Dr. B.R.

Ambedkar, a visionary social reformer, jurist, and the architect of the Indian
Constitution, left behind a rich legacy of thought and ideas. His quotes continue to inspire
movements for social justice, equality, and human rights, particularly among marginalized
communities. Below are some of his most famous and thought-provoking quotes:

1. "Educate, Agitate, Organize."

 This is perhaps Dr. Ambedkar’s most famous quote, emphasizing the importance of
education, social agitation for rights, and organization among the oppressed to bring
about change. He believed that these three pillars were crucial for the empowerment of
Dalits and other marginalized groups.

2. “I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which

women have achieved.”

 Ambedkar was a strong advocate for gender equality. This quote highlights his belief that
the true measure of a society’s progress lies in the empowerment and equality of its
women.

3. “You must not lower yourselves to be a victim of injustice. Stand up for your
rights.”

 A call to action for the oppressed to assert their dignity and fight for their rights rather
than passively accepting injustice.

4. “The progress of any society depends upon the progress of its women. The way
women are treated in society is the mirror of the social condition of the society.”

 Ambedkar repeatedly emphasized the importance of women's rights and their role in the
development of any society. He was a strong advocate for women’s education, marriage
rights, and property rights.

5. "Political democracy cannot last unless there lies at the base of it social
democracy."

 Ambedkar believed that without social equality, political democracy would be

meaningless. In his view, true democracy meant equality in both political and social
spheres.

6. “I like the religion that teaches liberty, equality, and fraternity.”

 Ambedkar famously converted to Buddhism in 1956, and this quote reflects his
admiration for the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity, which were central to the
teachings of Buddhism and his vision of social justice.
7. “A great man is not a man who can do what he wants; but a man who can do
what he ought to do.”

 This quote emphasizes the moral and ethical responsibility of individuals, particularly
leaders, to act with integrity and for the greater good of society.

8. “In any society, there are two kinds of people, one who does the work, and the
other who takes the credit. The problem is that the people who do the work are
never given the credit, and the people who take the credit are never the ones who
do the work.”

 Ambedkar’s keen insight into social structures highlights the exploitation and inequity
that often exists within societal and economic systems.

9. "If you believe in equality, you have to believe in the abolition of caste."

 Ambedkar’s commitment to the abolition of the caste system is reflected in this powerful
quote, which underscores the inherent contradiction between caste-based discrimination
and the principle of equality.

10. "We are Indians, firstly and lastly."

 Ambedkar strongly believed in the unity of India and emphasized that, regardless of
caste, religion, or ethnicity, all Indians should see themselves as one people. This quote
embodies his vision for a unified, inclusive India.

11. "A Hindu society will always remain a society of unequal people and so long
as that inequality exists there can be no real social justice in this country."

 This statement reflects Ambedkar's deep criticism of the caste system, which he believed
was the primary barrier to social justice and equality in India.

12. “The caste system is not only a system of social inequality, it is a system of
social discrimination.”

 Ambedkar critiqued the caste system as not just an economic hierarchy but as a system of
social exclusion, which systematically discriminates against lower-caste and Dalit
communities.

13. “My ideal is that of a society based on liberty, equality, and fraternity.”

 This quote outlines Ambedkar's vision of an ideal society, inspired by the French
Revolution, where liberty, equality, and fraternity are fundamental principles for social
and political relations.
14. “I am convinced that the real struggle for India's freedom will begin only
after the removal of untouchability.”

 Ambedkar believed that true freedom for India could not be achieved unless
untouchability was abolished. He saw it as the most significant barrier to the nation’s
progress.

15. “Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”

 Ambedkar often pointed out the importance of understanding history to avoid repeating
past mistakes, especially in the context of social justice and the fight against
discrimination.

Conclusion

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's quotes are a powerful testament to his lifelong commitment to social
justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. His ideas continue to
resonate with individuals and movements advocating for Dalit rights, women's rights, and social
reform in India and around the world. Whether through his critique of the caste system, his
advocacy for political and social rights, or his call for education and collective action,
Ambedkar's words remain a source of inspiration and guidance for those striving to create a more
equitable society.