Liberating India: Contextualising Nationalism, Democracy and Dr Ambedkar
Abstract Dr B. R. Ambedkar (1891–1956) is the principal architect of the Indian constitution and one of the most visionary leaders of India. He remains to this day a symbol of humanity. He is the father of Indian Democracy and a nation builder who shaped modern India. But his notion of nationalism a...
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| Published in: | Journal of social inclusion studies Vol. 5; no. 2; pp. 172 - 192 |
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| Main Author: | |
| Format: | Journal Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
New Delhi, India
SAGE Publications
01-12-2019
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Get full text |
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| Summary: | Abstract
Dr B. R. Ambedkar (1891–1956) is the principal architect of the Indian constitution and one of the most visionary leaders of India. He remains to this day a symbol of humanity. He is the father of Indian Democracy and a nation builder who shaped modern India. But his notion of nationalism and democracy envisioning an egalitarian society has rarely received adequate academic attention. His views on religion, how it affects socio-political behaviour, and what needs to be done to build an egalitarian society are unique. Such reflections in terms of nationalism and freedom of the people are of great significance in contemporary time in India and the world in general. This article attempts to analyse Ambedkar’s vision of nation and democracy. It also seeks to study how caste system is the major barrier to creating a true nation and a harmonious society. What role does religion play in society and politics? Can socio-spiritual values inspire to break down the barriers of caste differences to form an egalitarian society?
History bears witness to instances where great minds empowered with deep contemplation on meeting with the suffering of the people (which in itself is both a prerequisite and an inseparable element of social reform and liberation), resulting in radical shifts in perception. Ambedkar is one such genius whose compassionate engagement and deep imagination envisioned the establishment of an ideal society based on non-discrimination and love. |
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| ISSN: | 2394-4811 2516-6123 |
| DOI: | 10.1177/2394481119900065 |