Book Explores Ambedkar’s Message

“My study of the caste problem involves four main points: that is spite of the composite make-up of the Hindu population, there is a deep cultural unity; and there was one caste to start with; that classes have become castes through imitation and excommunication” – Dr. Ambedkar (Collected Works, Vol. 1)

Promod Puri’s recent book which will be launched on April 24 at the Strawberry Hill Library in Surrey,  “Hinduism: beyond rituals, customs, and tradition’s ” is a welcome addition to the constructive dialogue and debate that is now occurring to better understand the challenges and opportunities to address caste based problems.

By facilitating constructive and healthy debates, opening up communication channels, social relations and sharing opportunities, creating an inclusive world where people of diverse religious or political views come attain fraternity, one of the principles of Dr. Ambedkar is not too far from becoming a reality.

Puri’s book is also very timely- and is a great tribute to Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar on his 125th birth anniversary year.

“As a key person in drafting of the constitution he (Dr. Ambedkar) was successful in making adequate inclusion on women’s rights in addition to all other general provisions applicable to all”, notes Puri.

“Ambedkar was a fearless and dedicated soldier who fought to uproot casteism from the contaminated soil of India’s social and religious culture”, adds Puri.

While more is needed to be done to implement principles of fraternity, it is also a matter of pride that Dr. Ambedkar has now earned the well deserved recognition and respect as a nation builder. Celebrations have occurred or are in the works at mainstream institutions across the world. On fine example is Surrey Central Library’s decision to proudly display Dr. Ambedkar related books on its display case.  This is also the first time the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has decided to pay tributes to Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar at all of its mission/consulates across the world. In Vancouver, the His Excellency, Shri Rajiv Chander, earned immense respect by organizing the 125th birth anniversary celebrations at its office on 325 Howe Street in Vancouver.

Puri’s book along with the consulates initiative of celebrating Dr. Ambedkar is a great example of inclusion an bringing  stop to the ‘excommunication’ that was institutionalized an grained as a part of the ‘Indian culture’.

I congratulate and salute all individuals and organizations who are bringing an end to this process of ‘excommunication’ and challenging all to open thee minds and hearts.

Jai Bhim to all,

Jai Birdi
Executive Director
Chetna Association of Canada