In the vast landscape of Indian history, few figures loom as large as Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar. His contributions to the nation, particularly in crafting the Constitution of India, have not only shaped the country’s political framework but have also deeply influenced generations of Indians, including myself.
As I reflect on my journey, I found a parallel between two versions of myself—an 18-year-old student at Fergusson College in Pune and the 26-year-old professional at the Atlantic Council, working at the intersection of international relations and public policy.
At 18, I was struggling to understand political science with my final exams coming up, burdened by textbooks that seemed too dense and impenetrable. My frustration led me to a discovery—articles celebrating Dr. Ambedkar on the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti. These writings introduced me to a revolutionary idea: the belief that citizens, when given responsibility, will rise to the occasion, using their voices powerfully and responsibly. This idea was not just an abstract principle; it was the foundation of India’s democracy – that few nations before and after had done.
India, unique among major nations, granted universal voting rights from day one. This bold move, in a country emerging from the shadows of colonial rule, was a testament to the faith in the people’s ability to govern themselves. The Constitution was not just a legal document; it was a blueprint for a nation, designed with the well-being of every citizen in mind. It sought to heal a country scarred by colonial exploitation through the balm of self-rule and democracy – said the articles
Encouraged, I decided to read the Constitution myself. To my surprise, I found it to be more than just a legal text. It felt alive, almost conversational as if a wise friend were guiding me through the intricacies of governance and nation-building. The Constitution, with its 395 original articles, was clearly a living document that embodied the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. I was struck by the ease with which you could understand the constitution.
This personal journey culminated in a deeper understanding of why Dr. Ambedkar is revered as the father of the Indian Constitution. His vision was not just about creating a set of laws but about imbuing those laws with humanity and moral clarity. His work ensured that the Constitution would not just be a technical manual for governance but would work to be a beacon of hope and justice for every citizen.
It is essential to recognize the monumental impact of the Constitution and leadership in the first few decades of Independent India. Experts and commentators in the 1950s and 60s often predicted the collapse of India, a nation left impoverished and fragmented by colonial rule. Yet, against all odds, India not only survived but thrived.
Reflecting on these aspects of the Constitution and nation-building, I came to realize that Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy extends far beyond the pages of history. It has inspired countless individuals like me to pursue careers dedicated to public service and diplomacy.
India recently embarked on yet another electoral journey, with 969 million registered voters participating in the world’s largest democratic exercise, it was a fitting tribute to Dr. Ambedkar. The sheer scale of this endeavor, with 15 million poll workers facilitating the process, was a testament to the robustness of the system Dr. Ambedkar helped create.
The best way to celebrate India – Dr. Ambedkar’s contributions and those of your favorite politician, the successes of Indian democracy and most importantly the idea of people being supreme – is not just to wave the flag but also to read and reflect upon the foundational document. A document that speaks to one and all. As an Indian, read the Constitution – if not the whole thing, just a few articles that may strike you as interesting – to celebrate India, that is Bharat, a Union of States!
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