedkar turned pain into strength and oppression into a movement of dignity.

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Ashoka Vijayadashami: The Festival of Dharma, Victory & Inner Revolution

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Teachings of Ambedkar’s Buddhism

Babasaheb gave a modern interpretation of Buddhism through his book “The Buddha and His Dhamma”. He emphasized:

• Equality of all human beings.
• Rational thinking, not blind faith.
• Compassion and social responsibility.
• Importance of education and morality.

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Conclusion

The conversion of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar to Buddhism was not just a religious shift but a social revolution. Through this act, he gave millions of oppressed people a new hope, identity, and path of dignity.

Today, Babasaheb is remembered not only as the Father of the Indian Constitution but also as the Torchbearer of Modern Buddhism. His legacy at Deekshabhoomi continues to inspire the fight for justice and equality across the world.

Note:

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