Original subtitles

Who were shudras?

How did they become untouchables?

The purusha suktha of the Rigved

propounded the doctrine of Chathurvarnya.

It says, the four castes emerged from the body of the creator.

The Brahmin, the priest was equated to the mouth.

Kshatriya, the warrior to the arms.

Vyshya, the trader to the thighs.

And the Shudra, sprang from the feet.

Manu the law giver

degraded the Shudras

to the lowest level.

Once Born an untouchable,

He remains an untouchable, forever.

Obliged to carry dead animals

and eat carrion,

not allowed to use public streets

untouchables lived in a state of permanent segregation.

During the Peshwa regime

untouchables were forced to string a broom around their waists,

to sweep away their own footsteps.

They were made to wear an earthen pot around their necks

lest their spit pollute the earth.

It was a bondage

worse than the slavery of the "Roman Empire"

more cruel than what was perpetrated against.

American Negroes and German Jews.

How long will this go on?

Why did you enter the temple?

I was taking shelter.

Last night it rained very heavily.

You have defiled our temple.

Your shadow fell on the idol!

You filthy scum!

You bloody untouchables,

think you are Ambedkar?

Nowadays everybody is Ambedkar.

Hit him,

teach him a lesson!

You government's son-in-laws,

teach him a lesson he won't forget.

Sare jahaan se acha.

Hindusthan hamara, hamara.

We will take revenge for Goutham Mohan.

- Dalit Ektha. - Zindaabaad.

- Dalit Ektha. - Zindaabaad.

"We will take revenge for Goutham Mohan."

"We will take revenge for Goutham Mohan."

Please don't cross the barricades.

- Dalit Ektha. - Zindaabaad.

If you move beyond this barricade, we will fire.

Please maintain public order.

I declare your assembly

as unlawful assembly.

I order you to disperse.

I order you to disperse.

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.

Young man! You are the only one,

who is always here before me,

and always the last one to leave.

Your name?

Bheem Rao Ambedkar.

Oh, at last we meet.

Professor Seligman talks a lot about you

I am Lajpat Rai.

Shhhh..

Can we go outside and talk?

Our freedom struggle in India..

Oh! I am sorry

I forgot to introduce myself.

You need no introduction, sir!

Professor Seligman speaks very highly,

of the Economics thesis you are writing for him.

We need men like you in the struggle.

Ambedkar, these are very exciting times.

The war has completely finished Britain.

We must take advantage of that.

As you may know, Thilak has began...

his home rule League in India.

And I am continuing my struggle from here.

They have deported me

but they can never defeat me.

We are having a meeting next week.

I'm sorry I cannot attend.

I'm here on a scholarship from Baroda state.

I owe it to the Maharaja to concentrate on my studies.

Pleased to have met you, sir.

You've often heard me say that, the purpose of

knowledge is not just to understand the world

but to change it.

Yes?

Take my example.

I teach.

I write books

and I'm also one of the founders of the Negro Urban League.

- I know sir. - Please understand me

I have no complaints about your academic work.

You're probably one of the best students I ever had.

Please come.

I'm disappointed, Ambedkar.

I'm disappointed that, you choose not to involve yourself

in your country's political struggle for freedom.

I am in America to study

not to join Mr. Lajpat Rai's Home rule league.

If that's what you're referring to.

I know what my responsibilities are.

Of course you do!

And none of my business, really I'm sorry.

Well, what is this subject of your anthropology thesis.

Castes in India.

Their Mechanism, Genesis & Development.

Ah!

- When do you present your paper? - Next Tuesday.

Well, Good luck to you.

Thank you, sir.

Couldn't sleep last night thinking about what you told me.

I just don't get it.

It's so...

unreal.

They literally won't touch you!

That's the least of it. At least you have the freedom...

We have no freedom.

What are you talking about?

Hey, Quit your Job or in?

We got a restaurant to open in two hours.

Get to work, quick, quick.

At least you have the 14th Amendment.

Fat lot of good it has done us.

Think about it. You're from India,

and you can go to Columbia University.

I'm American I can't be a student there.

I can be smart,

talented...

But hey, Let's let's just keep that 14th amendment stuff in the Constitution.

Because in the real world, Black is Black and White is White,

and never the twain shall meet.

You read Rudyard Kipling.

Think You're the only one who reads books?

You black bitch.

Why was that?

Why are you hitting me?

Take that.

You dirty nigger.

Take your hands off me.

How do you object to me touching a black women?

I kill you.

You hear me You dirty Nigger.

You take that I will teach you a lesson.

You hear me?

You black son of a bitch.

Now get the hell out of here dirty nigger.

Manu says, the only occupation...

the lord prescribed to the low castes

is to neatly serve the other three castes.

No collection of wealth must be made by the low castes

even though they are able to do so.

For, a low caste man who has acquired wealth

gives pain to the other castes.

Shamu... Give it to her

and take the money.

The low caste must never speak to the high cast

save from far away.

And when they pass, must utter

loud cries.

And whosoever hears them must...

leave the road till they have passed.

Who wants your wretched money?

Go, go, go away, go...

This boy thinks that, just because

his father was 'Subedar Major',

you will cut his hair.

Nor me or no one.

Mahar is a Mahar

But, you are cutting a buffaloe's hair?

So?

You are worse than buffaloes, donkeys and dogs.

The high castes must never read the Veda in the presence of low castes.

If the low castes hear the Veda,

their ears should be filled with molten lead.

If they utter the Veda

their tongues should be cut off.

Bhimaa...

Bhimaa...

The teacher said, no brahmin worth his soul...

will defile the language of Vedas.

Didn't I tell you to go straight to the Principal?

I did.

You said, things will be different in Bombay.

Stop crying.

Stop crying.

I say, stop crying.

Goats are used as sacrificial offerings,

not lions.

Stop crying.

You are the son and grandson of...

Subedar Major.

Mind well.

Before I start reading my paper I should thank,

Professor Goddenweiser.

Thank you sir.

Castes in India.

The average Hindu,

and I may add the average American

is always in ecstasy,

whenever he speaks about the Indian village.

Since, many believe this idealistic view

it would be better to present a more realistic picture

of village society.

The Indian village is not a single social unit.

The two major divisions are between the touchables,

and the untouchables.

The touchables occupy the position of a ruling race,

while the untouchables occupy the position of a subject race of slaves.

These positions are fixed at birth.

There is no escape.

Can Caste be said to exist amongst Non Hindus?

Yes.

The Hindus have

spread their poison to the rest.

Caste has penetrated

the fabric of Indian society.

What Caste are you?

Mahar.

Now, if we can get back to the paper at hand...

To Ambedkar's grand success.

Double MA.

Phd.

All in three years.

While We Donkeys

are still struggling with a beer!

Hey, Professor Seligman is here.

Sir...

Ah, Ambedkar!

I have a letter for Professor Sidingwell.

Very kind of you.

Where is your glass?

I don't drink, sir.

Oh... Such a nice boy.

I want to hear from you after you finish your thesis.

I'm writing the preface, don't you forget.

Don't ask any of those London chaps.

Lajpat Rai might not understand you.

But I think I do.

Your struggle has been much much harder than his.

Well Goodbye...

Good luck.

Brothers and sisters,

we are honoured to have

with us today, a friend

of Brother Steve Brown.

A young man from India.

His people, Steve tells me,

have been struggling under a taboo.

They have been enslaved like us for countless generations.

They have been oppressed humiliated

and treated like animals.

The oppressors don't touch them

and call them untouchables.

They are condemned to live impure

and die impure.

A permanent hereditary stain which nothing can cleanse.

Let us pray for them.

Lord hold our brothers and sisters, in India

in the palm of your hand.

Protect them

and help them lord,

as You hold

and protect us.

Be with this young man.

Lord, as he leaves to pursue

his studies.

In London.

Why did you leave America?

Because I have finished my studies there.

I intend to continue them here.

What do you plan to do in London?

Enrol at the London School of Economics.

Oh...

Keep terms at Gray's Inn, complete my thesis,

consult the archives,

and also

- qualify as a Barrister. - Oh! Is that all?

He has got a brain and a half hasn't he?

Were you a member of the Ghetto party in America?

No sir. I was not.

And you took no part in any of their activities.

No sir I did not.

What about "Home rule league"?

Were you a member of that?

I was in America,

to study.

What's this then?

That's my Economics thesis.

Page 37.

The British government in India has been the costliest government in the world

and the poverty of the Indian people has,

no parallel in any part of the world.

Search him!

Spys! Get out from my cart.

You never told me that you are Mahars!

You liars! You can't travel in my cart.

To be so well dressed that I thought you...

We will pay double the fare.

Double, tripple! Who cares?

Demean myself, pollute myself for money?

We are thirsty.

We want some water.

Welcome to London.

Professor Seligman recommends you highly.

What was your thesis for him about?

It is the financial history of India from 1765

to the present.

Very ambitious.

Has it been done before.

No sir. I'm the first.

And what thesis do you plan to write for us?

On the problem of the Rupee.

Oh!

I wasn't aware there was a problem.

I disagree with Keynes's.

Justification for India's gold exchange standard.

Then you disagree with me too.

Yes professor Canon, unless you have changed your opinion.

I most certainly have not.

I didn't mean to be rude sir, I...

And you think you can prove that both Keynes and

I've been wrong

all these years?

Yes, sir. I think I can.

Well, well, well.

I certainly wish you good luck.

Thank you sir.

I shall look forward to reading your critique.

Ah, first man in. You know you don't have to be so anxious.

Relax.

Sleep late one day...

There are plenty of books. They won't run away, you know?

There is plenty for everybody.

I'm sorry, you won't understand.

Good evening Mr.Andrews.

- A letter for you. - Thank you.

What about this week's bill?

Tomorrow.

Our son died yesterday...

I am sorry to give you this news.

He fell ill...

There was no money to treat him.

Do not disturb your studies on account of us.

Take care of your health.

Everyone... remembers you here.

Dear Rama,

It is sad that Gangadhar had to die!

Life is going to be rather painful without him.

And for you, all the more as his mother.

Because of the little money I sent,

you are compelled to wash the dirty utensils in other's houses.

I hate myself for doing this to you.

And here in London,

with the war

life is hard for me too. At times,

I have had to sell my books for survival.

- But one can't complain. - Bhim Rao.

Studying at the London School of Economics,

and doing law here at Gray's Inn

must be difficult, Ambedkar?

I'm trying.

My friends here don't believe me.

So perhaps you could enlighten them.

Isn't it true that Indians eat

with their left hand because, they wipe their posteriors

with their right?

Well?

Is it true that the English bathe

just once a week?

Of course!

This is just a rumour.

I'm sure it can't possibly be true.

My dear fellow,

may I remind you that you are a guest in this country?

I Thank you for your kind hospitality.

Baroda state regrets to inform you

that the period of your scholarship is over.

And you are required to return to India immediately.

As per the bond.

You have to work for the Baroda state for ten years.

Diwan, The Baroda State, India.

Is there a way you can persuade them to allow you a few more months?

After all you are so close to finishing.

No sir.

Well Ambedkar, all is not lost.

I can grand you an extension for four years.

If you return within that time you can resume

where you left off.

I appreciate that sir.

Thank you.

You think you'll be able to return?

I don't know.

I hope so.

Bhim Rao! You made us so worried.

Why? My ship was only a few hours late.

We heard a bomb hit your ship.

A bomb?

But thank God it was not your ship.

We went to the ship's office,

they told us your telegram was wrong.

Only your luggage was on that ship.

A bomb hit the ship with my luggage?

Yes, we thought your ship had sunk.

My books! My books were on that ship!

Forget about your books!

What are you talking?

At least you are alive!

News: Montague declares association of Indians in the administration.

Hey, Ananda you have some money?

Yes.

Hey, you!

- Brother! Are you still wrestling? - Oh yes!

- Greetings Bheem Rao. - Greetings.

Rama..

Bhim Rao has come..

Thank you.

- Bhim Rao. - Hmm?

What jewellery did you bring for Rama Bhai?

When the jewel himself is here what is the need for jewellery?

Right?

I tried everything,

to save our son.

But there was no money.

I was so alone.

I needed you so much...

Every... every morsel of food I ate.

I thought of you.

Every Saturday I fasted for your safety.

I know your hardships and loneliness.

You know?

Sometimes I feel... I feel so guilty.

I hope all your studying is finished now?

Why are you staring at me like that?

Hurry up!

You have to finish it before this fish market opens.

Why are you staring at me like that?

Ramu!

I have to go back.

I had to leave my studies halfway.

What are you going to do with so much of knowledge?

Enough now.

I won't let you go.

Don't worry, I'm not going immediately.

But you know, I have to go to Baroda to work.

I can also come with you.

Let me go first and find a place to live.

Then, I will come and take Yashwanth and you.

I want a room.

- Mm.. Your name please.. - Bhim Rao Ambedkar.

Hindu, eh?

Caste?

Mahar.

- Sorry, I don't have a room. - Atleast for a week?

You want to close my hotel?

Try somewhere else.

- Roshan.. - Yes.

Passenger.

Are you alone?

Yes.

- Is this your only luggage? - Yes.

Come.

Oh God!

Roshan.. Roshan.. Roshan..

He's not Parsi. He's not wearing Sudreh and Kusti.

Who are you?

You're not a Parsi!

- Yes I am. - Trying to fool us?

Alright, alright. Show me your Sudreh and Kusti.

Come on. Show us. Show us.

I'm Hindu.

You can't stay here.

This Dharamshala is maintained by the community for the use of Parsis only.

I see your difficulty.

I can assume a Parsi name for the register.

You'll also gain something if I stay here.

I will leave as soon as I am sanctioned a house.

I'm an officer in the Accounts Dept. Of Baroda state.

Oh!

Alright.

Alright.

You'll have to pay Five Annas for the day

for boarding and lodging.

And you'll have to register under a Parsi name.

Thank you.

I will get some food for him.

But you can't stay in this room.

I will give you some other room.

Pack up and come.

Come with me.

Come.

This is where you'll have to stay.

Alright?

Saane..

Give me the staff salary file.

Will you fetch me a glass of water?

Didn't you hear what I said?

There is no water.

What is that then?

There is no water!

Look. Here.

You might be a Senior officer.

But, you can't touch this water.

Maybe the Maharajah should hear about this.

Yes, yes.

Go and tell Him.

We are not scared.

This is our religion.

If the Maharajah wants you to drink water, let Him bring it from his own palace.

He is a Maharajah.

He can do whatever He likes.

He can employ dirty untouchables like you!

Yes I remember. But you know what happened?

But, I didn't get 3 percent marks in Economics like you, Mr. Mukherji.

That too Seligman said he was granting Mukherji 3 percent ..

I didn't know that.

Because he didn't want to discourage me.

Actually I deserved zero.

Doctor Ambedkar!

I'm Jahangir Umrigar.

Secretary of this officers' club.

May I have a word with you?

Of course. Excuse me.

Please come, sir.

It's like eh...

We have received your application letter.

We'll be pleased to admit you to this club.

But only on the following conditions.

You will have to sit at your own separate table.

You can use your own cutlery, serviettes and crockery.

And only one of our waiters... Maqbool Ahammed is willing to serve you. Mmm?

Dear Ramu,

It's very difficult to get a place to stay.

Even Joshy and Mukerji, my friends from Columbia

refuse to meet me.

I remember,

how angry my father was when I decided to come to Baroda.

You owe nothing to the Maharajah!

Dont be dependent on the whims and fancies of a Maharajah.

That too in Gujarat.

Do you know how orthodox they are in Gujarat?

But I have already accepted the job, father.

What?

I remember.

I received a telegram about my father being critically ill.

I missed my train.

But somehow reached Bombay.

Bhima...

I was waiting for you.

God bless...

Father??

Father!!!

You son of a swine! You fraud. You liar. How dare you take a Parsi name?

We know who you are!!!

You are a Hindu and that too an untouchable!

What do you mean by staying here?

When do you intend to vacate?

Please let me stay for just one more week.

- By that time I would have found anoth... - Nothing doing...

- You get out at once! - You better pack off and get out by evening...

or else...

If we find you here tonight, we are going to break your head!!

Understand?!!

Doctor Ambedkar..

Maharajah is expecting you. Please come.

Ambedkar!

Come in... come in...

I've been very proud of you, my boy.

Very proud of you.

I read Caste in India. Excellent paper...

- Excellent. - Thank you! Your Highness.

Sit.

So, what can I do for you.

The Diwan indicated that you had a problem.

Sir, I need a place to stay.

Ambedkar...

I understand your problem.

But you must understand mine.

I have to go slow.

As it is.. I have caused a revolution by employing you here.

You cannot expect to blow up the entire mountain of caste in a day or two.

These things take time.

You must be patient.

How people can be so cruel to you.

What's all this, Rama?

This is the first day that you are going to sidin...

Sydenham college.

Sidin...

Sydenham college.

Sidin..

Listen...

What is a boring untouchable going to teach us?

Wait till my father hears about this.

Think, what this buffoon is going to speak in English.

I'm Professor Ambedkar.

I will be your lecturer in Political Economy.

In case you are wondering what could I possibly teach you...

Allow me to introduce myself.

I have an MA and PhD in Public Finance

from the Columbia University in NewYork.

My thesis covered the financial history of India from 1765 to the present.

In addition I am working towards an MSc from the London School of Economics.

If any of you feel that I am not qualified to teach you and would like to leave,

feel happy to do so, now.

So, let's begin.

- Doctor Ambedkar. - Yes?

I am Professor Thrivedi.

This water is reserved for the professorial staffs.

What do you think I am?

Yes, yes, yes. We all know you are a lecturer but...

here we are to tell you to bring your drinking water from home.

If you learned Professors have any objection in my drinking this water.

I suggest you to bring water from your home.

Or purify it.

You are Thrivedi...

So I assume that you know the rituals to purify polluted water.

No?

I will tell you.

Amedhya shava chandaala..

Madhya maamsaadhi dhooshithaa..

That's from vridha haritha smrithi.

Shall I repeat it?

Amedhya shava chandaala..

Madhya maamsaadhi dhooshithaa..

Home rule is as much the birthright of a mahar as that of a brahmin.

And unless and until this attitude is adopted, the day on which India will have home rule is distant.

A swaraj where there are no fundamental rights guaranteed for the depressed classes,

will not be a swaraj for us.

It will be a new slavery.

- A Mahar. - Oh!

What a powerful statement.

Diwaan sahib..

Do you know who is the writer of this anonymous letter?

No, Your Highness.

Doctor Ambedkar.

Dhathobappavar told me.

Doctor Ambedkar is starting a fortnightly.

And he needs some help.

Yes…Yes Your Highness.

I agree that with uncompromising courage

you are trying to eradicate the evil practices created by this caste system,

And to help liberate the lower classes from the unjust dominance of Brahmins and the priesthood...

but still...

Let us not hurry in this case.

No... Diwaan Sahib, no...

We must encourage Doctor Ambedkar in every possible way.

Yes..

We will help him to start his fortnightly...

"Mooknaayak."

Leader of the Dumb.

India is a home of Inequality.

Hindu society is just like a tower...

which has several storeys,

without a ladder or an entrance.

One is to die in the storey,

in which one is born.

So friends…

This Mangaon conference has convinced me

that you have found your saviour in Ambedkar.

I'm confident...

that he will break your shackles.

Not only that...

a time will come when...

so whispers my conscience...

Ambedkar will shine as a front rank leader of all India fame.

Rama, Somebody's calling.. Who can it be?

Oh, Ambedkar...

I think he is Shahu Maharajah.

Let's go up.

- Maharajah, please sit. - Ambedkar.

How about a cup of your special tea, sister Rama bai?

Rama, tea.

What they say is true.

Behind every great man there is a great woman.

You are a lucky man, Ambedkar.

I have a contribution for your London studies.

Open it.

Thank you sir.

Wonderful!

So...

Come on.

Let's go to "Mooknayak" office.

Ramu..

I can understand,

your suffering, loneliness

and hardships.

But I have to complete my studies.

It's only a question of two years.

What did you think of the defense.

Well well.

Look what the cat dragged in.

Oh Ambedkar??

We're all out of chicken.

We just served the last piece. Cabbage and gravy is all that is left.

What's the matter?

Robert.

Ah.

I see you have my piece of chicken.

Well, aren't you lucky?

My father says, in India, Indians and dogs eat outside.

Apologise.

Apologise!

All right.

I apologise.

You dropped this.

Thank you.

Good news.

Wonderful.

Didn't you hear? Prince of Wales' visit to Bombay?

No. What about it?

Downed shutters everywhere.

Black flags!

Gandhiji made a huge bonfire of British clothes.

There are other things Gandhiji should be burning.

- Like what? - Asnodkar.

There are 15 million untouchables in India with no civic, legal, political, or moral rights.

But you see the British have to leave first.

Everything else will follow.

Yesterday you boys had your lights burning till 9:30.

I can't afford to have you lit up all night like Piccadilly Circus.

You've got ten minutes till 9 O'clock and then lights out!

Dear Shivadharkar,

How is Mooknaayak?

Life here is very difficult.

My landlady is a very harsh and terrible woman.

I have to make do with the frugal breakfast,

which is also my lunch.

In the quiet nights here in London,

I can hear Valarambose's clarnet.

I'm anxious about Ramabai.

Please continue to take care of her,

as I know you will.

Also I hear from home that the tuition teacher is irregular.

Why is this so? If money is the only constraint please increase his salary,

or get another teacher.

On no account, should the education of the children suffer.

Please personally look into the matter.

Bhimrao.

Never had a moments time for you here in Bombay,

and just look how he cares for you from a thousand miles.

Excuse me.

You can't eat here.

Excuse me.

We met the other day.

We did?

You know you dropped your paper.

And I picked it up.

Ah, yes...

Fanny Fitzgerald.

- Bhim Rao Ambedkar. - Pleasure to meet you.

You work harder than anyone I've ever seen.

I have very little time and much to do.

I wonder if I could be of any help to you.

I work in the House of Commons.

And well…

I have access to a lot of references.

Why don't we have a cup of coffee.

And you can tell me exactly what you are working on.

It'll just take 10 minutes,

and then you can get back to work.

What's the matter?

It's not that..

I have no money.

My treat.

Oh come on.

It won't bankrupt me. I promise.

Good evening, Ambedkar.

Good evening.

I read your "Mooknayak".

Dumb Hero.

I like your writing...

but I don't like your ideas.

That doesn't surprise me.

By the way, you know, Shahu Maharajah is dead.

I met a friend of mine today.

He has just come from Bombay.

For as an Adam all men die.

Even in Christ shall all be made alive.

When my husband died...

I wanted to die with him.

I have been very selfish.

I've never ever asked you about yourself.

There's not much to tell really.

- He died in the war. - Any children?

I live with my mother.

She's the only one I have left.

I hope God gives you the happiness you deserve, Fanny.

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar.

I hereby call you to the bar,

and do publish you barrister.

A toast to the new lawyer.

May he fight the good fight with courage and lots of success.

May God bless my friends and keep them away from all harm.

Bhim..

I have a gift for you.

It's a Bible.

A Bible.

I'm going to write a book on the Bible.

And I'll dedicate it to you.

Fine! Thank you!

Ambedkar.

I expect you thought I called you in to congratulate you on your thesis.

I'm sorry to disappoint you,

but you're going to have to rewrite it.

We have no quarrel with your conclusions, you understand.

I personally think that they're wrong.

As do the examiners.

However we would never ask anybody to alter their thinking just to suit ours.

So you may keep the same conclusions, Ambedkar.

But, what does need to change is the tone of the piece. Your language.

This is an Economics thesis,

not an exercise in Empire bashing.

Bhim, What's the matter?

Didn't they love it?

They hated it.

I have to rewrite it.

I don't believe that. Why?

My language offended them.

I just called a spade a spade.

I didn't invent imperialism. They did.

Oh Bhim! What are you gonna do now?

Rewrite.

Paper...

Paper...

Sahib!

It's a surprise!

- Let me inform Lakshmi... - No, wait...

Let me meet you first.

How are you?

Sahib!

So here... here is a pen and compass box for you.

Tomorrow, we will go to market and buy clothes for you...

for your mother,

and Lakshmi.

This is my law degree.

You know what they said?

Bheem Rao Ramji Ambedkar.

I hereby call you to the bar

and do publish you barrister.

Why don't you wake yourselves up?

My heart breaks to see the pitiable sight of your sad faces

and hear your sad voices.

You have been groaning from time immemorial.

And it were not ashamed to hug your helplessness as an inevitability.

Why did you not perish in the prenatal stage instead?

Wake up!

Wake up!

Why do you worsen or sadden on the picture of sorrows

poverty, slavary and burdens of the world?

With your deplorable, despicable and detestable miserable life,

you had better die and relieve this world,

if you cannot rise to a new life.

Or you cannot rejuvenate yourselves.

Wake up!

As a matter of fact it is your birth right to get food,

shelter and clothing in this land.

In equal proportion with every individual, high or low.

If you believe in living a respectable life,

you believe in self help,

which is the best help.

From the presidential chair of the Indian National Congress,

Maulana Muhammed Ali referred to a suggestion to divide untouchables equally between Hindus and Muslims.

How dare he speak like that?

Are we to tolerate this?

Are we to be traded like slaves?

How can we trust the Congress after this?

Gandhi the great social reformer was in prison when this was said.

And he remained silent.

Do we need such saviours who care more about

appeasing the conservative Muslims in their demands for Khilafat?

I say-No.

I propose we establish a central institution

for removing our difficulties

and for placing our grievances before the government.

I propose we call our organisation.

"The Bahishkrit Hithakarini Sabha".

Saheb?

Saheb?

Saheb?

Saheb?

What do you want? Can I have some peace in this house?

You locked yourself since morning!

You... you didn't eat anything.

I am not to going to die if I don't eat.

You go and eat.

Please leave me alone for a while.

Ramu.

Ramu, what happened?

Dear, Dathoba,

Our son Raja Ratna has brought joy to my hectic life.

When I see him I remember my father's fondness

and love for me.

I am happy to see him around.

I am trying my best to establish myself as a good lawyer.

It being low cast makes things all the more difficult.

But then Raja Ratna is our comfort.

Bheem Rao, Bheem Rao, Raja Ratna is very serious. Please hurry up.

But, dear Dhatharva,

The ill omen day came and Raja Rathna had to die.

And now that we have buried the fourth of our auspicious and frightly children,

All the salt from our life is gone!

Tell me Dhatharva, Why is destiny so cruel?

Why Did Raja Rathna have to die? Why?

- I Bheem Rao Ramji Ambedkar. - Having been nominated

a member of the Bombay legislative council

do solemnly affirm

that I will bear true faith and allegiance

to his Majesty the King Emperor,

as by law established

that I will uphold the sovereignty

and integrity of British India.

We should start our agitation from somewhere in Konkan.

That too comes under the Bholay resolution in the Bombay legislative council,

about untouchables being allowed to use all public watering places.

Let's begin the agitation of Mahad, to the opening of the Chowdar Tank for the untouchables.

This will be the commencement of the social revolt.

Sahasrabudhe, Chitre, and Tipnis

should reach each and every village

and get people to gather in thousands.

Har Har Mahadev.

Har Har Mahadev.

Har Har Mahadev.

Har Har Mahadev.

Chatrapati Sivaji Maharaj ki - jai.

Finally they have hired a Tamasha theatre for the conference

and hundreds of people are marching towards Mahad.

Brothers and sisters,

I am very thankful to you for giving me the honor of the President ship of this conference.

I am very happy to be here.

I learned my first alphabet at the Dapoli school.

One always remembers with oneness...

the place where one has passed once childhood.

But I am very sad too, for we go on bearing injustice.

My advise to you is

let us throw away the dirty life style imposed upon us by high cast Hindus,

who condemned us to live in this hell.

So educate, agitate and organise.

Have faith in yourself and learn to be clean.

I therefore ask you to to take a solemn vow,

to denounce eating carrion and thrown out crumbs.

Educate your children, inculcate in them the idea that they are destined to be great

for ours is not a battle for wealth and power.

It is a battle for freedom and self respect.

And with justice on our side.

I do not see how we can lose the battle.

The untouchables of Mahad find it very difficult to obtain drinking water.

To remove this difficulty the Mahad municipality in accordance with the Bolay resolution

has opened the Chowdar tank, for the public use irrespective of cast.

But you all know so far the untouchables of Mahad have not implemented this resolution because they have been afraid.

So I appeal to this conference to give a lead in this matter.

So let us all go out to the Chowdar tank and drink water as is our legal right.

Chalo Chowdar tank!

Listen everybody!

They have defiled the tank.

Now they will enter the Veereswar temple.

They defiled the tank.

They will enter the Veereswar temple.

Doctor Saheb, Doctor Saheb.

- Doctor Saheb, riots! - Riots?

Yes, They are armed with Latis.

And they are brutally beating our people Its chaos! Confusion!

Doctor saheb please stop them.

Hey, stop that.

Disgusting. In human.

How could they be so brutal?

- Doctor Ambedkar? - Yes.

Will you please control your people?

- Control my people? - Yes.

Chitre, Gaekwad.

He's asking me to control our people.

- All right. I control my people. You control the rest? - All right.

Are you planning to enter the temple?

- Temple? - Yes.

Our conference is over. We have dispersed peacefully.

And we always follow the law. And the tank is open for all by the law.

Please be silent. I appeal to you for calm and peace.

We have proceeded lawfully thus far. Let's not take law into our own hands.

We do not want to lose any more destruction and bloodshed.

Return to your villages peacefully. I beg of you. Please.

She has not slept...

She has not eaten.

She has fallen sick worrying about you.

Don't you care anything about your family?

I know what happened.

Then why do you risk your life like this?

Hey, hey, hey Bheema, listen to me I am your elder brother.

You have to listen to me. Tell me...

Who was the one who supported your family when you were studying?

When you did not have a single paisa with you? Tell me?

Who was that?

Hey! Nothing in this house belongs to you. Nothing.

Even the cooking utensils, everything was bought with my money.

- Do you understand? - Then take them and leave.

All right. I will take them

I will take everything.

Everything, everything.

Please.

Go to hell.

Go to hell.

All right.

I will never set my foot again in this house.

Never again. All right?

Never again.

I want to live alone.

Bhabuji...

Have you eaten?

Yes.

Dear readers,

As Mooknayak had to be closed, I am starting a new fortnightly

which is to be called Bahishkrit Bharat.

To voice the grievances of the deepest classes.

I would like to appeal to the other subcasts to unite us one

to strengthen the Satyagraha of Mahad.

Here is a telegram from America, congratulating you.

It says you have ignited the spark of the unprecedented social revolution.

Do they know that the tank is purified?

There is one more telegram from Banaras.

This strongly protest our action, and challenge you

to repeat it at your own peril.

Bhai, give two tea at table no. 4.

Bharath Bhai, give us something to eat.

How is 'Bahishrith Bharath' doing?

All copies sold out.

Good.

How was the council meeting?

Stormy.

Then tell me.

What is the position of Mahad?

Mourey! Doctor Saheb.

They have proclaimed ban on

all who came to Mahad.

In all villages.

Our people are facing extreme harassment.

They refuse to sell them corn.

Pick quarrels on some pretext or the other.

Many have been jailed

I myself was beaten up and Ved...

They are facing threats and atrocities.

And in Mahad the municipal council has passed a resolution

saying that the Chowdar tank will not be open to untouchables.

Deadly diseases require

drastic remedies.

Friends, there is a letter from Mr Zevelker.

The leader of the Non Brahmin Movement.

It says, we the Non Brahmin leaders of Maharashtra,

declare our whole hearted support for the Satyagraha

on condition that all Brahmin should be weeded out from it.

The view that all Brahmins are the enemies of the untouchables is a wrong view.

I do not hate Brahmins personally.

I hate the spirit of Brahminism

which may be found in Brahmins and non Brahmins alike.

It has been resolved that December 25th and 26th, 1927

will be the dates for the Satyagraha at Mahad.

Har har Mahadev!

Har har Mahadev!

Dr. Bheemrao Ambedkar Saheb, Jai ho!

Dr. Bheemrao Ambedkar Saheb.

Police superintendent here doctor Ambedkar.

The collector would like to see you.

Please come.

Brothers,

while you march in Mahad, observe strict discipline.

Satyagraha loses power, if there is no discipline.

You lead them Chitre. I will join you.

Sahasrabudhe, come with me.

Chalo Mahad.

Asprishyatha! (Untouchability) Nahi Chalega! (Won't do)

Asprishyatha! (Untouchability) Nahi Chalega! (Won't do)

Asprishyatha! Nahi Chalega!

Asprishyatha! Nahi Chalega!

I do not want anyone near the tank.

All right? Good.

You must understand my problem. The high caste have gone to court,

claiming the tank is private property, and the civil court has granted them a stay order.

Mr.Hood you know as well as I do that this is a completely fraudulent claim.

But you know this is up to the courts to decide whether or not they are justified?

But the whole purpose of this Satyagraha was to drink water from the tank.

If you persist I will be forced to make arrest.

You will be in contempt of court.

Do you want to send 10,000 of your followers to jail, what purpose will it serve?

You know I'm not against your movement.

I have resisted pressure to issue an order

prohibiting the assembly of five or more persons.

Thank you.

We are grateful.

Will you give me the opportunity to speak to your conference, just for a few minutes,

before you proceed to the tank.

That will be possible.

We must take your leave now. They'll be waiting for us to begin.

This conference that has been called to inaugurate

an era of equality in India,

has no parallel in Indian history.

I can only compare this to a meeting held in France in 1789,

that ushered the French revolution.

Our conference is the beginning of such a social revolution in India.

We are here to declare a war!

Our goal is not only the abolition of untouchabilty,

but a war against the caste system itself.

We will not be immortalised by drinking water from the tank.

But this, our action will prove that we are also human beings.

We must establish the principle

that status in India shall not be determined by birth

but by merit alone.

We must rearrange Indian society

on the principles of a cast less, classless society.

We must adopt the principle

that all men are born equal and die equal.

Let us destroy the authority of the ancient Hindu scriptures that are bound in inequality.

Brothers and sisters,

Religion and slavary are not compatible.

Brothers and sisters,

even though I'm a Brahmin by birth.

I condemn outright,

the doctrines of the Manu Smruti.

It is the symbol not of religion,

But of inequality, cruelty and injustice.

I move a resolution,

that the Manu Smruti which has been the cause of untold sufferings for the generations

be publicly burned.

But a Sudra, whether bought or unbought,

he may be compelled to do servile work;

For he was created by the Self-existent,

(Svayambhu) to be the slave of a Brahmana. The king should carefully compel,

Vaisyas and Sudra to perform the work for them;

For if these two (castes) swerved from their duties,

they would throw this world into confusion,

A Sudra, though emancipated by his master,

not released from servitude;

Since that is innate in him,

who can set him free from it?

Dear Bhawra, Congress has boycotted the Simon Commission,

and so has Muhammed Ali Jinnah.

But I'm determined to attend it in spite of all the anger and fire against me.

During this crisis I missed Balarambha. He would have supported me, had he been alive.

After giving my classes in the law collage,

I will be going to Poona, there I have to meet Simon Commission tomorrow.

Saheb. Take care.

Madki bua was telling me that your enemies are...

Ramu, you still have a fever. Dont forget to take your medicines. I will take care of myself.

So you are particularly anxious to get appointments in the public service?

Yes. Decidedly.

Why is that so?

Our experience on the administration of the law is very bitter.

In most of the cases, the law is administered to the disadvantage of the depressed class man.

I understand that you have been very active in the uplift of the depressed classes.

Do the higher classes help you in this work?

The whole cast in the population insist upon the depressed classes doing the unclean jobs.

Because giving up doing these jobs means that the depressed classes are exceeding their social status

rivaling the upper class.

What do you want to represent as the proper way in which the constitution of India should deal with the depressed classes?

The first thing I would like to submit is that, we claim that we must be treated as a distinct minority

separate from the Hindu community.

Secondly the depressed classes minority

needs a far greater political protection than any other minority in British India,

for the simple reason that it has been kept educationally ever backward

economically poor, socially enslaved and suffers from grave political disabilities,

from which no other community suffers.

So we claim, reserved seats, if accompanied by adult franchise.

And if there is no adult franchise?

Then we would ask for a separate electorate,

certain safeguards regarding the education of the depressed classes and their entailed public service.

Mr. Solanki, do you keep the same view.

Yes of course.

If the details of the scheme which you have layed out,

were to be introduced into the constitution of this country,

would it not lead to perpetual class war?

It might.

But it would depend on the attitude of the majority Sir John.

Therefore you would not, as a sagacious statement?

I do contemplate and I do desire the time when India shall be one.

And I believe that a time will come when all these things will not be necessary.

But again, it would depend upon the atttitude of the majority towards the minority.

How many members of the depressed classes practise at the Bar?

I am the only one.

'Simon commission go back'

Anymore questions gentlemen?

'Mahatma Gandhi ki jai'

'Mahatma Gandhi ki jai' Thank you Dr Ambedkar, Mr. Solanki.

'Simon Commission go back'

Thank you major Atley

Simon! Go back Go back!

Sir don't you think that those who were clamouring for the independence of the country has inconsistent attitude?

Yes, of course!

They raised violent protest against the insulting treatment

meted out to Indians in South Africa.

And to Indian students in Britain.

And at the same time

denying human rights to their own countrymen

and co-religionists in India.

I find this attitude inconsistent, selfish and shameless,

which is why my editorial says

that we must act in a forcible way

so as to let the caste Hindus know

that to observe untouchability is a risk

as dangerous as bearing live coals on their tongues.

The untouchables will try to enter the Kalaram temple in Nasik

and if this is opposed we will insist on Sathtagraha.

Naik...

The political rights of the untouchables are more important than the temple entry.

We just want you to lead the movement. We will take all the responsibilities.

Alright Bhaorao,

Send a notice to the trustees of the Kalaram temple about the sathyagraha.

Are not the owners of the temple.

They have no right to interfere in the traditions.

Since the inception of the temple,

our ancestors were appointed

as the priests.

And, we are following them honestly.

We,

the priests are the supreme powers of the temple.

If the trustees use their rights

in a wrong way to defile the purity of the temple,

and allow the untouchables to enter the temple

we will strongly protest.

Long live Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar.

Long live Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar.

Justice to the depressed class.

Hurry up. Hurry up.

Close all the doors now.

We too have rights in India of tomorrow.

Long live Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.

We too have rights to enter the temple. Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar... Long live.

Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar.. Long live.

By the order of the District Magistrate,

all the gates of the temple are locked.

By all means we have to establish our right to enter the temple and worship God.

I think there is no other way than Satyagraha.

Bhaorav, post our people at all four gates.

South, North, East and West,

We should be the first people to enter the temple when it opens.

Dr. Ambedkar, Don't you feel that it's a crime to block the gates

and not allow the people to enter the temple?

I know Mr. Governor, it is.

Suppose I order the Indian Penal Code 144 and allow only four people here..

Still we'll struggle to establish our rights.

What attitude do you propose to adopt in connection with this Rath procession?

The untouchables will participate in dragging the Rath

and we'll offer the pooja to the idol in the Rath and that has been a tradition.

Caste Hindus will bring the Rath to the main door of the temple

and after they've dragged it ten feet from the gate, they'll stop.

And your people can join by holding the rope fastened to the Rath.

Is that agreeable to you?

Yes, I agree.

We've to find fifty men to pull the Rath.

How do you choose fifty out of five thousand?

Choose the hefty and able bodied.

Hey, they are running away with Rath Hold them!

Go on. Hold them!

Stop!

They are throwing stones!

They are throwing stones!

Help!

Help!

Hold him, Hold him!

The actions of the District Magistrate and the threat to withdraw the police indicates

that the Government is not willing to use the power to help the people who are struggling for their rights.

Such a Government is no good for anybody.

I don't agree with the findings of the Magistrate of Nasik

I've already written to the Governor about our version of the story which is true

- Dr. Ambedkar? - Yes.

- From the Viceroy. - Thank you.

Oh, it's an invitation to the Round Table Conference in London.

- Congratulations. - Thank you.

- Congratulations. - Thank you.

Dear Chitre,

Congress and Gandhi have boycotted the Round Table Conference.

Congress men hate and curse those who are going to attend it.

I'll demand what is rightful for my people

and I'll certainly uphold the demand for Swaraj.

Selection of the representatives of the Committee

had Prime Minister's intervention.

Mr. Chairman and respected delegates of the Round Table Conference,

My colleague, Rao Bahadur Srinivasan and I

have the honour to place before you the point of view of the depressed classes of India

who represent one-fifth of the total population of British India.

Our point of view is this -

The British Government in India should be replaced

by a Government, of the people, by the people and for the people.

The depressed classes have traditionally welcomed the British as they deliver us,

from the tyrany and oppression of the orthodox Hindus.

Before the British, we could not enter the temple.

Can we enter now?

Before the British, we were denied entry into Police and Military forces.

Is that career open to us now?

Our wounds have remained as open sores...

and they have not been righted,

although, 150 years of British rule have rolled away...

The Hindus claim them only to deny them appropriate rights.

The Mohammedans refuse to recognize their separate existence because they fear

that their privilege may be curtailed by the admission of a new rival.

Depressed by the Government, oppressed by the Hindus and disregarded by the Muslims.

We are left in a most intolerable position of

utter helplessness to which, I'm sure, there is no parallel.

We hold that the problem of the depressed classes will never be solved

until they get power in their own hands.

Given the present temper of the country, no constitution will be workable

which is not acceptable by the majority of the people.

The time when Britishers were to choose

and India was to accept is gone.

Never to return.

Dr. Ambedkar, the man of the hour.

Yours was the best oratory of the entire conference

I only said what was true.

My boy, I am so proud of you.

I remember the first time we met

- like it was yesterday. - Well, I must go now.

- Thank you. - Well done.

Sir, while we are on the subject, regarding my loan..

What loan?

- For my studies. - Oh, that was a scholarship.

- Dr. Ambedkar, you are wonderful! - Thank you.

That is what I thought Sir, but the Diwan has been writing to me for the past six years

asking me to repay the loan.

He has even written to the college where I teach.

That's preposterous!

I am terribly sorry my boy. I'll..

I'll take care of this.

Our London Radio Correspondence says Dr. Ambedkar made a great impact on the British Parliament.

The foreign press is eager to meet him when he arrives in Bombay.

- Thank you for agreeing to talk to me. - My pleasure.

Dr. Ambedkar, I've been following your movement for a long time

and there's something I don't understand.

You've been an opponent of the Congress party, they boycotted the Round Table Conference.

And you went ahead and attended And yet recently you successfully defended

the 47 congress Satyagrahis involved in the Chirner firing case.

Is that a contradiction?

Miss...?

Rossa - Rossa Epstein.

Ms. Epstein.

There is no contradiction in my position.

I took up this case only for the principles involved.

I don't agree with the congress,

but I do believe that every citizen has a right to agitate.

Rights and the liberties of the people are far more important

than the stability of the Government.

Why should Gandhiji himself send for you?

Obviously to lure our flock of sheep to his fort.

Don't you fall under his spell. He is not a God.

- We should stick to our stand. - Yes, yes.

- Namaste. - Namaskar.

Bapuji is on the terrace.

- Namaste. - Namaste.

And how is your progress with the Charka, Meeraben.

I am trying Bapu.

Good.

You are doing absolutely fine.

Just concentrate.

One day you'll master it.

Good. Good.

That's right.

- That's right. - Bapuji.

Dr. Ambedkar has come.

Ah.

Yes.

Dr. Ambedkar.

You wished to see me?

Gandhiji, you sent me a note calling me here.

Oh yes, that is so.

I believe you've some grievences against me and the congress.

Let me tell you.

I've been troubled by the problem of the untouchables since my childhood.

Before you were even born Dr. Ambedkar!

And because of my efforts,

it has been made a plank on the congress platform.

And that is not all!

We have spent not less than 20 lakhs

on the upliftment of the untouchables.

So it is really surprising,

that men like you should offer opposition to

me and the Congress.

Frankly, Congress has given only formal recognition to the problem.

Hypocritical. Empty words that have no meaning!

You said Congress spent 20 lakhs?

I say it was only a waste.

If Congress was sincere it would have made removal of untouchability

a condition to becoming the member of Congress.

Not to wear khadar .

You say the British Government does not show a change of heart.

I say that the Hindus have not shown a change of heart either.

As long as they all remain adamant,

We'll believe neither Hindus nor the Congress

nor any Mahatmas.

History tells us that Mahatmas are like fleeting phantoms.

There is dust but they raise no levels???

Gandhiji, I have no homeland.

But this is your homeland, Dr. Ambedkar,

and from the reports that have reached me of your work

at the Round Table Conference,

I know that you are a patriot of sterling worth.

How can we call this land our home when we are treated worse than cats and dogs?

And the injustices inflicted upon us are so enormous that

if we should ever be disloyal,

the fault will lie with this land and not with us.

The Congress men oppose our movement and

dub me traitor and you called me a patriot!

All I know is, I've been trying to win elementary human rights

for my people without meaning or doing any harm to this land.

You can call me a traitor or a patriot.

I don't care for either label.

So what would you like us to do, Doctor?

You have agreed to political safeguards for the Muslims and Sikhs

who are politically and economically much more advanced than the untouchables.

The Round Table Conference has recommended

similar political safeguards for the untouchables too.

What's your opinion about that?

I am against the political separation of the untouchables from the Hindus.

That would be absolutely suicidal.

I thank you for your frank opinion.

It is good to know where we stand as regards to this vital problem.

I take leave off you Gandhiji.

What impatience!

- Mahadevv Bhai. - Yes, Bapu.

Why do you think he said he has no homeland?

Perhaps being a Mahari, he feels so.

Dr. Ambedkar is a Mahar?

The whole world knows this Bapu.

The whole world might know but I didn't.

Why didn't anybody tell me about it?

I thought he was a progressive Brahmin from Poona.

Mr. Gandhi left for London today to attend the Round Table Conference.

He expressed his views of the press

that the deligates were not chosen by the nation

but were chosen ones of the British Government.

Mr. Gandhi's participation does not substantially alter opposition.

Our first priority is to arm the depressed classes with political power.

That's the only way.

But Dr. Ambedkar, Don't you think that education will change

the situation of the untouchables?

Have you been speaking to Mr. Gandhi?

I am the most educated person amongst us.

Still I am treated as an untouchable in the society.

What demand are you going to make?

We demand a complete partition between ourselves and Hindus.

And how do you propose to do that?

In the future constitution of India,

the depressed classes should be given a fundamental right declaring

untouchability to be illegal and punishable by law.

Mr. Gandhi said that the separate electorates will perpetuate the stigma

and untouchable will remain untouchable.

Let him say that.

You cannot untwist a 2000 year old twist of human mind

and turn it in the opposite direction.

Oppressors never become saviours which is why I want political power.

Not well-meaning words, not good intentions and no charity.

What's your word about..

Mr. Chairman,

I know what is on the minds of the delegates.

The question of representation claimed by minority communities.

We are reconciled to giving

the Muslims and Sikhs special treatment.

There are sound historical reasons for that.

But as far as the untouchables are concerned,

I and Congress

strongly resist any special representation to be given to them.

Untouchables are a part of Hindu religion

and cannot be separated from it.

Thank you.

- Declaration of war against us. - Hmm, Yes.

Bhim, what happened?

He has asked for an adjournment of the minority committee.

I hear that he has planned to make a deal with the Muslims.

What sort of deal?

Congress will accept the Muslims' 14 point demand if the Muslims opposes.

I don't understand.

But why would he go to such lengths?

He is supposed to be a great saint.

Surely he can see the justness of your cause.

Saint?

He is a seasoned politician, my dear.

When everything else fails, Gandhi will resort to intrigue.

Mr. Prime Minister and friends

I've to announce with deep regret that,

we have failed to secure an agreeable solution

to the communal question through informal discussions.

The failure was inherant

in the composition of delegates who are nominees of the Government,

and not representatives of the people.

As for the Congress, it represents the entire nation

including the untouchables.

- We.. - Mr. Chairman, Sir.

I have not the slightest doubt that I fully represent the claims of MY community.

The Mahatma claims the Congress represents the depressed classes more than I do.

I can only say that it is one of the many false claims which

irresponsible people keep making.

Even these telegrams coming to me from various parts of India

sent by the depressed classes express no confidence in the Congress movement.

And they condemn the methods adopted by the Congress for us.

Let me make another point very clear, Mr. Prime Minister.

The depressed classes are not clamouring for a transfer of power in India.

But if that does happen,

it should not fall in the hands of a few,

an oligarchy or a group of people.

The power should be shared by all the communities

in their respective proportions.

I strongly believe that untouchability is on its last leg

and separate electorates will only perpetuate that stigma.

I'll walk from one end of India to the other

to tell the untouchables

that this is not the way to remove untouchability.

I would rather Hinduism died than untouchability lived.

I've great regard for Dr. Ambedkar.

But it seems that great wrong under which the learned Dr. Ambedkar has laboured

and perhaps the bitter experiences that he has undergone have warped his decision.

It is not a proper claim when Dr. Ambedkar seeks to speak for the whole of the untouchables.

I can say with humility that I represent the vast masses

of the untouchables.

Those who speak of the political rights of the untouchables, do not know their India.

I would resist this kind of a political separation

with my life.

Thank you.

The Government will not allow community differences

to prevent it from producing a constitution.

Therefore, do not allow community difference

to be more important than it is.

Will you, each of you, every member of this committee

sign a request to me to settle the community question

and pledge yourselves to accept my decision?

Thank you.

British Premier Mr. McDonald announced the Communal Award

granting separate seats to the repressed classes.

It is feared in some quarters that this award might politically balkanize India.

So we felt it is our duty to safeguard

the rights of the depressed classes

to a fair proportion of representation in the legislature.

I am, therefore, afraid

that my answer to you, Mr. Gandhi, must be that

the Government's decision stands.

And ask yourself seriously

the question whether it really justifies you

in taking the action you contemplate.

Yours very sincerely, Ramsey McDonald.

But Gandhiji didn't count on McDonald granting separate electorates.

Muslims and Sikhs?

And Christians too are given separate electorates!

Why doesn't he object to those?

Why does he have to take it out on us alone?

The Mahatma's ways are unfathomable to us mere mortals.

But the Mahatma is not an immortal person. Nor is the congress.

Instead of fighting Mahatma,

why don't you believe that he is sincere in his pledge,

to remove untouchability?

There have been many Mahatmas in India whose sole objective was to remove untouchability.

Everyone of them failed in his mission.

Mahatmas have come and Mahatmas have gone but the untouchables have remained untouchables.

Ambedkar... Save the Mahatma!

Ambedkar... Save the Mahatma!

Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jai.

Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jai.

Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jai.

Ambedkar... Save the Mahatma!

Ambedkar... Save the Mahatma!

Ambedkar... Save the Mahatma!

Why don't you leave me in peace? I've work to do.

Mahatma Ji is dying and this man wants to live in peace?

Why don't you go and meet the Mahatma in Poona?

What for?

I've said what I wanted to.

Now let me work.

I've to appear before the court tomorrow for a case.

Is earning money more important to you than Gandhiji's life?

Madam Terin and Mr. Takur, you don't know what you are talking about!

Your leaders don't have to worry about their daily bread.

But if I don't work, I don't eat and my family starves.

Please leave me alone.

Dr. Ambedkar, we are receiving cables from the whole world

entreating us to save Gandhi's life.

Gandhiji's life must be saved. But why do you corner us?

Why put Gandhiji's life against the interest of my people?

Hang me by the nearest lamp post.

But I would never betray my people in the name of saving Gandhiji's life.

You'd better appeal to Gandhiji to postpone his fast for about a week.

And then seek a solution for the problem.

Gandhiji has a way of making people bend to his will.

We too must show our will power.

By going on fast, he is making villains out of us.

Who's that?

Vahini (sister in law)?

You shouldn't have come.

He is been returning his tiffin almost untouched.

I know.. I know he was ill in England.

Sit down.

You'll kill yourself. I've enough troubles on my hands already.

Won't you eat?

Its almost 12.

The fast will begin now.

Bapu.

Thank you.

Here we are. My tussle with God commences.

There is a man to see you Bapu before you lie down for rest.

Ramu.

- Thank God! You've come. - Lie down. Lie down.

I'll bring you food.

Rama, you lie down. I'll bring him food.

Lie down.

Are you taking medicines regularly?

Why do you fight Gandhi Baba?

That's my lot. If I don't, we shall be left high and dry.

A panel?

No harm in that.

But I'd like to meet Dr. Ambedkar first.

Here he come.

- Namaste. - Namaste.

This way please.

Gandhiji, you've been very unfair to us.

That's my lot.

What do you suggest?

Compensation,

for giving up separate electorates.

I know...

The reserved seats.

Surely. But the number is negotiable.

Let me tell you Ambedkar.

I am fully with you.

You are an untouchable by birth.

I consider myself untouchable,

by adoption.

And I also know that you want to save my life...

Yes Gandhiji.

You know...

I am not adamant on a separate electorate as a matter of principle.

The purpose is

to enable a minority to select candidates to the legislature

who will be it's real,

not nominal representatives.

Excellent!

But why a panel for some seats?

And direct election for others?

Surely that will create

an artificial division for the depressed class members,

and divide the community.

Why not have

primary elections through panels

for all the seats?

All right.

I make that concession,

panels for all seats.

Good.

Now make the panel of five

instead of two.

And let me give you my word, Ambedkar.

From now on

my entire life

will be devoted

to the total eradication of untouchabilty.

Now...

you may discuss the details with these friends.

I have discussed with my colleagues.

They won't agree for more than 126 seats in the provincial assembly.

We are firm on 197 seats.

Dr. Ambedkar, go out!

Dr. Ambedkar, go out!

Ambedkar - Traitor.

Ambedkar - Traitor.

Traitor! Traitor!

Ambedkar is Traitor.

Traitor! Traitor! Ambedkar is Traitor.

I had warn you, Doctor Sahib...

We are receiving threatening letters.

So,

We are agreeing for 148 seats

and 10% of the Hindu seats in the central assembly.

Primary elections should terminate by the end of ten years.

The question of reserved seats should be settled by

a referendum in a further 15 years.

Dr.Ambedkar,

the evil of the reserved seats and separation

will be perpetuated

by making its removal dependent

on the will of the depressed classes.

And you are asking for 25 years of referendum.

I refuse to believe that

untouchabilty will be no more in the next 20 years or so.

Facing the Sword of Damocles will,

surely compel the caste Hindus to change their inhuman attitudes to the untouchables.

Dr.Ambedkar..

Try to understand.

Gandhiji is fighting for his life.

So what?

So what?

Oh, sorry.

Don't worry,

we will ask somebody to clean it.

Devdas!

How is Bapuji?

The doctor says.

He is...

sinking.

His

blood pressure is low.

He is

dehydrated and getting breathless.

Did you hear

what Devdas is saying?

Dr.Ambedkar.

Please...

Please!

No referendum, please.

Come.

I have given many concessions, Bapuji.

From 197 seats to 150...

18% in the central legislature

and 4 in the panel.

Surely untouchabilty

will not vanish in 15 or 20 years

just because of this.

I propose

a referendum of the depressed classes

in ten years

on this issue.

But these people are opposed to that.

You mean

putting the mettle of

caste hindus on trial?

Not a bad idea.

But why wait for so long?

Why not

five years?

Need I tell you the anguish and resentment

of the untouchables against

centuries of

wrongs and oppressions at the hands of Hindus?

- To undo the thing, Bapuji, in 5 years... - Yes!

I know.

You have a right to demand safeguards.

But from my...

fiery bed...

I beg you to believe me, Ambedkar.

I seek a reprieve...

for caste hindus..

Their conscience is...

aroused, Ambedkar!

Statutory measures, at this point...

will only

delay the process of heart cleansing

and self-purification.

- But Bapuji... - Alright.

Alright.

A referendum,

but within five years..uh?

Five years

or my life.

Dr.Ambedkar...

we should leave.

The longstanding confrontation

between Mr.Gandhi and Dr.Ambedkar

has finally dissolved in the form of the Poona pact.

Dr.Ambedkar has agreed to sign it

without the condition of a referendum.

He and Pandit Malviya will sign it.

This will bring to an end,

Mr.Gandhi's long fast.

"You have every right to work"

"but not expecting fruits out of it."

"Do not focus on the fruits"

"and never be inactive."

Dr.Ambedkar,

once again you have caused a great furore!

What can I say, Miss Epstein,

It seems to be my lot

it will be no exaggeration to say that

I am the most hated man in Hindu India today.

I am represented as a traitor,

cursed as a destroyer of Hinduism,

branded as the greatest enemy of this country.

But after the dust settles down,

and a review of my life is taken objectively,

by the future historians

perhaps they will reclaim my services to the nation.

And?

If they don't?

If they don't, I don't care.

I know the depressed classes have implicit faith in my work.

They will hold me to close to their heart.

Of that, I am certain.

Dr.Ambedkar.

I have called you here to lend your support

to Subbarayan

and Ayyankar's temple entry bill.

If I accept the temple entry bill

but agitate to abolish Chaturvarnya and caste system,

which side would you take?

Suppose I accept Chaturvarnya

what will be your Interpretation?

Brahmin.

Kshatriya.

Vyshya

and Shudra.

Who in the reverse way?

Shudra on the top.

Dr.Ambedkar.

I am a Hindu, not merely because I am born in Hindu-fold.

But I am one by conviction and by choice.

There is no superiority or inferiority

in the Hinduism of my conception.

But if you want to fight Varnasram itself,

then I cannot be in your camp

because I strongly believe Varnasram

to be an integral part of Hinduism.

So,

I cannot be in your camp too.

Bappu our salvation lies in political power,

not in making pilgrimages,

or observance of fasts.

I will take your leave.

Shall I tell you something?

Don't use the weapon of fast too often.

Your life is so precious and the country needs you.

I know you love books,

but this is madness.

Saheb, you built a house only for your books?

Next week, I sail again to London for the Joint Parliamentary committee.

Ramu,

Come sit here.

I have a wish, Saheb.

Yes, Ramu?

Next time, I will take you to America for medical treatment.

It is better.

Not America or England.

Pandharpur.

I want to bow before Lord Vithoba of Pandharpur.

Won't you fulfil this small wish?

Lord Vithoba is not happy with low caste people like us.

He does not show his face to us.

Why go to a God who does not bless us.

You fought for the temple entry at Nasik?

Yes, but that was to assert our right,

not for Dharshan of the God.

If they call us Hindus, we must have a right to their Gods too.

I will be happy with a darshan from a distance.

- Like untouchables do. - No, No, No Rama. No.

Try to understand, Rama.

A God that discriminates is not God.

It is just a stone.

Our Gods lives in our hearts.

Let's not demean ourselves by seeking mercy

from a God that does not care for us.

We shall create our own Pandharpurs.

Dear Bhaurao,

I am going through difficult times.

As principal of the law college,

I am trying to bring reformations in the college syllabus.

I am caught up between duties for my people,

and duties at home.

I am anxious about Rama's health.

She has deteriorated over the last few days.

I tried my best.

Take this. You will get well.

No.

Get well.

I will take you to the best of doctors.

This no use.

I will make you happy.

I am happy.

I will die happy.

I am not afraid of death.

I have seen deaths...

My mother,

father,

your parents,

your brother,

our four children...

Ramesh,

Gangadar,

Indu,

Rajratna.

I have seen dying...

Saheb.

Is it raining?

Yes. It's raining.

Don't exhaust yourself.

I need you.

You don't know how lonely I am.

Don't despair.

Keep fighting.

Love Yashwant.

I...

Ramu.

Baba Saheb.

Thousands of people are waiting.

So, shall we...

Her last wish was to wear a white saree.

Its customary to clothe in a green saree.

Baba Saheb,

400 untouchables of Karur village are converting to Islam.

Ask them to wait.

I am going to make an important announcement at the Yeola Conference.

And thus, my unfortunate brothers and sisters,

when I look back at the past 10 years of our movement,

I despair of the future.

Enough!

We are no longer dumb animals.

The time has come to put an end to this

harassment and indignities.

Let's leave this cesspool of caste which made us worse than worms.

Break these shackles,

Destroy the social prisons,

Let us choose a new religion,

which will guarantee us equality of status and opportunities.

Unfortunately I was born a Hindu untouchable.

It was beyond my power to prevent that,

But it is within my power to refuse to live under these humiliating conditions.

'Though, I was born a Hindu,

I solemnly assure you that.

I will not die as a Hindu'.

Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Long live!

Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Long live!

This is an unfortunate decision.

But religion is not like a house or a cloak,

which can be changed at will.

It is a more integral part of ones own self,

than of ones body.

Dr.Ambedkar's bitterness clouds his vision.

The millions of illiterate harijans will not listen to him.

Their lives, for good or evil,

are involved with caste Hindus.

Every known religion would fail,

if judged by the standards of Dr.Ambedkar.

But the press should also note that I feel

whatever label the learned doctor wears in the future

he is not a man who will allow himself to be forgotten.

Babasaheb, sugar?

- You want to kill me? - Just a little?

You fool!

Diabetes.

Eat "kadu neem" leaves.

Or better boil them to one-forth and drink every morning.

That bitter dose?

I have been swallowing it for my entire life.

And now you are administering it to us.

Doctor?

Your leaving will be a great blow to Hinduism.

A blow?

You surprise me, Mr.Pradhan.

We, unclean untouchables, have been the contaminators,

the pollutants of you pure Aryans.

Won't our leaving cleanse your religion of all impurities?

Baba Saheb, the exodus will not stop with you.

It would be the death of Hindus in the long run.

It matters little, Masurkar Maharaj.

The history of Hindustan will continue.

Not if the Hindus become a minority in our own land.

Then let the caste Hindus take a pledge

that they will get rid of the evil of untouchability

in a prescribed period.

Is that so easy?

Look at the magnitude of the problem.

It would require time.

Well, I can wait for five years,

for a change in Hindu hearts.

But what guarantee?

How am I to be sure?

Yes. I know that you will show your good intentions.

Make a Mahar a Shankaracharya for one year,

Let thousands of Brahmins fall at his feet.

I am Ms. Drescher from the Agripada mission,

and I would like you to meet Dr.Henry Crain from America.

- Hello Doctor Crain. - Hello.

He has come to take a close look at your conversion movement.

And has already met Mr.Gandhi at Wardha.

Yes, Dr.Ambedkar.

I met many people in that connection.

And I truly believe

that Christianity is the answer that can meet all of your requirements.

If you convert into Christianity

all of the Christian nations

will help to raise your social,

political and economic status.

And I think this won't be objectionable to any of your fellow Indians.

Dr.Ambedkar, as the Bible says

the poor shall inherit the earth.

Which Bible do you normally refer to, Ms.Drescher?

The Holy Bible, of course!

That's true. But which edition?

Modern version?

King James's version?

Or which dates back to the Elizabethen era?

Miss Drescher, have you ever gone through the commentaries on the Bible by Cook?

It's a good analytical study on the Bible.

And also refer to.

Life of Jesus

by Renan.

And Khalil Gibran's Jesus, the Son of Man.

It can give you a different perspective of Christianity.

Dr.Ambedkar,

We would like to invite you to the annual conference of the Methodist Church in Poona.

And to the mission too.

I will try.

Babasaheb

Muslim India would be honoured to welcome you and all untouchables.

We promise you

that untouchables will have the fullest equality and rights in every sphere,

political, social, economical and religious.

As you know, Babasaheb

our religion believes in

one God - ‎ "Ek Oankaar"

and provides equal treatment to all its followers.

It fulfils all the desired requirements

regarding the convertion of depressed classes.

Here is a telegram from Mahabodhi society.

Dr.Ambedkar.

You and your community is cordially welcome to embrace Buddhism,

which is professed in greater part of Asia.

We guarantee equal status to all converts.

There is no caste distinction amongst us.

We are willing to send workers.

Please let us know.

It seems that Congress and Sardar are

bent upon destroying you in these elections.

Haven't you read Sardar Patel's statement?

Yes. No concessions

under the communal awards if we convert.

Look doctor. I have not come here as your friend.

I have come here as an authorised representative of the Hindu Maha Sabha.

We know your views and your patriotism.

We know that you will never convert to Islam or Christianity.

Do not take me for granted.

I don't need your certificate of patriotism.

And I know the culture and history of this country better than many of you.

Yes. It is my contention that

the conversion to either of these faith

would fundamentally alter the

political and cultural

equation here.

But how does it concern us,

If we have no stake?

Doctor.

We shall fight tooth and nail

to protect your concessions.

Even if you convert to Sikhism.

The Hindu Maha Sabha will give you a written commitment.

How diabolical of you,

old brahmin bandicoot.

Dear Bhaurao,

Did you notice Dr.Moonje's anxiety on my decision to change religion?

Some people ask me what advantage would you gain by changing it.

My answer to them is

just as Swaraj is necessary for India

so is change of religion necessary for the untouchables.

The underlying motive in both is the desire for freedom.

The Congress committee has reiterated Mahatma Gandhi's principles of non-violence

while giving Britain support in the war efforts

but only on the condition of an assurance of complete freedom for India.

On the other hand, Dr.Ambedkar's Independent Labour Party

has given a total and unconditional support

to Britain's war against Fascism.

I believe that the Nazism is a menace to the future of all mankind.

This is the war between dictatorship and democracy.

The dictatorship based not on any moral order,

but on racial arrogance.

The Congress doesn't seem to understand this.

Do they want to exchange the British for the Nazis?

Are you alright Miss Epstien?

As you probably know,

I am Jewish

returnee from Germany.

My family is still there.

They have been reported missing.

They may be in hiding.

I fear for them.

I am so sorry.

Dr.Ambedkar today expressed his views that there was nothing wrong

in sharing power with the British government.

He added that, without their support,

he would never have been able to solve the lab our problems,

or establish the people's education society.

Dear Ms.Drescher,

I have some sad news.

Fanny is no more.

I could not write the criticism on the Bible as promised.

But I have dedicated to her an equally important book.

What Congress and Gandhi has done to the untouchables.

And I am glad that she accepted it before she died.

No, Baba Saheb.

In Raag Bhoop,

You are not supposed to play the madhyam.

It is...

Sa... Dha... Pa..Ga..Ri... Sa..Ri..Ga.

Now let's try together. Yes?

Mr. President Saheb,

This constituent assembly

declares its firm

and solemn resolve

to proclaim

India as an independent

sovereign republic

and to draw up for her future governance,

a constitution

wherein the territories will be governed

by the country.

In substance,

my amendment proposes

we postpone passing this resolution to a later stage

to enable the Muslim League

and the Indian states

to participate if they choose so,

in the deliberations of the assembly.

Now I call upon Dr. Ambedkar to take the floor.

Mr.Chairman,

I am indeed very grateful to you

for having called me to speak on this resolution.

I know today we are divided

politically

socially and economically.

We are a group of warring camps.

And I may even go to the extend

of confessing that.

I am probably

one of the leaders of such a camp.

But sir

with all this.

I am quite convinced

that nothing in the world

will prevent this country

from becoming One.

I have no hesitation in saying that

notwithstanding the agitation of the

Muslim League for the partition of India,

Some day enough light will dawn up on them

and they too will begin to think

that a united India is better

even for them.

It seems you are firm on your stand on Pakistan.

Well Dr.Ambedkar,

in your own words and

thoughts on Pakistan,

you have said

that Hindus think

that Pakistan is a dream of Muslims,

but Muslims know,

that Pakistan is a reality.

No Mr.Jinnah,

I am against your two nation theory.

We should fight for the rights of the minorities

staying on in this country.

Well,

That stage seems to have gone.

Now Pakistan is going to be a reality.

Untouchabilty in any form

is abolished.

And the imposition of any disability

on that account shall be an of fence.

Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jai.

Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jai.

Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jai.

Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jai.

Mahatma Gandhi Ki Jai.

Too many complications Babasaheb.

Diabetes.

Arthritis.

High blood pressure and Neuritis,

too many complications.

You have to very careful Babasaheb.

Well, I will prescribe you some medicines.

Meet my colleague,

Dr.Sharada Kabir.

She will explain you about the diet and other things.

Doctor.

Excuse me

I have to see some patients.

I will be back again.

You will have to take Insulin injection every day.

Besides that diet and exercise is a must.

How is it possible?

But you must do it.

If you want to live longer.

Your people, this country... they need you.

If you want I can come to your home and

explain this to your wife.

I lost my wife 12 years ago, young lady.

Oh, I am sorry!

But there must be somebody at home to look after you?

No.

I have no one.

It is fortuitous,

that Mr.Jaykar has resigned from the constituent assembly.

The Bombay legislative Congress Party

would like you to fill his seat.

Is this agreeable to you?

After two decades of poisoning the atmosphere against me,

the Congress is sending me to the constituent assembly?

Will your party men allow me to work in peace?

The country is passing through a critical phase.

And it needs you.

All people,

irrespective of political parties,

must contribute in building a new India.

Mr. Patel.

Have you consulted Mr.Gandhi?

Yes.

Bappu has no objection,

Jawahar approves of it.

And Rajendraprasad is keen to get you there.

How reassuring to know that!

Now you realise that,

it is possible to be a nationalist

without being a Congress man.

Aren't you happy with the list of ministers, Bappu?

- Namaste Ji. - Namaste.

Who will be in charge of law, Jawahar?

And framing of the constitution?

For the constitution,

we are consulting experts all over the World.

All over the world?

I think a sufferer should

write the constitution of free India.

How about Dr.Ambedkar, Jawahar?

Yes.

History has put this responsibility on us.

I suppose I shall have to carry this blood on my conscience when I die.

Well,

to business then.

Do you know the reason why I requested you to come here?

I would like you to be a part of the national government of free India.

Do you accept?

It depends. What portfolio?

Law.

Will there be enough work?

Plenty.

Don't worry.

A lot of new measures are to be legislated.

Yes.

The Hindu code bill is still pending, isn't it?

Well, we are determined to clear it fast.

I am very glad,

we shall be working together.

Dear Bhaurao,

India is an independent country today.

But will she maintain her independence?

Will the many political parties with

diverse and opposing political creeds

place India above their own cast and creeds.

We must be determined to defend our independence to the last drop of our blood.

Your blood sugar is so high?

No more sugar for you. Who makes tea for you?

They try to remember, but...

No you can't afford to be careless.

No more fruits and no more rice.

At least for a fortnight.

And you need a check up for next week.

There is a meeting of the drafting committee in Delhi.

I have to be there for a week.

I wonder who is going taking care of you in Delhi.

Dear Chitre,

My work in the draft constitution has increased a great deal.

And on the other hand my health forbids me slightest of strains.

I have considered your suggestion of having somebody to look after my health,

sympathetically.

I have decided to marry Dr.Sharada Kabir.

Babasaheb.

Bapuji was shot dead,

while he was going for the prayers.

'Om mani pad me hum'

'Om mani pad me hum'

Dr. Ambedkar, you sign first.

Then she will sign.

Now I proclaim you as man and wife.

Mr.President sir,

I introduce the draft constitution

settled by the drafting committee

and move that

it be taken into consideration.

Mr. President sir

I am one of those in the house

who are aware of the amount of work

and enthusiasm

that Dr. Ambedkar has brought to back

on the worth of drafting this constitution.

The house is perhaps aware

that of the seven members

nominated by you, one had resigned

and was not replaced

one was away in America

and his place was not filled up.

And another person

was engaged in his state... state affairs.

And there was a void to that extend,

one or two people

were far away from Delhi,

and perhaps

reasons of health did not permit them to attend.

So it happened ultimately

that the burden of drafting this constitution

fell on Dr. Ambedkar.

And I have no doubt

we are grateful to him.

The credit that is given to me does not belong to me.

It belongs partly to Sir. B.N Rau,

the constitutional adviser

to the constituent assembly

who prepared a rough draft to the constitution

for the consideration of the drafting committee.

A part of the credit,

must go to the members of the drafting committee also.

I shall not enter into the merits of the constitution because I feel

however good a constitution may be

it is sure to turn out bad,

because those who were called to work it happened to be a bad lot.

However bad a constitution may be.

It may turn out to be good.

If those who were called to work upon it

happened to be a good lot.

It is therefore

futile to pass any judgement upon the constitution

without

reference to the part,

which the people and their parties are likely to play.

Thank you.

And

sitting in this chair

and watching the procedures from day to day.

I have realised

but no one else could have

with what rare zeal and devotion,

the members of the drafting committee

and especially

its chairman

Dr. Ambedkar

irrespective of his indifferent health

have worked.

In spite of factional objections Nehru was strongly in favour of the

passage of the controversial 'Hindu code bill'

that was put forward by Dr. Ambedkar

whose aim it is to improve the women's lot.

He believes the barometer of an enlightened society

can be discerned by the status of its women.

Dr.Ambedkar

down down.

Dr.Ambedkar

down down.

'Hindu Code Bill'!

Drop 'Hindu Code Bill'

'Hindu code bill'!

Down down.

The Hindu Code Bill

is an insult to Hindu Darm Shasthr.

It casts aspersions

on our holly traditions and Shasthras.

What does Dr.Ambedkar know of Hindu Darm Shasthra?

Does he know Sanskrit?

Has he learned Vedas?

In a revenge

he is out to destroy the Hindu Darm Shasthr

by one blow of this law.

Are we going to allow an untouchable

to touch our sacred God given laws?

Never.

Never.

We shall shed blood.

An uncouth,

unclean,

untouchable,

defiling the laws set

centuries ago

by Bhagvan Sri Krishna.

Bhagvan Manu.

Bhagvat Gita, Vedas, and Upanishads.

- Don't touch. - Hindu laws.

- Don't touch. - Hindu laws

Ambedkar Down! Down!

Ambedkar Down! Down!

Dear Bharao,

There is so much opposition to the Hindu Code Bill from all quarters.

The statue of Buddha.

That Madikelkar is making for Sidharth Collage

is in its final stage of completion.

And so is my decision to embrace Buddhism.

I was always impressed by Buddhism since my childhood

as I had read, 'Life of Buddha'

a book written by Dada Keluskar

a well known writer

also my father's friend

which he gave me as gift.

Buddhism is the only religion

that preaches the three principles of.

Prajna - Knowledge.

Karuna - Compassion

and Samata - Equality.

Buddhism is the answer

to the exploitation in the World.

People today somewhat try to relate Buddhism with Communism.

But Communism is based on force,

and Buddhism is Ahimsa.

It is a democratic system

which is why I have made up my mind,

and advice millions of untouchables to embrace Buddhism.

Babasaheb,

from the Prime Minister's office.

Read it.

You know that we have a good deal of opposition to the Hindu Code Bill,

both inside and outside the house

with the best will in the World... it cannot

be passed in this session.

I can quite understand your disappointment.

Even the marriage and divorce parts of the bill

had ultimately to be postponed.

Atrocious.

Ritu.

Come and take dictation.

For a long time I have been thinking of

resigning my seat from the cabinet.

The only thing that held me was

the hope that it would be possible to give effect to the.

Hindu Code Bill.

But... with its demise...

even the marriage and divorce part of it is killed...

I see no purpose in me continuing as a member.

The Hindu Code Bill was the greatest social reformation

ever undertaken by the legislature in this country.

To leave inequality between class and class

sects and sects.

As in Hindu society, untouched

and to go on passing legislation on economic reforms

is to make a farce of our constitution,

and to build a palace on a dung heap.

Dear Wamanrao Godbole.

I am confident,

that one day,

to protect humanity,

not only India,

but the whole world will accept Buddhism.

So the day of Daksha will be

14th of October 1956

at Nagpur.

Yes, I had promised Gandhiji

that when the time comes.

I would choose the least harmful way for the country.

And

this is the greatest benefit I am conferring on the country

by embracing Buddhism.

For Buddhism is part and parcel of Indian culture.

But won't you loss

reservations and benefits made for untouchables?

Are Brahmins prepared to become untouchables

in return for these reservations?

Why are you quitting Hinduism?

Why don't you ask your fathers and forefathers that question?

Our efforts are to gain basic human rights

and regain our self respect.

But why Buddhism?

Because Buddha's religion is based on morality and ethics

and has no caste.

Because the social gospel of Hinduism is

inequality.

Whereas Buddhism is all for equality.

Because Buddha's teachings are modern

rational and ever contemporary.

There is no Dogma.

He makes you think,

and live by reason.

Except Buddha,

all founders of religions

claimed for themselves the role of saviour.

Buddha was satisfied with being simply a guide.

"Baba Saheb Ambedkar karo pukar."

"Buddh darshana karo sweekar."

"Baba Saheb Ambedkar karo pukar."

"Buddh darshana karo sweekar."

Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato.

Sammasambuddhassa.

Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato.

Sammasambuddhassa.

Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato.

Sammasambuddhassa.

Buddham Saranam Gachami.

Dhammam Saranam Gachami.

Sangham Saranam Gachami.

Panatipata veramani.

Sikkhapadam samadiyami.

Adinnadana veramani.

Sikkhapadam samadhiyami.

Kamesu micchachara veeramani.

Sikkhapadam samadiyami.

Musavada veramani.

Sikkhapadam samadiyami.

Suramerayamajjapamadattana veramani.

Sikkhapadam samadiyami.

Sadhu.

Sadhu.

Sadhu.

My beloved brothers and sisters.

I have renounced the Hindu religion.

And I am embracing the great Buddha.

And his Dharma

based on equality of man

knowledge, right path and compassion.

Hear me my brothers and sisters.

I am no longer a Hindu.

No longer an untouchable,

I am a liberated human being,

A free man,

no longer a slave of tenacious social system.

And so my brothers and sisters.

I here by take a pledge

to dedicate my remaining life

to spread the Dharma

the light of Buddha throughout the world.

And now my dear brothers and sisters.

Those of you who want to follow me

unto the light shown by great Buddha,

should rise and repeat the Sharnatraya

and pledges after me.

I will follow the ten precepts laid down by Lord Buddha

I will follow the ten precepts laid down by Lord Buddha.

I will treat all animals with compassion

I will treat all animals with compassion.

I will consider all men as equal human beings

I will consider all men as equal human beings.

I will accept the Dharma of Gautama Buddha.

And give up my old religion,

which was detrimental to the progress of humanity

and which treats humans with contempt.

I will accept the Dharma of Gautama Buddha And give up my old religion,

which was detrimental to the progress of humanity

and which treats humans with contempt.

With this I am being born anew.

With this I am being born anew.

I shall no more pray to Hindu Gods.

Nor shall I follow the Hindu rituals

I should no more pray to Hindu Gods Nor shall I follow the Hindu rituals.

Henceforth,

The three principles enumerated by the Buddha.

Knowledge.

Right path and compassion

shall guide my actions throughout my life.

Henceforth, The three principles enumerated by the Buddha.

Knowledge, right path and compassion

shall guide my actions throughout my life.

Sadhu! Sadhu! Sadhu!