NEW DELHI: On Ambedkar Jayanti, we revisit the timeless wisdom of Indiaโs foremost social reformer, who made reading not just a habit but a mission.
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and a global icon of social justice, was not only a political thinker but also a voracious reader. It is said that he owned one of the largest personal libraries in the world, with over 50,000 books โ a feat that begs the question: How did he find the time?
As the world celebrates Ambedkar Jayanti today, itโs worth exploring how Dr. Ambedkar managed his time to devour books and acquire vast knowledge that shaped modern India.
Reading Was His Top Priority
Ambedkar didnโt treat reading as a luxury or a weekend hobby. For him, it was oxygen for the mind. He often sacrificed sleep and meals to continue reading.
Even during his student years in Columbia University and London School of Economics, he was often the last to leave the library.
โLife should be great rather than long.โ โ Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Turned Travel Time into Study Time
Ambedkar always made the most of his time. While travelingโespecially by trainโhe carried books, journals, and study materials to avoid wasting even a single hour. Commuting, waiting, and downtime were all opportunities to read and reflect.
Followed a Strict Routine
Despite being a lawyer, economist, social reformer, and political leader, Ambedkar structured his days with discipline.
Specific blocks of time were dedicated purely to reading. This time-bound approach ensured he remained committed to self-education no matter how hectic his schedule became.
Built One of Indiaโs Largest Private Libraries
In his residence named Rajgraha in Mumbai, Ambedkar curated more than 50,000 books โ many sourced internationally. Having access to a wide range of books at armโs reach saved him time and encouraged deeper, uninterrupted study.
Read With a Mission
Ambedkarโs reading was never aimless. Whether he was studying the Buddhist scriptures, British legal systems, Indian caste structures, or American democratic values, every page served a larger goal: to fight for dignity, equality, and justice.
โI measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved.โ
โ Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
What Can We Learn from Him Today?
In an age where endless scrolling and distractions dominate our screens, Ambedkarโs disciplined reading life offers a powerful reminder:
- Make time for knowledge, not excuses
- Use travel time to learn something new
- Treat books as tools for transformation
- Curate your learning environment
- Read with purpose and direction
On this Ambedkar Jayanti, let us remember not just the man who gave us the Constitution, but also the lifelong student whose thirst for knowledge still inspires millions.
