Mahaparinirvan Diwas 2025: Every year on 6 December, India observes Mahaparinirvan Diwas, the death anniversary of Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar—known worldwide as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and fondly remembered as Babasaheb. While millions pay tribute to him on this day, very few people know the detailed story of how Dr. Ambedkar passed away and the extraordinary milestones of his life that made him one of the most influential leaders in modern history.

This article presents a complete, well-researched account of Babasaheb’s final days, his contributions, and key facts often asked in competitive exams and interviews.

How Did Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Pass Away?

According to official records available on sci.gov.in, Dr. Ambedkar had been suffering from multiple health issues for several years. His condition worsened significantly after 1955 due to diabetes, weak eyesight, and exhaustion from continuous work.

On the morning of 6 December 1956, Dr. Ambedkar peacefully passed away in his sleep at his residence in Delhi.

This year, India marks the 70th Mahaparinirvan Diwas, honoring his incredible legacy of justice, equality, and social transformation.

Early Life of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

• Born: 14 April 1891

• Place: Mhow Cantonment (now Dr. Ambedkar Nagar), Madhya Pradesh

• Family Background: Belonged to a socially marginalized Mahar family

Despite facing severe discrimination, Ambedkar’s dedication to education transformed his life and laid the foundation for his future fight for equality.

Education

• Completed primary schooling in Satara, Maharashtra

• Completed secondary education at Elphinstone High School, Bombay

• 1912: Completed B.A.

• 1913: Awarded a scholarship to study at Columbia University

• 1916: Completed M.A. thesis on “Administration and Finance of the East India Company”

• Earned a Ph.D. for his thesis “The Evolution of Provincial Finance in British India”

Ambedkar later studied law at Gray’s Inn and earned a D.Sc. degree from the London School of Economics—making him one of the most educated leaders of his time.

Dr. Ambedkar and the Indian Constitution

In 1946, Dr. Ambedkar was elected to the Constituent Assembly of India.
On 15 August 1947, he became Independent India’s first Law Minister.

He was appointed Chairman of the Drafting Committee, responsible for shaping the Constitution of India.

Tributes by Fellow Leaders

• Mahavir Tyagi, a member of the Constituent Assembly, called him the “Chief Architect of the Constitution.”

• Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first president of India, praised Ambedkar for working tirelessly—often despite poor health—to complete the Constitution with extraordinary dedication.

Under Ambedkar’s leadership, the Constitution became one of the world’s most progressive documents, ensuring justice, equality, liberty, and dignity for all citizens.

Conversion to Buddhism

Just months before his death, in October 1956, Dr. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism along with millions of followers. This historic movement, later known as the Dalit Buddhist Movement, aimed to reject caste-based discrimination and promote equality, compassion, and rational thinking.

Posthumous Honors and Legacy

• 1990: Awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor

• 1992: Establishment of the Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF)

  • Purpose: To promote Babasaheb’s vision, ideology, and social philosophy at the national level

DAF continues to organize awareness programs, research initiatives, and social campaigns inspired by Dr. Ambedkar’s teachings.

Important Facts About Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (For Exams & Interviews)

1. Born on 14 April 1891 in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh

2. First Indian to pursue a doctorate in economics abroad

3. Principal architect of the Indian Constitution

4. Independent India’s first Law Minister

5. Led social reform movements against caste discrimination

6. Converted to Buddhism in October 1956

7. Passed away on 6 December 1956 in Delhi

8. Awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1990

9. Founded several journals, including Mooknayak and Bahishkrit Bharat

10. Gave the historic message:
    “Educate, Agitate, Organize”

Dr. Ambedkar’s Famous Slogan

His most impactful slogan, which still inspires millions:

“Educate, Organize, Agitate”

(A call to empower society through knowledge, unity, and continuous struggle for justice.)

This slogan remains a guiding principle for students, activists, and reformers across the world.

Mahaparinirvan Diwas reminds India of the remarkable life and contributions of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a visionary who fought relentlessly against social injustice and laid the foundation of a modern, democratic India. His ideas on equality, education, liberty, and human rights continue to influence not just the Indian nation but people worldwide.

Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy is not confined to history—it lives on in the Constitution, in social movements, and in every effort to build a just society.