Amar Khalsa Shaheed Baba Jeevan Singh Rangreta Ji

Amar Khalsa Shaheed Baba Jeevan Singh Rangreta Ji( His 317th Shahidi Divas falls on 7th Dec, 2020) Let me start with the greeting dear to Shaheed Baba Jewan Singh Ji. Writer Sewadar:- Er.H.R.Phonsa Vaaheguroo jee kaa khaalsaa Vaaheguroo jee kee fatheh !! Baba Jeevan Singh jee was born with the name Jaitha (First son of parents) in an untouchable Hindu family. In the untouchables( Sudras) there is a caste called Ranghar (Raigar, Rehgar, Rehgarh (Engaged as Safai Karmcharies or scavengers). In Latin: first-person singular future passive indicative of rego "I shall be ruled, I shall be governed" ."I shall be guided; I shall be steered, In India Regar is also used for those who are born from the union of a Hindu and Muslim. Literally, the word Regar means dyeing in Rajasthani. The community is involved in the dyeing of leather, and is distributed throughout Rajasthan. They are said to members of the wider Regar community that took dyeing. The community speaks Marwari. There are many sub caste of Regar.....just like Aartiya, Mundetiya, verma etc. The Regar people in India are of different living standard. in some parts of India they have good wealth like Delhi, Jaipur and the number of people having land increasing day by day on the other hand in remote villages they made no progress so they are doing labour work at the fields of zamindars . Many Regars are now successful shoe manufacturers. In the present days Regars of Delhi have good approach to their life they are educating their children well. They are prospering in all aspects of life and contributing in Delhi progress. Their ancestors were brought to Delhi for construction work as a labour for Lutyans Delhi. They are now fighting their cause well. Some of them show sign of wealthy like Jat, Yadavs. People in the Ranghar caste were effectively outcasts from both communities. Furthermore, Bhai Jaitha was from the scavenger or choohra class, which was looked down upon by people of the society. In the Sikh Religion they are called Mazhabies . In Punjab alone the Mazbies are 30% of total Scheduled Caste population which account for70,28,723 persons or 28.9% of total State population divided into 37 Sub Castes as per 2001census. They were traditionally a great warrior sect. Mazbaies and Ramdasias were largely recruited in British Army, before they their recruitment was banned under terms of the Criminal Tribes Act 1871 when the British were informed that it was Shudra soldiers were large in number who fought in the Sepoy Mutiny( First War Of Indian Independence) against British. Matadin Bhangi was ignited the Rebellion spark . The Dalit Dastavej Hindi book, by Shri Panna Lal president Dalit Sahitya Prakashan Sanstha New Delhi writes that as many as7782 Indian brave hearts sacrificed their lives from ( 1857-1947) for the sake of Indian freedom. Among them were 5319 (68. 3%) Shudras (Now SCs, STs, OBC), 1084 ( 14%) Muslims and 1379 (17.7%) from other upper castes. However there was no Criminal Act against upper castes or Muslims, who formed largely the helping hands of British in reigning over India for over 200 years and British also did not interfere their suppression of Shudras. The British recrited Mazhabies and Ramdasia in their armed forces during ww-I& II. Sikh LI soldiers are largely drawn from Dalits. The Sikh warriers against Mugals had majority of Shudras. Bhai Jaitha was born on November 30th, 1649 at Patna to mother Mata Kanno Ji and father Bhai Sada Chand. It is written that he was actually born with the name Jagat Chand alias Jag Chand, which was shortened to Jagu or Jota, and eventually Jaitha. Bhai Jaitha had a brother named Bhag Chand, or Bhagu, and they were Sikhs of Guru Har Rai Sahib Ji. At this time, Bhai Jaitha Ji and his family lived at Kiratpur Sahib where Guru Ji was staying. For some time, Bhai Jaitha Ji and his family moved to the village of Jhanda Ramdas, and lived alongside Bhai Gurditta, the great-grandson of Baba Buddha Ji. This was probably during the Gurgaddi of Guru Harkrishan Sahib Ji. When Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib ji was on the Gurgaddi, by this time Bhai Jaitha Ji was probably in his early twenties. After the plea for help from the Kashmiri Pandits, Guru ji went to Delhi with Bhai Mati Das Ji, Bhai Udho Ji, Bhai Dyala Ji, Bhai Gurditta Ji and Bhai Jaita ( Chima) Ji ( See:-Jiwan Das Guru Sahban by Sondhi Teja Singh Ji). At this time, Bhai Jaitha ( Rangreta) was sent to get news about Bhai Gurditta Ji and Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. Bhai Mati Das was sawn with a Saw and Bhai Dayala Ji was got martyred by emersion in boiled water in Chandni Chowk Delhi to frighten 9th Master Guru Teg Bahadur Ji so that He embraces Islam. Bhai udho and Bhai Jaita ( Chima) were sent back to Anand pur Sahib leaving behind with 9th Master Bhai Gur Ditta. This was as per the wish of the 9th Master Himself. As is well known, the tyrant but coward Moghuls martyred the three Gursikhs and the Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji. The sacred Head and Body of Guru Teg Bahadur were thrown in the open in Chandi Chowk of Delhi, so as to spread terror in the minds of devotees of the great martyr to suppress any protest from them. It was sad spine shivering shocking incident. A gale storm was experienced in the evening, Bhai Lakhi Shah Banjara( Businessman) and his son, Bhai Naghaiya( Decedents of Makhan Shah Labana), took the physical body of the Guru Ji and respectfully cremated the body during lighting their entire house so as be- fool world of showing their joy on the incident, but actually they put house on fire to perform last rights of their beloved Master. The present location of Gurdwara Sahib Rakab Ganj in Delhi stands on the same location. Bhai Jaitha Ji – when saw the sacred Head lying before him he took the physical possession of it. Bhai Jaitha Ji lovingly wrapped Guru ji's head and started on a long journey to Anandpur Sahib. There are so many Sakhies ( Religious stories)of Bhai Jaitha's experiences in this journey - meeting other Gursikhs on is way back and offered them the opportunity to have Darshans( Glimpses) of the Relic . These Guru Sikhs were longing to have darshan of the Guru, and Bhai Jaitha Ji full filled their wishes of having darshans of Guru Ji’s sees (head). The treacherous path, the long and arduous journey that Bhai Jaitha took is only known to him(distance is over 500Kms) and to God Almighty, Waheguru. After risking his own life Bhai Jaitha Ji took respectfully his Master’s served head to Anandpur Sahib. The Mughal King Aurangzeb had ordered that the assassinated body of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur,9th Sikh Master(1 April 1621 – 11 November 1675) be not lifted and be allowed to remain laying in open so as to spread terror among His followers. To remove any body part from the site was to play with fire and sure death to defiler of King’s orders. Shri S. L. Virdhi Advovate has narrated this historic facts in his Punjabi Book “DALIT SHAHIDAN DA ITIHAS”. He writes that Bhai Jetha ji ( later Bhai Jeevan Singh Rangreta) and his father Sadda Nand saw the cut sis( Head) from body of their spiritual master. They wanted to remove the sacred head and carry it to Anandpur Sahib for its cremation as per Sikh traditions. Jetha hit upon a plan to remove the Sis by substitution it with another human head quickly while the Sepoys on duty move away from site in his site rounds. Jetha asked his father to cut his ( Jetha’s) head and replace it with Guru’s Head, there after carry it to Anandpur Sahib. Instead cutting his son’s head Bhai Sadda Nand cut his own head with his sword to help Jetha to execute his plan. Bhai Jetha cleverly removed Guru Ji’s Head , wrapped it in his cloth and carried it to Sri Guru Gobind Singh at Anandpur Sahib, facing numerous difficulties on his way( present distance by road 325 to 360 Kms) however then there was no road and area under rule of Mughals . Mr.Verdi has written in 112 chapters covering thousands of Dalit Shaheeds valour, of sikh history, Indian Independence rebellions besides Caste hates wars. Guru Gobind Singh Ji said" Rangretta,Guru Ka Betta" but how many of us know or remember this fact and extend such respects to Bhai Rangretta's decedents. Upon arriving in Anandpur Sahib and meeting the child - Bala Preetam - Guru Gobind Singh Sahib Ji, Bhai Jaitha jee was honoured. That caste, which was denounced by both Hindus and Muslims --- that class, which was considered lowly and dirty -- was exhalted and given the highest honour. Guru Jee said "Rangreta, Guru ka Beta." Jaitha, of the Ranghar caste, is the son of the Guru. Bhai Jiwan Singh, the son of the Guru, by the 10th Guru's own declaration, is a gift of infinite bliss, immortality, emancipation and honour beyond comparison. At this time, Bhai Jaitha jee was around 26 to27 years old. In Anandpur Sahib, Bhai Jaitha jee became the first Nagarchi, or the drummer for the Ranjit Nagara, the battledrum of victory, in the army of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Bhai Jaitha Ji was a highly skilled in warfare techniques. In fact when Sahibzada Baba Ajit Singh Ji, and Sahibzada Baba Jujhaar Singh ji, the two elder sons of Guru Gobind Singh ji, were growing up, Bhai Jaitha Ji taught them about the art of warfare. In 1691, Bhai Jaitha jee got married to Bibi Raj Kaur ji, daughter of Sujan Singh, in the village of Riar near Amritsar, they had four children. On Vaisakhi of 1699, at the age of 50, along with his wife and the thousands of other Gursikhs, Bhai Jaitha jee was blessed to take khande-ke-pahul and became Bhai Jeevan Singh Jee. As is evidenced in history, the Khalsa forces had to abandon Anandpur Sahib and amidst attacks from the Moghul armies, many of Guru Ji’s army and family were attacked and martyred in the battles that followed. In the battle of Chamkaur, this amazing Gursikh, who by the standards of the cruel society would have been an outcast, a low class scavenger, became a devout Sikh of the Guru, a humble servant of the Guru, a strong warrior in the Guru's army, and above all a true Son of the Guru, who became a Martyer ( Ammar Shaheed) for the cause of the Guru. Fighting bravely alongside the Khalsa army, this warrior general got the blessing of martyrdom in the battle between truth and falsehood. Wikipedia itewww.sikhiwiki.ors>index.>php>Bhai_Jiwan_ Singh : writes Bhai Jiwan Singh Rangreta had stood by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and showed the feats of his bravery in 15 battles. At the place where Baba Jiwan Singh Ji was martyred, Gurudwara Shaheed Burj Sahib is situated . This is said to be the place where Guru Sahib offered Bhai Jaitha “ His KALGI”. This Gurudwara Sahib was situated in the memory of Baba Jiwan Singh Ji. Bibi Sharan Kaur Ji gave a funeral for Baba Jiwan Singh Ji at this place. In the battle of Chamkaur Sahib, the father- in-law Bhai Khajan Singh, younger brother Bhai Sangat Singh and two sons Bhai Sukha Singh Ji and Bhai Seva Singh Ji of Baba Jiwan Singh Ji were also martyred. If any Gursikh wants to know how to be a True child of son of Guru Gobind Singh ji he is advised to look at the self less loyalty, devotion, and love of Baba Jeevan Singh jee towards 9th and 10th Sikh Masters.. Also the Sikh Sangat should not forget their loyalty for standing by the Sikh Masters with their might. So the decedents of Regar community should be shown practical love and affection by Sangat and should not segregate them when intermarrying cases arise. The relation of both Rooti( Bread) and Beeti (Exchange of daughters in marriages) should be adopted which shall strengthened their historical relations. Sikh Sangat was given one common name as “SINGH or LOIN” by the 10th Master discarding all old caste tags, which one observes after the names of the present Singh’s as surnames. This trend needs be arrested by the religious heads. But a new trend in the Sikhs have risen where they carry or write as surnames their old castes as Aroras ,Kapoor, Sudans, Khatries, Balis etc. which need be discurged. They have been given name as SINGH, the warrior non else but by Sri Guru Gobind Singh Himself. Bhai Jiwan Singh Rangreta was with the Guru during the evacuation of Anandpur Sahiband fought the battles of Bhangani, Nadaun, Anandpur Sahib, Bajrur, Nirmohgarh, all four wars of Anandpur Sahib, Bansali/Kalmot and Sarsa. He died in Battle of Chamkaur on 7th Dec,1704 after guru Gobind Singh ji gave him the ((kalghi and chollah)) his clothes for confusing mughals. Bhai Jiwan Singh also wrote about the exploits of Guru Gobind Singh, in his magnum opus the 'Sri Gur Katha'. After his death in 1704 a tomb was erected to honour him at Gurudwara Shaheed Burj Sahib at Chamkaur. Words 2200 Er H.R. Phonsa Jammu He can be reached on zenithrs@yahoo.com and hrphonsa@gmail.com( M-09419134060) Source of Material: 1. Nayar, Rana (5 July 2017). Cultural Studies in India. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-351-57037-4. 2. DALIT SHAHIDAN DA ITIHAS ( Punjabi) by Shri S. L. Virdhi Advovate 3. Wikipedia itewww.sikhiwiki.ors>index.>php>Bhai_Jiwan_ Singh

Guru Ghasidas Ji Maharaj(18 December 1756 to1850)

Guru Ghasidas Ji Maharaj(18 December 1756 to1850) His 245 th Jyanti falls on 18th Dec2020 By: Er.H.R.Phonsa The Bhagati movement started in the fourteenth century and was nourished by saints like Potter Gora Ji Maharaj, Barber Sain Ji, Calico printer cum tailor Namdev Ji, Shoe maker Guru Ravidas Ji, Mahar Chokhamela Ji, Gardner Guru Vithal Ji, Weaver Sadguru Kabir Ji, Guru Baba Nanak Dev with his successors and many others. This socio – revolutionary religious movement challenged the firmly established principles of Brahminical Hindu Dogmas, rituals, ceremonies and took firm roots by the later half of the 18th century. Concerted efforts continued to spread awareness in the Dalit Samaj so as to prick their blunted conscious to revolt against the age old religious slavery or “Caged Religions”. These reforms were taking at a fast pace for the betterment of Dalit Society, illiterate, ill fed, untouchables. These reforms were aimed at achieving sublime principles of liberty, equality, individual dignity, justice based fraternity or brotherhood through mutual support. Besides social vision widening, it resulted in recognition of the bravery and velour of poor masses by opening employment avenues like recruitment in army, police and some other services for them. It is estimated that in 1856 one third Bombay army comprised of soldiers from Mahar community. Battle of Plessey (1753-1763) was fought by Clive mainly with soldiers from Low castes. But on the religious front, Brahminical dominations were firmly holding grounds in the Hindu Society. In Hindu society nothing works with out admixture of Religious beliefs and Caste identifications. Even dacoits & out laws are said to be great Bhagats, Pujari( worshipers) of various deities. On religious fronts many Dalit saints of high reputes were continuing their efforts to bring change in fear psyche about gods, goddesses, unfounded Hell and Heaven concepts controlled by deities, Various God incarnations created by vested interests of religious preachers. One among these towering Dalit personalities was Guru Ghasidas Ji Maharaj (1756-1850) of Chhattisgarh region now independent Union State from 1November,2000, earlier in the Madhaya Pradesh. . He was born in Girodpuri, District – Balodabazar to revered Mahngu Das and Amrotin Mata. Guru Ghasidas’s storey is a storey of morality, truth, love and revolt against biased status quo for the welfare of humanity at large and Dalit Samaj in particular. GuruGhasidas was born in socio-political surroundings of misrule of Loot. The local Land lords had started behaving as Kings. Ghasidas underwent the exploitative experiences specific to Dalit communities, which helped him understand the hierarchical and exploitative nature of social dynamics in a caste-ridden society. From an early age, he started rejecting social inequity and to understand the problems faced by his community and to find solutions, he traveled extensively in Chhattisgarh. As per writes of Historian C.W. Wills, Chhattisgarh presents the remarkable picture of a Hindu government continuing till modern times outside the sphere of direct Mohammedans control. In 1818 Chhattisgarh came under some sort of British control for the first time. In 1854, when the province of Nagpur lapsed to the British government, Chhattisgarh was formed into a deputy commissionership with its headquarters at Raipur. But British did not interfere with the religion based sanctions against Dalits. Government funds continued to be spent on projects having no access to the persons from the Dalit Samaj. Also strict adherence to all rules as per Hindu codes, devised against the progress of Dalit Samaj particularly denial of the right to education, to own property or to have means of decent living with dignity as humans. Dalits revolt against this inhuman slavery based on the one sided codes is very old too. According to the 1991 census the tribal population in the then districts of Chhattisgarh was, Durg -12.6 %, Raipur -18.6%, Rajnandgaon -25.3 %, Bilaspur -23.4 % Surguja -54.8 %, Raigarh - 45.5%, Bastar -67.7 %. The various tribes in the Chhattisgarh region are Gonds, Muria, Bhumja, Baiga, Kanars, Kawars, Halbas etc. The combined population of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes for all India is 23.6% of the total Indian population, but for undivided Madhya Pradesh this figure stood at 37.1%. This proved main cause of creation of separate Chhattisgarh state in Indian Union on the 1st November, 2000. In the nineteenth century a new system of property rights and revenue collection known as the Malgujari settlement was introduced in Chhattisgarh. The new system was implemented with the sole purpose of expropriation and exploitation of marginal farmers, share croppers and farm servants, all Dalits, by the upper caste Malgujars. Satnam Panth and its followers opposed this exploitative system through various strategies. In several cases the Satnamis deserted villages or continued with the process of Lakhabatta or the periodic redistribution of land, despite the implementation of the new system. Their united challenge to the upper caste Malgujars over the issues of rent and loss of land. The nineteenth century was a reflection of the solidarity of Satnamis . This form of protest and response to the new system or property rights and malgujari settlements was widespread among the Satnami of Chhattisgarh. The primary concern of the Anglo Maratha politics in the Nineteenth centuary was of expropriation and consolidation of power. Guru Ghasidas the founder of the Satmani sect realised this. He believed that the politics of the Anglo-Marathas was deprived of morality. He worked towards uniting all downtrodden persons to morally oppose the immoral politics of the British,aided by local landlords, religious peers. The people of Chhattisgarh realised the potential threat of the British and were terror struck by the exploitative nature of their policies. Despite this, they were unable to unite under one flag to oppose the British. It was at this juncture that Ghasidas made efforts to unite the people of Chhattisgarh through the ideology of equality and non-violence. The Kabir panthies, Raidas (Ravidas) panthies respectively followers of Great Revolutionary Dalit Saints Sad Guru Kabir (1398-1518) and Guru Ravidas ( 1414-1532) also contributed to such Dalit revolts for the Dalits liberation movements in a big way. In Central India Dalits revolted against statue quo pro under Halba rebellion (1774-1779) with distinction of being the first documented rebellion against the British and Marathas in Bastar, so Dalits made many sacrifices for their freedom from the yoke of autocracy. The other well known Tribal revolts were Paralkot rebellion (1825), Tarapur rebellion (1842-54), Maria rebellion (1842-63), First Freedom Struggle (1856-57), Koi revolt (1859), Muria rebellion (1876), Rani rebellion (1878-82), Bhumkal (1910). Guru Ghasidas Ji Maharaj , the 16th Satnami Linkage Guru was born on Monday, the 18th December 1756 to revered Shri Mahangu Das and Shrimati Amrautin at village Girodhpuri in Raipur Distt Of Chhattisgarh. Then no body could imagine that a small ray of light in the form of this child shall one day become a religious Guru, social reformer, revolutionary spirited personality with name & fame through out the globe. His parents were Agriculturist Dalit. Ghasidas was younger to his other four brothers namely Nanku, Manku,Ganga and Jogi. Ghasidas being youngest child earned more love and affection from his parents. But the luck had stored some thing else for Ghasidas, his mother died when he was only one year old, so the family fell into blind well of misfortune. The responsibility of earning bread and raring children fell on the shoulders of Shri Mahangu Das. However a good hearted woman in the neighbourhood used to look after Ghasidas when his father was away in fields to attend to his daily agriculturist’s routine duties. She used to tell stories to children in the evening, so they got sleep. On returning home Mahangu Das would bring back his children & slept with Ghasidas keeping him close to his bosom. Satnamis are said to have ancestral family lineage roots from King Parikshit of Great Kuru dynasty. They had concetration in Narnaul Haryana is Mahabharat age Hastinapur Kurukshetra. According to ancient Satnam Granths ( Religious Books) Satnami's are decendent of ancient Kuru family. Satnami's are well built with long hights, faircolour & charactered man. According to beliefs the King Parikshit was the king for whole world. In around (1300–1400AD) the successor of Satnam Dharm was King Saint Satkhojan Das Goswami (The King of Narnaul Kurukshetra) which carries the family linkage to Ghasidas. Grand father of Ghasidas shri Modinidas Gosain had migrated from Narnaul in Haryana due to apathy of Aurangzeb regime against Satnami sect. As Satnamis very industrious peoples never compromised with their honour & dignity so are said to have fought against Aurangzeb, but lost in 1672 battle. Madinidas Gosain left his native place in Haryana and reached a jungle about 120 kms away from Raipur Distt Headquarter in Madhaya Pradesh (now Chhatisgarh). This barren land was cultivated by the tribe of Madinidas Gosain and named it as village Ghiround which is the present day Giround Puri Dham. When Ghasidas grew up a little, Shri Mahangu Das would carry him along to fields where the child kept himself busy in play in the ploughed field. Ghasidas had seen the miseries from a close angle, so in his life time he always saw that the suffering community get soothing balm from his actions. When Ghasidas was of four to five years old, he used to play in the field with other boys of his age group. Once a deadly poisonous snake did bite a boy, who started crying with pain. Ghasidas came to his rescue and started sucking the poisonous blood of the suffering boy with his mouth. While sucking the blood Ghasidas got also affected with poison, but his father saved him by providing him treatment. Shri Mahangu Das like his father shri Modinidas Gosain was an expert physician with knowledge of medicinal herbs and plants. They carried respect in the locality for this medicine expertise. This incident shows the bravery of the child Ghasidas. He used to exhibit love for the young ones and deep respect for elders. As child he would save the life of drowning persons, give his bread to a hungry person, guide some helpless person to his home and such other selfless helping jobs. This way Ghasidas earned affectation and admiration not only from his relations but from whole area people. His name became common in every household. Guru Ghasidas was unlettered visionary as education was beyond his reach. Ghasidas became an expert farmer. He was married at an early age with revered Soofaribai daughter of shri Dev Dutt alias Anjori, of Shirpur village in Yavan Tehsil. The couple is said to have four sons named Amar Das, Balak Das , Agar Das and Argariaya. They also were blessed with one daughter named Subhadra, who latter on got importance as SATI SUBHADRA. Amar Das disappeared in the jungle area never to be found again, which made Ghasidas family sad along with whole community. On one occasion he and his brother started on a pilgrimage to the temple at Puri exclussively reserved for worship of the high caste people. He saw monopali of Brahman preists at Puri where no Dalit person was allowed to perform any pooja, so came both disappointed. But on return when they reached Sarangarh, where they met with one diciple of Jagjivan Das founder of Satnami Mat. He asked them to recite Satnam, Satnam regularly, being NAAM So they returned reciting “Satnam, Satnam”. ‘From ththat time Ghasi Das began to adopt the life of an ascetic, retiring all day to the forest to meditate. On a rocky hillock about a mile from Girod is a large “Tendu” tree (Diospyros tomentosa) under which it is said that he sat and worshiped. This place attained importance as a favourite place of pilgrimage of the “Chamars”, and two Satnami temples have been built near it, which contain no idols. In the course of time Ghasi Das became revered as a saintly character, and some miracles, such as the curing of snake-bites, being attributed to him, his fame rapidly spread . The Chamars began to travel from long distances to go to him for his glimpses (Darshans) and those who entertained desires, such as for the birth of a child, believed that he could fulfil them. The pilgrims even carried away with them the water in which he had diped his feet, in hollow bamboos, and their relatives at home drank this, considering it was relief giving nectar. Finally, he retired to the Sonkar forests for a period of six months. After performing strict ascetism for six months he emerged backn from forest on 28th December1820, with what he called a new Gospel for the Chamars; who had gathered from all parts to hear him This Gospel was repetition of the religious proclaims of Jagjiwan Das, the founder of the Satnami sect of Upper India. The saints by resorting to the proper way of God Realisation, are granted power by the God to perform on His behalf as said by Palto sahib in his Kundli “ Ram Sameepi Sant Hai, Vo jo Karain so hoye” meaning saints have nearness or oneness with RAM, what ever they (saints) do is final as the Creator is with in their commondments. Creator does not interfere with the working of Saints. The saints perform all His duties in His Home “Sachkhand” and thirty three crores of Dieties are afraid of Saints ( As per the Hindus there are 33 crores of devatas or deities). They are powerful to make mountain out of mole or may make a mountain into a mole. And in His kingdom the Saints reign. Sayth Palto no body but saints performs on behalf of Ram, the creator of universe. Saints donot perform wizard acts of performing miracals except in exceptional circumstances. These mystical thoughts are known to Saints, which is beyound human conceptes and are devoid of scientific expanations. But later on their real teaching get buried under the shrouds of falseness associated with the Saints by the vested intrests. Guru Ghasi das passed away in1850. Some historians say he lived for 93 years. Through out his life he worked for the benefit of the humanity, opposed untouchability and bised treatmrnt to Dalits, advised them to share joy & grief, salvation can be attained during life time and to worship dead is foolishness, offering materials to God for salvation is illussion, he advocated for Peaceful co existance and decried killing of living things, all yogies, priests, beggers are not Saints, abstrain from intoxicants including meat eating, supported widow marriages, condummed Tantrik Excercises for granting or obtaining promised boons. The main teaching of Guru Ghasidas is recitation of SATNAM meaning true name of the Formless, Almerciful Almighty God . God does not recognise the castes, creeds, clour, place of birth, sex, socialor educational and meterial status of a Bhagata. He advised his persons to work hard , have simpe living and provide good nurishment to their families along with reciting SATNAM-SATNAM. Kindness, truthfulness, patiance, take practical view of things and happening in life.The Seven Main Teachings of Satguru Ghasidas can be summed up as :- 1. Satya - Truth \ True Action 2. Dhairya - Patience 3. Lagan - Dedication 4. Karoonna, Dayaa, Kshamaa - Kindness, Pardon, Non violence 5. Karm – Karm Yog - Labour 6. Saralataa - Simplicity 7. Vyavahaar - Vyavahaarikata - Practility – Practical Life Words:-2527 Suggsted futher reading books/material:-1)Guru Ghasidas Sachiter Jivini(Hindi) Dr. N.P. aherwar Samyak Prakashan New Delhi 2)Guru Ghasidas Wikipedia-free encyclopedia. 3)Dalit Movement In India and its Leaders(1857-1956) K.R. Khirsagar ,MD Publication New Delhi 4)http://www.gutenberg.org/files/20583/20583.txt 5) Hamare Dalit Gourav BDSA Delhi

Why Manusmriti was Burnt

Why Manusmriti was Burnt ( On the eve of 93 Anniversary of Manusmriti Burningfalling on 25th Dec,2020) By:- Er. H. R. Phonsa Ninety two years ago today, that is, on December 25, 1927, Baba Saheb Dr.Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar( Now Bharat Ratna) burned Manusmriti as a symbol of rejection of the religious based high and low caste divisions. This caste divide among Hindus continue to block all progressive channels for the untouchables ( now Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes). Caste based untouchbility caused insurmountable numerous miseries including blocking of all progressive and honorable means of livelihood of low caste Hindu religious human skeletons classified as Sudras, Ati Sudras ,blocking their legitimate right to ask for Human Rights. This was cause of burning a book written by Manu sometime circa 200 B.C. This human unnatural divide book was also known as Manav Dharam Shastra, is the earliest metrical work on Brahminical Dharma in Hinduism. According to Hindu mythology, the Manusmriti is the word of Brahma, the Creator of universe and it was classified as the most authoritative statement on Dharma. The original book was in Sanskrit Language and was said to be written to maintain rule of the land on vedic concept. The MDh [Manusmriti] was the first Indian legal text introduced to the western world through the translation of Sir William Jones in 1794. The book written to divide human duties have resulted in permanent divide of Labour, so said Dr. Ambedkar. It was not with out a special reason, to burn a book, for a world class scholar, who owned world’s biggest private library with over 50,000 books. Dr. Ambedkar was the greatest book lover of his times. Baba Saheb not only burnt Manusmriti the inhuman divide of human but gave Free India its Constitution based on rule of Equality, individual Dignity to generate Fraternity. So he is also called Modern Manu and the father of Indian Constitution. Why it was thought to burn Manusmiriti Manusmititi is a Hindu Law code book which denies/denied all human rights to untouchable( Now called Scs, STs, OBCs) and all women irrespective of her caste affiliations. The event was arranged during the Mahad Satyagraha. Mahad Satyagraha was perhaps first fight in world history to exert right to take water from public water bodies by human who were classified as Hindus Shudras. It was also a declaration to fight by Untouchable to regain their lost humanrights and dignity, which was denied to them till then. For Baba Saheb a committed advocate for untouchable and women’s rights for their emancipation from prevailing inhuman slur.So it was a political action to burn Manusmriti in full public view as Baba Sahib was convinced that the book entailed the rules preaching inhumane treatment not only towards women but also “Untouchables”, in all walks of life both in private or public spheres. It was clear revolt against Brahmanism by their religious brothers untouchables, by Dr. Ambedkar the highest intellectual scholar with topmost academic qualifications as University of Mumbai (B.A., M.A.) Columbia University (M.A., PhD) London School of Economics (M.Sc., D.Sc.) Gray's Inn (Barrister-at-Law), whoalso knew ten languages. The actual burning of Manusmiriti on 27th Decemember 1927 was joined among others by Saraswati Brahmin Gagadhar Neelkanth Sahasrabuddhe affectionately called as “Bapu” by his Ambedkarite admirers,who was a committed volunteer of the Samaj Samata Sangha founded by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and served in the Social Service League as its chief. R.K Kshirsagar in his book “Dalit Movement in India and its Leaders( 1857-1957)” writes that Gagadhar Neelkanth Sahasrabuddhe alias Bapu saheb was a Brahmin by caste, social worker and actually he burnt the Manusmiriti in full public view at Mahad where besides many others P.N. Rajbhoj, B.K. Giakward, Mr. Sitaram Shivtarkar and Dr. Ambedkar were present with their thousands of followers. Bapu Saheb Sahasrabuddhe was the Secretary of the Municipal Kamgar Sangha (Worker’s Union) led by Dr. Ambedkar. He served as the editor of the Janata till 1955. This fortnightly paper later weekly was initially started by Dr. Ambedkar on 24th November 1930 as a special tool to support and publicize policies and programs of Depressed Classes Movement. The weekly was later renamed as Prabhuddha Bharta on Dr Ambedkar’s directions on 4th February 1956. Another site (www.ambedkar.org) article “Manusmiriti Dahan Din” by Dr. K. Jamanadas has mentioned that a "vedi" was created beforehand to burn Manusmriti. Six people were labouring for two days to prepare it. How the act was performed: A pit six inches deep and one and half foot square was dug in, and filled with Sandle wood pieces. On its four corners, poles were erected, bearing banners on three sides. Three sides Banners said, 1. "Manusmriti chi dahan bhumi", i.e. Crematorium for Manusmriti. 2. Destroy Untouchability and 3. Bury the Brahmanism. On 25th December, 1927, at 9 p.m., the book of Manusmriti was kept on this and burned at the hands of BapuSaheb Sahastrabuddhe and another five six Dalit Sadhus. At the meeting there was BabaSaheb's historical speech. The main points of speech: We have to understand why we are prevented from drinking water from this tank. He explained Chaturvarna, and declared that our struggle is to destroy the fetters of Chaturvarna; this was the starting point of the struggle for equality. He compared that meeting with the meeting of 24th Jan. 1789, when Loui XVI of France had called a meeting of French people’s representatives. This meeting killed king and queen, harassed and massacred the upper classes, remaining were banished, property of the rich was confiscated, and it started a fifteen year long civil war. People have not grasped the importance of this Revolution. This Revolution was the beginning of the prosperity of not only France but whole of Europe and has revolutionized the whole World. He explained French Revolution in detail. He then explained that our aim is not only to remove untouchbility but to destroy chaturvarna, as the root cause lies there. He explained how Patricians( Rich and ruling class people) deceived Plebeians( all others eexcludingPatricians) in the name of religion. The root of untouchbility lies in prohibition of inter-caste marriages, that we have to break, he thundered. He appealed to higher Varnas to let this "Social Revolution" take place peacefully, discard the Sastras, and accept the principle of justice, and he assured them peace from our side. After the Manusmriti was burned four resolutions were passed and a Declaration of Equality was pronounced. He further declared, that if unfortunately, this burning of Manusmriti does not result in destruction of "Brahmanya", we will have to either burn the "Brahmanya-grast" people (i.e. affected by Brahmanism), or renounce Hinduism. He sincerely tried for three decades to convince Hindu leaders to mended inhuman rules of Hinduism towards their religious brethren untouchables . But Hindu political and religious leaders paid no heed to his advises, so he finally embraced his ancestral faith, Buddhism on 14th October,1956 with Lacs of his followers, making a history of sorts, as never before such a large numbers of persons, willfully left a religion of their ancestors followed for centuries. Let each Dalit on this historic day, the 25th December have self introspection whether he/she has adhered to the advice of their emancipator, if not why not. They must evaluate the loss they have suffered for not following ideals of their liberator. They must think of correction in their actions so far ignored. Their emancipator Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar lost his four kids,his wife besides his life comforts for welfare of his people. He died under debit of rupees Forty thousands. His followers need to think for the good future of their generations with dignity. Let the Dalits know that till Baba’s written Constitution is alive they are alive. They should save it as their first religious act. Baba Saheb’s real followers need to salute those who organized Manusmriti Dehan, burnt it and witnessed this scene ,93years hence and also for showing way to their future generations to fight for their legitimate rights. But now their every protest or fight should be under Constitution frame work. Words1333 Dated 25-12-2020

Brief Account of Dr. Ambedkar’s Activities of His Last Five Days

Brief Account of Dr. Ambedkar’s Activities of His Last Five Days By : Er. H.R. Phonsa Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar remained off fully busy even during his life’s last five days. To him time was knowledge. Here is brief of the same. December 1, 1956 , Baba Sahib got up even earlier than his usual time of 7.15 am morning. After morning ablutions, prayed before Buddha Bust, walked in to front veranda, took exercise including yogic asana. Then sat on an easy chair facing sun, took a cup of tea and glanced through morning news papers. He took second cup of tea which had a little sugar added. He asked Rattu to see him at the entrance of the Mathura Road exhibition from 1.30 p.m which shall visit that day. He was escorted to Buddhism Art Gallery , saw Buddha portraits, art pieces, paintings, busts, statues, besides meeting many people who had gathered there , gave back a long look back from entrance, repeating twice “ My Buddha was great”. He met his close confidant Sohan Lal Shastri at the gate, who too had come to visit Exhibition. Shastri asked “Baba Saheb , why the faces of any two portraits, Statues, painting of Lord Buddha do not resemblances of faces, ears and other body parts”. On this Baba Saheb replied till after 600 years of passing of Buddha there was no portrait, statue, painting of Him. There after people started making portraits, pictures to keep His memories fresh for the future generation. No artist had seen Him, so every artist used his imagination, so different minds, produced different art pieces. On way he had a glance of his earlier residence Kothi 1, Harding Avenue, visited his favoured book shops in Connaught Palace, glances throw new additions and ordered some books to be sent to his residence. on returning back to his residence, sat on a sofa took a cup of tea and then busied in his routine writing. Mr.N.C Rattu accompanied him, to whom he again called at 4p.m gave him a rare book of 200 pages on Buddha , borrowed from a Muslim friend with a promise to return next day. Baba Sahed asked Rattu to quickly type it. Rattu discussed the matter with Dada Sahib B.K. Giakward, who arranged 5 type writers and 3 typists. Two boys who stayed in the outhouse of Baba’s Kothi, 26th Alipur Road were also deputed on the assigned job. The tying continued night long. Rattu stayed back in the Kothi. Dec 2nd , 1956. Baba Saheb got up from his sleep at 7.30 am. His servant came to call Rattu .He took the typed copy of the book and presented to his master. He happy to see house job done, held the book in his hands said to Rattu “ you have done indeed a wonderful job today, I must thank you for the same”. His Holiness the Tibtean spiritual head Dali Lama ,had come to India for celebration of 2500 Buddha Mahaprinirvana at Bodh Gaya. He was to be honoured in Ashok Vihar, Mehrauli, New Delhi on 2nd December,the Sunday, and Dr. Ambedkar was also invited by organisers to grace the occasion. Dalia Lama was greatly pleased to see Baba Saheb in the his receiption and called Baba Saheb as “Bodhisatva”. Baba Saheb said if hehad lived two more years he would have transformed India into a Buddhist country. Here an old man told Shankranand Shastri that Dr. Ambedkar was breath is lost soon and he may not live even for a week more. Baba Saheb’s reaching the venue news had gone viral and people in large number had reached there to have Darshan ( glimpse) of their saviour. As Baba Saheb had not to address the gathering, he watched the function as a spectator and, returned back is residence by 2p.m. Had a cup of tea before busying himself with completing last chapter of his under taken “Buddha and Karl Marx” book . In the evening a large number of his followers came to see him and to complaint about erratic working style many of his party functionaries and also informed him the destructive roll of some of the party leaders. He listened them patiently and advised them not to get frustrated telling them he was making soon formation of RPI. These people went back fully satisfied. He returned to his drawing room, sat on a sofa and asked for playing his favourite Buddha songs on radiogram. Servant came to inform him dinner was ready. He then entered kitchen had his dinner of little rice and retired Then entered his bed at 10.40p.m. holding a book in his hand. Rattu did not go his home that day also. Dec 3rd ,1956 When Rattu got up ,he saw Baba Saheb still asleep at 7.30 am. Rattu left for his office on by cycle. At 12Oclock Baba Saheb ranged Rattu to come back early as some important was to be attended by him. Rattu came back2pm. Baba Sahib ‘s mood was little disturbed, he asked Rattu to put some chairs in the lawn as some of his devotees were waiting outside , he wanted to meet them.Baba Saheb met a few devotees around 2pm and had his lunch in the Lawns. A group photograph was taken. Baba Saheb went to see his old ailing Chokidar Ram Chandra ,who was living with his wife in a room by the side of main entrance. Ram Chander attended to Baba Saheb even till late in the night. Ram Chander was running temperature since last three days. And was worried about his wife after his passing away, as they had no family or near relations. Baba Saheb consoled Ram Chandra, saying “Every body have to die, one day or other. Why then to worry. There is no escape from death”. I am not worried of death, so said Baba Saheb. Then Baba Saheb drew close to Ram Chandra consoled him assuring him, they will take his full drawing room and thrust him in to a sofa, he was looking quite disturbed. Rattu displayed on radiogram Buddha songs of his liking. When Rattu went to give medicines to Ram Chander , he was full of praises and gratitude’s to his Saheb,saying his Bhagwan had come to see him. Rattu then returned the typed last chapter of the Buddha and Karl Marx. Baba gave Rattu more hand written sheets for typing; he typed those pages by 11.30 pm in the night and retired there. Dec4th, 1956. When N.C Rattu went to take Baba ‘s permoission to go to his office, he was asked by his master to wait saying,he was going to Parliament House and shall drop him in office . Both reached Parliament House at 10.30 am, Rattu helped Baba Saheb to climb a few steps and was about to leave him to go to his office, nearby, Baba Saheb asked Rattu to wait for him till he came out. Rattu went quickly to his office, explained his position, took permission from his seniors and reached back the Parliament gate within 15 minutes. Baba Saheb came out of House after two hours and dropped Rattu in his office then drove back home. Baba took meals and went into sleep. Mrs Savita Ambedkar and Dr. Malvankar went out for shopping, but came back when Baba had already asked about his wife a number of times from his servant Sudama . Sudama helped Baba Saheb to go to bath room. After that he sat on the tilting chair and asked for a cup of tea. On the absence of his wife from the house Baba Saheb was greatly upset. Seeing him so Sudama informed Rattu on telephoned , to come soon. Rattu Ji came back at 5.30 p. m and found Baba Sahib greatly upset. Baba asked Rattu if, Dr. Savita had come back, he told in negative. Rattu was given some typing work. When his wife came along with Dr. Malvankar from Bazaar, furious Dr. Ambedkar gave her lot of rebukes, she came out of room and asked Rattu to pacify Baba Sahib. Rattu did it, diverted his attention by reading evening news paper headlines. In the evening Baba Sahib dictated two letters one each to P.K.Atre and S.M Joshi, Maharashtian in opposition Congress Party, leaders asking them to join RPI, which he had planned to start soon. Baba saheb asked for incomplete typed script of “ Revolution and counter Revolution in Ancient India” book. Gave some hand written papers, newspaper cuttings for typing to Rattu, asking him to keep those in a separate file, remind him after 3-4 days about those papers. One Visnu Kumar Kardak, Sidhartha Night School Astt. Head Master, who had converted along with his fiancée to Buddhism on 14 Oct.1956, had sought Baba Sahib’s advice for his marriage in the Buddhist way. His marriage was slated to be ceremonised on December 9,1956. Baba dictated a letter for Kardak with the following advice on performing marriage in Buddhist way. It is simple. There is no “ Hom and there is no Saptapadi. The essence of the ceremony lies in placing an earthen pot,newly made between the bride and the bride- groom on a stool and to fill it brimful with water. The bride and the bride- groom to stand on two sides of the pot. They should place a cotton thread in the water pot and each hold one end of the thread in their hands. Someone should sing the Mangal Sutta. Both the bride and the bride- groom should wear white cloths”. Late in the evening he dictated a letter for the Honourable Secretary, Buddha Sasana Council Rangoon( Burma),recalling their earlier meetings at Kathmandu and New Delhi regarding the ways and means for financing the Buddhist Movement. He also reminded him of his( Dr. Ambedkar’s) memorandum submitted to Buddha Sasana Council dated 19 July,1954. He also told the Secretary that the time was ripe as “ like striking iron when it was hot”, for spread of Buddhism movement. Rattu Ji came back to Baba’s bed room at 23.40 hours, when he was given more typing work and asked to stay back in the Kothi. Rattu finished the typing at about 1.30 am, kept it on a table under a paper weight in front of Baba Sahib chair. 5th Dec.1956 Baba Saheb woke up at 3.30 am, Rattu ji helped him to go to bath room. On coming back he asked Rattu to lie him down, took some rest ,saying do not worry he was alright. Baba Saheb got up from sleep at 7am, Rattu helped him to go to bath room. Baba Sahed washed his face, came out, stood before small Buddha image for a while, then came to verandah and sat on a mat, did some prayers and yoga Asana. He then occupied a chair, glanced through news papers and had a cup of hot tea. Rattu left for his office. At 12 noon Rattu got a telephone call from Baba Saheb, asking the fate of the typing important papers he gave him last night. Rattu Ji informed he did type and keep them on his table near his chair. Baba Saheb Cried they were not there, come and give them to me. Rattu came back at 1.30 pm, found the papers missing, searched these out but no success. Meanwhile Dr.Savita Ambedkar quietly placed papers before Rattu, who gave those to Baba Saheb. He queried where the papers had gone, Rattu told, the servant had kept them aside while cleaning the room. Baba Saheb again said,” How here anybody dares to touch them, as I have told everybody not to remove any paper from my room without my knowledge”. Telling truth by Rattu could have created havoc. He then patted Rattu for his running back from his office on bicycle, to trace papers, which was quite far off. Baba Saheb asked to put some chairs in the lawns as he wanted to sit in the sun and take rest. But soon there was uproar outside. A large number of his followers carrying party flags and shouting slogans entered the main gate. Baba saheb although tired met them, had chat with them. This way they all had his Darshans, not knowing that was their opportunity to see and meet their saviour. They went back shouting “ Baba Saheb Zindabad”. Just then his pet dog Mohini came and sat in his lap, Baba Sahed fondeled her for some time. Shortly thereafter Bhagat Amin Chand , President Harijan Leage Delhi, wearing spotless Gandhi Suit came and touched Baba Saheb’s feet, stood in reverence for some time then occupied a chair. When asked, the purpose of his visit, Bhagat replied he had come for your darshans and blessings. Baba Saheb said you people have enough of blessing already, why you come to waste his time? On this Bhagat Ami Chand replied , Baba Sahib, we in the Harijam League are enjoying fruits of your struggle, and sacrifices, for which we are grateful. More you abuse us more benefits are showered on us by Congress Party”. Baba Saheb looked at him closely, listened what he said and had a loud laughter. N.C.Rattu described in his book, that as “ last laugh”. Baba replied “Alright”, “Goaded by your conscience, go your own way, enjoy the benefits you drive from the Congress Party and the Hindus but do not also forget the grateful of your benefactors, the bread givers, like a dog, whom left- over food is thrown from a distance by its master, while relishing it, never forgets the kindness of his master and the beneficiary, wave its tail in gratitude”. Bhagat got up, concealing his smile, touched Baba Saheb’s feet and left the place. Baba Said to Rattu, Just see, to what level they can fall, having no sense or respect for dignity, just to fill their bellies. Baba Saheb indeed had a great dislikes for such politicians for their destructive roll, they not only bring miseries but disgrace also to community. At 8O’clock in the at night a delegation of Jains came to meet Baba Sahed as per previously fixed meeting.Baba Saheb was not in mood to see them,but still did. They gave a book “ Jain Aur Buddha” and requested him to attend a function next morning to discuss some common points about Buddhism and Jainism with their Muni. Baba Saheb promised to attend, only if his health permitted and asked them to check on phone before coming to escort him to meeting. Even during their meeting Rattu was anointing his head with oil, which gave him some relief. On departure of the Jainies. Baba Saheb closed his eyes was singing in feeble voice. Soon the voice became a little louder and Rattu listened the song wording as“ Buddam Sharnam Ganshami, Dramam Sharnam Gashami, Sangam Sharnam Gashami”. Then Baba Saheb asked Rattu to play on radiogram his favourite pre recorded Buddha songs. Baba Saheb started sing and playing his fingers with the Sofa side fully in consonance of radiogram music. He was still under the spell of song, when Sudama his servant came twice in succession to tell, dinner was ready. Baba Saheb said he will take only little rice and nothing more. While passing through main hall , housing large library. Baba moving with Rattu’s help, sat down in a chair near a table, took out his pen from a small iron box, looked up to some papers. Servant again came, Baba Saheb got up , walked looking at his books. He checked the new arrival of book he ordered 2days earlier.He took out some books from almirahs and gave to Rattu to place them on his table near his bed. Before entering dining table he had a long look on his lifelong friends, his books, which were dear to him even more than anything else. He was helped to sit on a chair near kitchen , took some rice, pushed the plate with some left over rice asking Rattu to take. He asked Rattu to message his head, Rattu did it , After some time he got up from the chair with the help of a staffer uttering “ Chal Kabira Tera Bhav Sagar Dera”. He moved a bit then again turned to have glimpse of his books, perhaps not knowing it was his last glimpse.” They moved to the bed room, he sat on the bed and asked Rattu to press his legs. It was around 23.30 hours, and Rattu wanted to go home and take rest, as he was continuously without rest for the last four days. Rattu humbly asked , Baba Saheb, if he had to stay back or go home that day. Baba Sahed said him to go his home. When Rattu reached main gate, the servant came running, asking him to come back as Baba Sheb wanted him back. Rattu went back. Baba asked him to hand him over the two draft letters written to Atre and Joshi and to , Buddha Sasna Council and also typed copy of the preface and introduction which he will go through when you go home. He also asked Rattu to come early next morning as those letters were to be despatched positively next morning without fail. Rattu asked if Baba liked he would fore going home and stay back. Baba said no, you have not gone your home for the several days past and expressed his gratefulness for Rattu doing so. Baba also told Rattu, he was alright, you should not have worries. Rattu bowed in reverence which proved to be the last. So that day Baba woke up at 3.30 am and retired well after 12O’clock in night. This way he worked over 20 hours even on his last day of life. Words 2661 Dated 07-12-2020 Material Source: Last few years of Dr.Ambedkar by Nanak Chand Rattu 2. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the messiah of Down trodden by Janak Singh. 3. Dr.Ambedkar,Life and Mission By Dhananjay Keer. 4.My Experiences and Memories of Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar by Shankranand Shastri.

YASHWANTRAO AMBEDKAR alias BHAIYASAHEB (1912-1977)

YASHWANTRAO AMBEDKAR alias BHAIYASAHEB (1912-1977) (Remembering him on his 109th Birth Anniversary falling tomorrow the 11th Dec,2020) By: Er.Hem Raj Phonsa( E.Mail hrphonsa@gmail.com) Shri Yashwantrao Ambedkar was born as the first son and the only survived child out of the five children of Dr. Ambedkar. Shri Yashwantrao Ambedkar had other three brothers named as Ramesh, Gangadhar, Raj Rattana and one sister named Indu. Year 1912 proved lucky as Bhimrao Ambedkar passed his B.A. Examination and Yashwantrao was also born on December12,1912. Yashwantrao was born about two months before the death of his grandfather Subedar Ramji Shakpal who passed away in February 2,1913. Yashwantrao was the name given to new born by his grandfather .Although Yashwantrao was admitted to school in his childhood, but he could not get education as per the wishes of his father. It was due to fact that Dr. Ambedkar mostly stayed away in foreign land to equip with higher education and at home his wife Ramabai did not keep good health, coupled with never-ending financial problems. Dr. Ambedkar tried to rehabilitate him in business and also a building contractor and even tried establish a cement factory for his son but could not succeed in his efforts due to various reasons. But Bhaiyasaheb Yashwantrao was interested in printing of the literature written by his father, so he established a printing press at Bombay (now Mumbai) named as "Buddha Bhhushan Press". Shri Yashwantrao Ambedkar was married to Neera alias Meera who was later popularly called Meera Tai. Besides having some ideological differences between son and father Yashwantrao Ambedkar always stood by his father in thick and thin, and never did anything that was against the reputation of his family. His loyalty to his father was absolute. On the death of his mother, Yashwantrao wept bitterly and had the feeling of isolation as Dr. Ambedkar was busy with his other social, literary and political affairs. Dr. Ambedkar's social commitments left little time to attend to the problems of his only son. When Dr Ambedkar decided to re-marry with Dr .Sharda Kabir, Yashwantrao Ambedkar objected it. But the son’s protest was over ruled by his father. He tried to maintain cordial relationship with his step mother. After the sad demise of his father Yashwantrao Ambedkar kept himself busy with family affairs and social up-liftment of neo Buddhists. Being the only son of first Law Minister of India and the Father of Indian Constitution, Yashwantrao lit the pyre of his father on 7th December1956. Shri Yashwantrao was one among over million to embrace Buddhism on 14th October, 1956 on the call of Dr. Ambedkar. More than ten lakh (all India radio quote the figure of seven Lakhs) embraced Buddhism on this fateful day. After the death of "Bodhisattva". Dr. Ambedkar, President of Bhartiya Boddh Mahasabha , Yashwantrao Ambedkar was made to head it as its President.. Yaswantrao continued the efforts to spread Buddhism in India, so the population of Buddhists rose to over 58 Lakhs in 1961 census and over 92 Lacs in 2011. He organized struggle to obtain 40'x40' land plot in Dadar, Bombay for Dr. Ambedkar memorial as "CHAITANEY BHUMI" Yashwantrao Ambedkar organized long march from Mahu to Mumbai( 25th March 1966 to 14th April, 1966) to carry Bheem Jyoti, which spread Dr. Ambedkar's message to millions of Dalits across the country. Bheem Jyoti was lighted by Babu Jagjivan Ram, then Labour Minister and later Deputy Prime Minister of Indian Union saying "Bheem Jyoti is Light House of Secularism. It shall uproot casteism and establish equality in all spheres". Donations received en-route was used to raise Bheem Memorialat 'CHAITANEY BHUMI’. Once Shri Yashwantrao Ambedkar in a deputation met then Prime Minister Morarji Desai, he sarcastically asked Yashwantrao "Who asked you to embrace Buddhism". Yashwantrao replied, "I have embraced Buddhism on the advice of my father, the great Dr. B.R. Ambedkar". Yashwantrao unsuccessfully contested Lok Sabha elections in 1962 from Kopargaon on General seat as RPI candidate. He polled 55527 valid votes against his opponent INC candidate Shri Annasahib Pandurang Shinde who polled 122057 votes. Same year he contested for Lok Sabha from Phillor (Punjab) on RPI ticket, but got defeated. From the very beginning Yashwantrao Ambedkar used to get ill easily. He suffered from neurological and polio ailments of feet. But ill health did not deter him from his duties towards his parents and Dalit Samaj. His maternal Uncle Shanker rao and elder brother of his grandfather Shri Bala Ram used to restore energy to his feet and legs by covering them with sea shore sand. Once Sobha Singh ( Father of Kushwant Singh),Member of Viceroy’s Executive Council holding PWD portfolio called on Dr. Ambedker at his Kothi in Delhi, when Bhaiya Sahib was also present. Soba Singh made an offer to Dr. Ambedkar to allow his son to join former’s business. Soba Singh shall invest money but in profit Yaswantrao shall have 50% share. On this Dr.Ambedkar became ferrous and asked Shakranand Shastri to turn Sobha Singh out of Kothi,which Shastri did. It was this Sobha Singh, who stood eye witness in court against Bhagat Singh freedom Martyr. He was also father of Sardar Kushwant Singh,writer and journalist. Yaswantrao was also dispatched to Bombay same day by Baba Saheb. Shri Yashwantrao Ambedkar was again ill in 1975 but he did not give in and contested election. At last Yashwantrao Ambedkar breathed his last on 17th December 1977 after a prolonged illness in a hospital. His sudden death orphaned his family comprising of three sons and one daughter. His sons are named Bala Sahib Prakash Ambedkar, Bhimrao Ambedkar and Anandrao Ambedkar who are respectively married to Madam Anjali, Darsana and Meenakshi. His daughter Shrimati Rama is married with Shri Anand Telantobade. Shri Yashwantrao Ambedkar is also blessed with six grandchildren Sujat, Sahil, Aman (Grandsons) Ratika,Parachi and Rashim( Granddaughter) (This information is as per 6th December 2003, as published in Sab Ke Bhiaya Yashwantrao Ambedkar by Advocate Raosahib Mohan). Shri Yashwantrao Ambedkar's children are living on their hard earned livelihood, keeping high the family tradition of clean, poise and high character life. Bhaiya Sahib Yashwantrao Ambedkar was cremated on the back of the CHAITANEY BHUMI- memorial of his father in Dadar Mumbai. His son Shri Prakash Ambedkar, presently lives in Pune, is engaged in politics and has served as MP twice. Bhaiya Sahib Yashwantrao Ambedkar proved a worthy son of a worthy father and shall be long remembered along with his father Bharat Ratana Baba Sahib B.R. Ambedkar for a poise cause. Words 1080 Dated:-11-12-2020 Material Source: Dr.Ambedkar and His Associates by Er.H.R.Phonsa यशवंतराव अंबेडकर उर्फ भैयासाहब (1912-1977) (उनकी 11 वीं दिसम्बर, 2020 को गिरने वाली 109 वीं जयंती पर उन्हें याद करते हुए) By: Er.Hem Raj Phonsa (E.Mail hrphonsa@gmail.com) श्री यशवंतराव अंबेडकर का जन्म पहले बेटे के रूप में हुआ था और डॉ। अंबेडकर के पांच बच्चों में से एकमात्र जीवित बच्चा था। श्री यशवंतराव अम्बेडकर के तीन अन्य भाई थे जिनका नाम रमेश, गंगाधर, राज रतन और एक बहन जिसका नाम इंदु था। वर्ष 1912 भाग्यशाली साबित हुआ क्योंकि भीमराव अंबेडकर ने बी.ए. परीक्षा और यशवंतराव का जन्म भी दिसंबर 12,1912 में हुआ था। यशवंतराव का जन्म उनके दादा सूबेदार रामजी शकलपाल की मृत्यु से लगभग दो महीने पहले हुआ था, जिनका फरवरी, 1919 में निधन हो गया था।यशवंतराव अपने दादा द्वारा नए जन्मे को दिया गया नाम था। हालांकि, यशवंतराव को बचपन में स्कूल में भर्ती कराया गया था, लेकिन वह अपने पिता की इच्छा के अनुसार शिक्षा प्राप्त नहीं कर सके। यह इस तथ्य के कारण था कि डॉ। अम्बेडकर ज्यादातर उच्च शिक्षा से लैस होने के लिए विदेशी भूमि में दूर रहे और घर पर उनकी पत्नी रमाबाई ने कभी भी अच्छी वित्तीय समस्याओं से जूझते हुए अच्छे स्वास्थ्य को नहीं रखा। डॉ। अंबेडकर ने उन्हें व्यवसाय में और एक भवन ठेकेदार के रूप में पुनर्वासित करने की कोशिश की और यहां तक कि अपने बेटे के लिए एक सीमेंट कारखाना स्थापित करने का भी प्रयास किया, लेकिन विभिन्न कारणों से अपने प्रयासों में सफल नहीं हो सके। लेकिन भैयासाहेब यशवंतराव को अपने पिता द्वारा लिखे गए साहित्य की छपाई में दिलचस्पी थी, इसलिए उन्होंने बॉम्बे (अब मुंबई) में एक प्रिंटिंग प्रेस की स्थापना की, जिसका नाम "बुद्ध भूषण प्रेस" रखा गया। श्री यशवंतराव अम्बेडकर का विवाह नीरा उर्फ मीरा से हुआ था, जिन्हें बाद में मीरा ताई कहा जाने लगा। बेटे और पिता यशवंतराव अम्बे के बीच कुछ वैचारिक मतभेद होने के अलावा यशवंतराव अंबेडकर हमेशा अपने पिता द्वारा मोटे और पतले में खड़े रहे, और कभी भी ऐसा कुछ नहीं किया जो उनके परिवार की प्रतिष्ठा के खिलाफ हो। अपने पिता के प्रति उनकी निष्ठा निरपेक्ष थी। अपनी मां की मृत्यु पर, यशवंतराव फूट-फूट कर रोए और अलगाव की भावना थी क्योंकि डॉ। अम्बेडकर अपने अन्य सामाजिक, साहित्यिक और राजनीतिक मामलों में व्यस्त थे। डॉ। अंबेडकर की सामाजिक प्रतिबद्धताओं को उनके इकलौते बेटे की समस्याओं में शामिल होने के लिए बहुत कम समय बचा था। जब डॉ। अंबेडकर ने डॉ। शारदा कबीर के साथ दोबारा शादी करने का फैसला किया, तो यशवंतराव अंबेडकर ने इस पर आपत्ति जताई। लेकिन बेटे के विरोध पर उसके पिता का शासन था। उसने अपनी सौतेली माँ के साथ सौहार्दपूर्ण संबंध बनाए रखने की कोशिश की। अपने पिता यशवंतराव अंबेडकर के निधन के बाद खुद को पारिवारिक मामलों और नव बौद्धों के सामाजिक उत्थान के साथ व्यस्त रखा। भारत के पहले कानून मंत्री और भारतीय संविधान के जनक के इकलौते पुत्र होने के नाते, यशवंतराव ने 7 दिसंबर 1956 को अपने पिता की चिता को जलाया। डॉ। अंबेडकर के आह्वान पर 14 अक्टूबर 1956 को बौद्ध धर्म अपनाने के लिए श्री यशवंतराव दस लाख में से एक थे। दस लाख से अधिक (ऑल इंडिया रेडियो ने सात लाख का आंकड़ा उद्धृत किया) ने इस भाग्यवादी दिन बौद्ध धर्म को अपनाया। "बोधिसत्व" की मृत्यु के बाद। डॉ। अंबेडकर, भारतीय बोध महासभा के अध्यक्ष, यशवंतराव अंबेडकर को इसके अध्यक्ष के रूप में बनाया गया था। यशवंतराव ने भारत में बौद्ध धर्म के प्रसार के प्रयासों को जारी रखा, इसलिए बौद्धों की जनसंख्या 1961 की जनगणना में 58 लाख से अधिक और 92 लाख से अधिक हो गई। 2011. उन्होंने दादर में 40'x40 भूमि का भूखंड प्राप्त करने के लिए संघर्ष किया, डॉ। अंबेडकर स्मारक के लिए बॉम्बे में "CHAITANEY BHUMI" के रूप में यशवंतराव अंबेडकर ने भीम ज्योति को ले जाने के लिए महू से मुंबई (25 मार्च 1966 से 14 अप्रैल, 1966) तक लंबे मार्च का आयोजन किया। , जिसने देश भर के लाखों दलितों को डॉ। अंबेडकर के संदेश का प्रसार किया भीम ज्योति को तब के श्रम मंत्री और बाद में भारतीय संघ के उप प्रधान मंत्री बाबू जगजीवन राम ने कहा था, "भीम ज्योति लाइट हाउस ऑफ़ सेकुलरिज़्म है। यह जातिवाद को उखाड़ फेंकेगा और ह पैरों की न्यूरोलॉजिकल और पोलियो बीमारियों से पीड़ित थे। लेकिन बीमार स्वास्थ्य ने उन्हें अपने माता-पिता और दलित समाज के प्रति अपने कर्तव्यों से नहीं डिगाया। उनके मामा शंकर राव और उनके दादा श्री बाला राम के बड़े भाई ने समुद्र के किनारे रेत से ढँककर उनके पैरों और पैरों में ऊर्जा बहाल की। एक बार शोभा सिंह (पिता कुशवंत सिंह के पिता), वायसराय की कार्यकारी परिषद के सदस्य पीडब्लूडी के पोर्टफोलियो को दिल्ली में अपनी कोठी में डॉ। अंबेडकर को बुलाते थे, जब भैया साहब भी मौजूद थे। सोबा सिंह ने डॉ। अंबेडकर को एक प्रस्ताव दिया कि वे अपने बेटे को पूर्व के व्यवसाय में शामिल होने दें। सोभा सिंह पैसा निवेश करेंगे लेकिन लाभ में यशवंतराव का 50% हिस्सा होगा। इस पर डॉ। अम्बेडकर फेर बन गए और शक्तिानंद शास्त्री से सोभा सिंह को कोठी से बाहर करने को कहा, जो शास्त्री ने किया था। यह वही सोभा सिंह था, जो भगत सिंह की आजादी के शहीद के खिलाफ अदालत में चश्मदीद गवाह था। वह लेखक और पत्रकार सरदार कुशवंत सिंह के पिता भी थे। यशवंतराव को भी उसी दिन बाबा साहेब ने बंबई भेजा था सभी क्षेत्रों में समानता स्थापित करेगा"। एन-रूट प्राप्त दान का उपयोग भीम मेमोरियल 'CHAITANEY BHUMI' को बढ़ाने के लिए किया गया था। एक बार श्री यशवंतराव अंबेडकर एक प्रतिनियुक्ति पर तत्कालीन प्रधानमंत्री मोरारजी देसाई से मिले, उन्होंने यशवंतराव से पूछा कि "आपको बौद्ध धर्म अपनाने के लिए कौन कहता है"। यशवंतराव ने उत्तर दिया, "मैंने अपने पिता, महान डॉ। बी आर अम्बेडकर की सलाह पर बौद्ध धर्म ग्रहण किया है।" यशवंतराव ने 1962 में कोपरगाँव से आरपीआई के उम्मीदवार के रूप में सामान्य सीट पर लोकसभा चुनाव लड़ा। उन्होंने अपने प्रतिद्वंद्वी आईएनसी उम्मीदवार श्री अन्नसाहिब पांडुरंग शिंदे के खिलाफ 55527 वैध वोट दिए, जिन्होंने 122057 वोट डाले। उसी वर्ष उन्होंने आरपीआई के टिकट पर फिल्लौर (पंजाब) से लोकसभा के लिए चुनाव लड़ा, लेकिन उन्हें हार मिली। शुरुआत से ही यशवंतराव अंबेडकर आसानी से बीमार हो जाते थे। श्री यशवंतराव अंबेडकर 1975 में फिर से बीमार हो गए थे लेकिन उन्होंने चुनाव नहीं लड़ा और चुनाव नहीं लड़ा। आखिरी बार यशवंतराव अंबेडकर ने 17 दिसंबर 1977 को एक अस्पताल में लंबी बीमारी के बाद अंतिम सांस ली। उनकी अचानक मृत्यु ने उनके परिवार को तीन बेटों और एक बेटी को अनाथ कर दिया। उनके बेटों के नाम बाला साहिब प्रकाश अंबेडकर, भीमराव अंबेडकर और आनंदराव अंबेडकर हैं जिनका विवाह क्रमशः मैडम अंजलि, दर्शन और मीनाक्षी से किया जाता है। उनकी बेटी श्रीमती राम का विवाह श्री आनंद तेलंतोबादे के साथ हुआ। श्री यशवंतराव अंबेडकर को छह पोते सुजात, साहिल, अमन (पौत्र) रतिका, परची और रशीम (पोती) के साथ भी आशीर्वाद दिया गया है (यह जानकारी 6 दिसंबर 2003 के अनुसार है, जैसा कि एडवोकेट रोसाहेह मोहन द्वारा सब के भैया यशवंतराव अंबेडकर में प्रकाशित किया गया है। श्री यशवंतराव अम्बेडकर के बच्चे अपनी मेहनत की कमाई से जीवन यापन कर रहे हैं, उच्च परिवार को स्वच्छ, गरीब और उच्च चरित्र वाले जीवन की परंपरा को बनाए रखते हैं। भैया साहब यशवंतराव अंबेडकर का अंतिम संस्कार CHAITANEY की पीछे किया गया BHUMI- दादर मुंबई में उनके पिता का स्मारक। उनके पुत्र श्री प्रकाश अम्बेडकर, वर्तमान में पुणे में रहते हैं, राजनीति में लगे हुए हैं और दो बार सांसद के रूप में कार्य कर चुके हैं। भैया साहिब यशवंतराव अंबेडकर एक योग्य पिता के योग्य पुत्र साबित हुए और उन्हें अपने पिता भारत रत्न बाबा साहिब बी। आर। के साथ लंबे समय तक याद किया जाएगा। एक अचंभे के लिए अम्बेडकर। शब्द 1080 दिनांक: -11-12-2020 सामग्री स्रोत: Er.H.R.Phonsa द्वारा डॉ। अम्बेडकर और उनके सहयोगी

ANNAI SHIVARAJ MEENAMBAL, MADAM (1902-1992)

ANNAI SHIVARAJ MEENAMBAL, MADAM (1902-1992) (Remembering the Visionary Woman Associate Of Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar on her 29th Mahaprivirvan falling tomorrow the 30th November 2020) By: Er. H. R. Phonsa Miss Meenambal was daughter of Mr. Pillai Vasudeo Govindraju, a native of Vallore in Madras, an Adi- Dravida Dalit. Mr. Vasudeo was engaged in business in Burma and was also for some time a member of the Madras Corporation. Then he was nominated as member of the Legislative Council of Madras from 1923 to 1926. Miss Meenambal was born to Mr. Pillai Vasudeo Govindraju on 26th December 1902 at Rangoon in Burma ( Now Republic of the Union of Myanmar). She passed her matriculation from Madurai Pillai High School, Rangoon founded by her father in 1900. When she came back to Madras in 1918, she got married to Rao Bahadur N. Shivraj, a renowned Dalit leader of the South India and a staunch supporter of Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar. Mrs. Meenambal Shivaraj was among the first Scheduled Caste women to receive the honour of being a member of Madras Corporation. She was also elected by the university Senate to represent Madras University in the Corporation. She was a very active and faithful member of the Scheduled Castes Federation formed in 1942 by Baba sahib after dissolving ILP. The Shivraj couple was perhaps the most trusted followers of Dr. Baba Sahib B.R. Ambedkar. Mrs. Meenambal Shivaraj advised the women folk of depressed classes to educate their children, infuse confidence and good character in them. She advised them to liberate themselves from casteism, unclean jobs and domination. Being women activist Mrs. Shivaraj presided over the women's conference of Scheduled Castes Federation, held at Madras on 23rd September 1944 and the All India SCF Women's Conference held at Bombay on 6th may 1945. These two conferences were addressed by Dr. Baba saheb Dr. Ambedkar and Rao Bahadur N. Shivaraj . She unsuccessfully contested the first general elections held in 1952 for the Madras Legislative Assembly, then for Madras Legislative Council in 1952 as SCF candidate and finally she contested for Madras Legislative Assembly as a congress candidate in 1967. Her husband Rao Bahadur N. Shivaraj contested for Lok Sabha Seat in1952, 1957,1962 from the Chengalpatty, Madras( Now Tamil Nadu State ). But he won in the second general elections held in 1957 on RPI ticket for the Lok Sabha seat for Chengalpatty T.N (G and SC) constituency and got elected. The lucky Anni Meenambal Rao Bahadur Shivraj coplewere blessed with two sons and two daughters. They gave them good education. Their son Mr. Dayashakar, IPS (Retd.) looked after Madam Anni Meenambal in her old age as her husband N. Shivraj had passed away on 29th September 1964. She died on 30th November 1992 at a ripe age of 92 years. She shall be long remembered as a dedicated Dalit Women leader. Material Source: Dalit Movement in India and its Leaders(1 857-1956) by R.K. Kshirsagar M.D Publications New Delhi 1994 • Dr.Ambedkar and His Associates By Er.H.R. Phonsa • Wikipedia,google महोदया एनाई शिवराज मीनमबल (1902-1992) (बाबा साहेब डॉ। अम्बेडकर के विजनरी महिला सहयोगी को याद करते हुए उनके 29 वें महापर्व में कल 30 नवंबर 2020 को पड़ने वाले कार्यक्रम): द्वारा: एन. हैम राज फोंसा दिनांक 29-11-2020 मिस मीनमबल मद्रास के वल्लोर की मूल निवासी श्री पिल्लई वासुदेव गोविंदराजू की बेटी थीं, जो एक आदिवासी दलित थीं। श्री वासुदेव बर्मा में व्यवसाय से जुड़े थे और कुछ समय के लिए मद्रास निगम के सदस्य भी थे। फिर उन्हें 1923 से 1926 तक मद्रास की विधान परिषद के सदस्य के रूप में नामित किया गया था। मिस मीनाम्बल का जन्म श्री पिल्लई वासुदेव गोविंदराजू के साथ 26 दिसंबर 1902 को बर्मा (अब म्यांमार गणराज्य के गणराज्य) में रंगून में हुआ था। उन्होंने मदुरै पिल्लई हाई स्कूल से अपना मैट्रिक पास किया, रंगून की स्थापना उनके पिता ने 1900 में की थी। जब वह 1919 में मद्रास वापस आए, उन्होंने दक्षिण भारत के प्रसिद्ध दलित नेता और बाबा साहिब डॉ। अंबेडकर के कट्टर समर्थक राव बहादुर एन शिवराज से शादी कर ली। श्रीमती मीनम्बल शिवराज मद्रास निगम की सदस्य होने का सम्मान प्राप्त करने वाली पहली अनुसूचित जाति की महिलाओं में थीं। वह विश्वविद्यालय सीनेट द्वारा निगम में मद्रास विश्वविद्यालय का प्रतिनिधित्व करने के लिए भी चुना गया था। वह 1942 में बाबा साहब द्वारा ILP को भंग करने के बाद गठित अनुसूचित जाति महासंघ का एक बहुत सक्रिय और वफादार सदस्य था। शिवराज दंपति शायद डॉ। बाबा साहिब बी आर के सबसे भरोसेमंद अनुयायी थे। अम्बेडकर। श्रीमती मीनमबल शिवराज ने उदास वर्ग की महिला लोक को सलाह दी कि वे अपने बच्चों को शिक्षित करें, उनमें आत्मविश्वास और अच्छे चरित्र का संचार करें। उसने उन्हें खुद को जातिवाद, अशुद्ध नौकरियों और वर्चस्व से मुक्त करने की सलाह दी। 23 सितंबर 1944 को मद्रास में आयोजित अनुसूचित जाति महासंघ के महिला सम्मेलन की अध्यक्षता महिला कार्यकर्ता श्रीमती शिवराज कर रही थीं और 6 मई 1945 को बंबई में अखिल भारतीय एससीएफ महिला सम्मेलन आयोजित किया गया था। इन दो सम्मेलनों को बाबा साहेब डॉ. अंबेडकर और राव बहादुर एन. शिवराज संबोधित किया था । उन्होंने 1952 में मद्रास विधान सभा के लिए पहली बार आम चुनाव लड़ा, फिर 1952 में मद्रास विधान परिषद के लिए एससीएफ के उम्मीदवार के रूप में और आखिरकार उन्होंने 1967 में कांग्रेस प्रत्याशी के रूप में मद्रास विधान सभा के लिए चुनाव लड़ा। उनके पति राव बहादुर एन। शिवराज ने उनके लिए चुनाव लड़ा। लोकसभा सीट in1952, 1957,1962 चेंगलपट्टी, मद्रास (अब तमिलनाडु राज्य) से। लेकिन वह 1957 में चेंगलपट्टी टी। एन (जी और एससी) निर्वाचन क्षेत्र के लिए लोकसभा सीट के लिए आरपीआई के टिकट पर हुए दूसरे आम चुनावों में जीते और निर्वाचित हुए। भाग्यशाली अनीनी मीनमबल राव बहादुर शिवराज कोपलेवेरे ने दो बेटों और दो बेटियों के साथ आशीर्वाद दिया। उन्होंने उन्हें अच्छी शिक्षा दी। उनके बेटे श्री दयाशंकर, IPS (सेवानिवृत्त) ने अपने बुढ़ापे में मैडम अन्नी मीनाम्बल की देखभाल की, क्योंकि उनके पति एन। शिवराज का 29 सितंबर 1964 को निधन हो गया था। 30 नवंबर 1992 को 92 वर्ष की आयु में उनकी मृत्यु हो गई। उन्हें समर्पित दलित महिला नेता के रूप में लंबे समय तक याद किया जाएगा। Material Source: Dalit Movement in India and its Leaders(1 857-1956) by R.K. Kshirsagar M.D Publications New Delhi 1994 • Dr.Ambedkar and His Associates By Er.H.R. Phonsa • Wikipedia,google •

Mohd Maqbool Sherwani,A savior Of Kashmir

Mohd Maqbool Sherwani,A savior Of Kashmir ( Let all Indians Salute Sherwani on his 74th Martyrdom which fell on 7th November,2020 ) A rare martyr, who was nailed with a pole/wall by Pakistani Kabaliyees( Raiders),who entered Kashmir,as by that time Maharaja Hari Singh had not signed Instrument of Accession, which he signed with a delay of 73 days after India attained freedom on 15th August.1947. Mr. Sherwani was a Muslim young man of 19 years when he attained Martyrdom. He was resident of Baramulla town and was engaged as a shopkeeper. He was Indian, secular by heart and deed. He was a worker and follower of Sheikh Mohd. Abdulla’s National Conference party , which was opposed to fall in line the designs of Muslim League, despite being Muslim. After entering Jammu and Kashmir loaded like cattle in lorries and trucks, tall, strong and shabby looking tribesmen entirely plundered the beautiful city of Baramulla on October 26. The attack was so lethal that only 3,000 citizens of Baramulla out of a total population of 14,000 were said to have survived--a fact that Akbar Khan, a Pakistani commander and main perpetrator of the attack, has himself agreed to in his book ‘Raiders in Kashmir’. Sherwani is said rode his motorcycle On Oct26, 1947 and went around the Baramulla town telling Kabaliyees not to advance towards Srinagar as Indian troops had reached the outskirts of Baramulla. Sherwani held public meetings in villages on his motorcycle to unify them and collectively take on the raiders. Seeing a local citizen on the deserted road, the raiders asked him for the route to Srinagar airport. The idea of Pakistan was to capture Srinagar Airport as it was the only means for urgent procurements and deployment of the Indian army in case of immediate warfare. Controlling the Srinagar airport meant cutting off the valley from the rest of India. But Sherwani played a skilled trick by displayed his supper presence of mind and in a convincing tone,he misguided the raiders and suggested to them a wrong path that was going to lead them to nowhere. He also led them for some distance astray. However, after wandering on the wrong path for some time and realizing about being misguided, the Kabaliyees returned back to find Sherwani and punish him for the delay. Sherwani was in Sumbal, 35 km away from Baramulla when raiders found him, abducted and brought him back to Baramulla to set an example for the Indian patriots. The raiders stressed Sherwani to get saved his life by uttering “ Pakistan Zindabad”, which this true son of the soil refused. He was nailed alive to a post through the palms and the chest at Baramulla crossing and as many as 14 bullets were pumped into his body. Finally, Maharaja Hari Singh signed the agreement of accession on 26 October and New Delhi sent the Indian Army to Kashmir the very next day. In the morning of 27 October 1947, soldiers of the Sikh Regiment landed at Srinagar airport after being airlifted from Gurgaon base. Dewan Ranjit Rai, who was martyred in the war with raiders, was commanding the unit. When the Indian army reached Srinagar, it was received warmly by the Kashmiris. Three days after his martyrdom, his body was brought down the post by the army on reaching Baramulla. To a larger extent, due to Sherwani’s role, the famous Shalateng battle near Srinagar was fought to eliminate the enemy. He got crucified and attained martyrdom for the honour of his motherland and the people. Alas! Such heroes stand totally forgotten and neglected. A famous Kashmiri journalist Sofi Ghulam Mohammad shared the anecdote and recalled “when they entered the city, there were cheers. They were garlanded.” He also recalled the slogans raised by Kashmiris like “You invaders beware, we Kashmiris are ready to fight you’ and “Long live Hindu-Sikh-Muslim unity”. Kashiri people also designed a slogan “ Sheikh Sahib Ka Kya Arshad,Hindu-Muslim-Sikh Ahtad”. Meaning what sheikh sahib Said, “Unity to Hindu, Muslim and Sikhs”. Locals share the incident of how he, along with Sherwani’s supporters, disrupted a public rally of Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Baramulla on 25 July 1944. Sherwani celebrated the pluralistic culture of Kashmir. Locals also share stories highlighting his efforts to promote harmony and religious tolerance. As the clouds of war gathered, the National Conference organised militias composed of local volunteers to defend the Valley, including the Women’s Self-defense Corps. In Srinagar and Baramulla, these militias are remembered as the Salamati Fauj, meaning army for safety a In memory of this selfless son of mother India,the park along the right bank( Towards Mohinder Nagar) of Canal Jammu,was named after Sherwani as “ Sherwani Park”. The Left bank of canal was named after another Kashmir Saviour Hero Brigadier Rajinder Singh who too lost his life defending his motherland. A befitting memorial of all such Martyrs need be erected in Jammu to keep their sacrifices stories even alive in the minds of our young generations. Let us all SALUTE Sherwani Sahib on his 74th Martyrdom which falls on 7th November,2020. Er. H.R.Phonsa, Jammu Contact: hrphonsa@gmail.com Mob: 9419134060 Dated 7-11-2020 Souce of Material 1.Daily Excelsior Dated (27-10-2013) 2. Google/Wikipedia

Dr. Namdeo Nimgade ,a Comited Ambedkarite

Dr.Namdeo Nimgade ( May 1, 1920 to November 23, 2011) By: Er. H. R. Phonsa Dr. Namdeo Nimgade ,a Comited Ambedkarite was a Agricultural Scientist, writer, author, social activist. By obtained his Doctorate in agriculture Scientist from University of Wisconsin USA, perhaps second Indian Dalit after Baba Sahib to earn this honour from that country. He was humorous silent social worker of repute. He kept struck to welfare of his Dalit Samaj, by all possible silent means, and so remained unsung hero of Dalit movement in India . In his youth he came in contact with Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar and learnt social work techniques from him, a life time crusader against suppression, neglect and ill treatment of a major chunk of Indian population called Untouchable. So Nimgade imbibed a human heart from the world class worker’s well wisher. Around Baba Sahib there was an atmosphere of always thinking to extent helping hand to those to whom even God have abandoned as not His responsibility. Nimgade enjoyed Baba Sahib’s guidance and patronage. Namdeo Nimgade was born in village Sathgaon, in Hingna Tehsil of Nagpur district Maharashtra . He was born in a landless bonded labour family of Mahar an untouchables. He was born (self declared date) on May 1, 1920. During those times Mahars, say all untouchable, were not admitted in schools, where in majority teachers were orthodox Brahmins . He used to graze cattle in his childhood. The Brahmin created untouchability based caste system, which aroused hate among officially declared low caste Hindus . Entry to schools, water sources, worshiping places, Dharamshalas etc. Stood completely banned to untouchables. Although the Maharashtra government had issued directive instructions in 1923, to throw open all public places like water bodies, schools, parks, courts, offices , health dispensaries, Dharamsalas , worshiping places, to untouchables. This was on the basis of accepting terms of resolution moved by S.K. Bole in Bombay Legislative Council and passed early same year. But no heed was paid by implementing authorities to get orders implement on ground in letter and spirit. S.K. Bole, a Brahmin social activist, again moved a resolution on 5th August 1926, it was carried in the BLC, to stop government aid to all public institutions ,which were not allowed to be used by untouchable . Dilly dying on this issue by authorities forced Baba Sahib to launch historic Mahad Tale (water Tank) Satyagraha in 1937 to take water from it and to exert for getting his people human rights. Namdeo Nimgade was admitted to school at the age of 14 years in a distant village school. Being untouchable he had to face all odds of caste monster. He had to stand in an open hot veranda in school away from high caste students. He had to see black board and listen lesson from his teacher through a window. No water to drink in school, no safe roof to save him from rains. He faced all possible types of caste hate problems, humiliation including body beating, but he did not lose heart, so continued with his studies. He had read about Dr. Ambedkar’s tale of difficulties he had faced during his school days. However Nimgade moved steadfastly towards his set goal of higher education. Nimgade passed his Graduation from Nagpur College. Thereafter in 1950 he moved to Delhi for studying and later serving as an associate, at the Indian Agriculture Research Institute Delhi. Nimgade was taken to Baba sahib at Delhi by his brother in law Khobragade. In Delhi Namdeo Nimgade and Bhagwan Dass (23.04.1927 -18.11.2010) picked up friendship . Bhagwan Dass was also an important hero of Dalit movement in India and writer of “In Persuit of Ambedkar” and some other books. Both Nimgade and Bhagwan Dass used to go to Dr Ambedkar at his 26, Alipore Road residence in Delhi in the 1950s . Both used to spend a lot of time with Dr Ambedkar rendering all possible help to him. Nimgade got married in 1953 to Madam Hira ( Kamal) Sontakke. The couple was blessed with three children named Rekha, Ashok and Bhim. Nimgade remained steadfastly committed to the path shown to him by Baba Sahib Ambedkar through out his life. He also embraced Buddhism at Nagpur when Dr. Ambedkar got Buddha Dhama Dixsha on 14 October 1956. Thus Nimgade left the evils of the caste system for good. Nimgade’s burning resolve for higher study and social cause coupled with simplicity and strength of character engrossed help from many people. Nimgade’s wish to achieve higher education was full filled when he was awarded Rockefeller Foundation Award to study further in Wisconsin USA University . Baba Sahib also gave him, a recommendatory letter for Wisconsin USA University. The recommendatory letter was written on 9th September 1956 just 2 months before Baba Sahib’s death on 6th December, 1956. Thus he did his PhD in Agriculture Sciences in 1961. He excelled in his studies in the university. His love for his country and his people forced him to come back to India. He returned to New Delhi 1962. He got service in the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, among the cadre of Scientists. Here he rendered great help in the bringing Agriculture Green Revolution, to tide over the hunger problem. People from the Nagpur region would come to New Delhi, seeking jobs and education. Nimgade rendered all possible help to hundreds of his people by giving them meals and a place to stay. Besides he helped them to get jobs also to make them self supporting. Being an agriculturist scientist he probed into the family - names attached with his people and said, these names have plants and trees as their origin. He said his name Nimgade was based on all healing properties tree Neem , Khobragade refers to Coconut —Ambagade refeering to sweet mango, Jamgade to sweet Guava and Borkar to Barries. These people were all peace loving so were previously Buddhists, before they forced to be part of lowest of low among Hindu castes. Their change to Buddhism was no conversion but returning to their age old roots. Nimgade loved learning from books, from all religious traditions, sources, beside company of other people. He was gifted public speaker. He presented research papers internationally; at one conference, the Australian newspaper headline read: "An Untouchable has won World Status." A lover of values he kept in contact with Madison friends for 50 years. He wrote an important world acclaimed Book “In The Tiger’s Shadow”, having about 300 pages. In this book Dr Nimgade wrote a moving, humorous and powerful account of his life. This is an Autobiography of an Ambedkarite. It is an inspiring story of a Dalit told by himself. The writer recorded story, how he rose from a village cattle grazer to an agriculture Scientist with PhD degree from American University. The writer have vividly describes the life and times of an intellectual giant Dr. B. R. Ambedkar to whom met a number of times, enjoyed his company and patronage. Book contains a unique treasure in the form of author’s memoirs of Dr Ambedkar. Besides numerous references, one entire section (out of six) of the book is devoted to Dr Ambedkar. It provides valuable insights into the personality of the world acclaimed great man. This book is a commentary on Dr Nimagade’s inspiring study tour in USA and his service with the government of India . As writer his tone is light and humour is sharp. Nimgade’s impressive rise against all oppressions when he began his education only in his teens shows his remarkable acumen. He has described all his life ladder steps and achievements. His narration are most interesting but some tragic times in the history of Nagpur, when riots between caste Hindus and Mahars broke out. The way Mahars created a terror among the castiest goons by striking with strength at every act of oppression is vivid in its description and frankly speaks volumes of the bravery depicted by a society rejuvenated by Baba Sahib’s ideas and courage. Other interesting reading in the book is author’s pursuit for his studies in USA in a free atmosphere . He has also mentioned about an encounter in forest area, of his great grandfather GABA with a tiger. Some of his other interesting life stories are also described in the book. He retired from service in 1985, and moved to Nagpur in 2005 with his wife Hira . His sad end with his death at an age of 90 years came on 22 November 2011 at Nagpur. He is survived his wife Hira , son, Bhim of Madison; daughter, Rekha Doraiswamy (Krishna) of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania (Pa); son, Ashok (Paola Grassi ) of Boston and Italy; and grandchildren, Karuna, Rahul and Nicolo. Words 1453 Dated 3-9-2020

Sayajirao Gaekwad III GCSI, GCIE ( 1863-1939)

Sayajirao Gaekwad III GCSI, GCIE ( 1863-1939) By: Er.H.R.Phonsa There lived Meharwan Shrimant Kashirao Bhikajirao ( Dada Sahib) Gaekwad (1832–1877) and his poise wife Shrimant Akhand Soubhagyavati Ummabai Sahib , of the village of Kavlana in Malegaon taluka of Nashik district . They were engaged in farming.The couple had three sons Anandrao (1857–1917), Gopalrao (1863–1939) and Sampatrao (1865–1934). Meharwan Shrimant Kashirao Bhikajirao was from a branch of the Gaekwad dynasty a cadet branch descended ( Younger son of monarch not declared heir) from a morganatic marriage (a marriage between High caste man to low caste woman) of the first Raja of Baroda, and so was not expected to succeed to the throne. Their second son Gopalrao Gaekward born on 11March 1863 became Maharaja of Baroda and renamed Sir Siyajirao Gaekward III . Lieutenant Colono Fatesinghrao Gaekward , first son of Siyajirao added that their family descendents belonged to a small village Kavlana in Nasik district and settled down there as farmers. They even bought a share of hereditary rights of the headman ship of the village and went on to be known as Kavlana Gaekwads. Their dynasty name Gaekward is said to be derived from 'Gae-Kaiwari ' ( a small gate from which cows were taken out or simply one who protects cows). However the Gaekward Dynasty rule on Baroda began in 1721,when the Maratha general Pilaji Rao Gaekwad conquered the city from the Mughal Empire . But only after 1770, during the rule of Sayajirao Gaekwad I , Baroda became the seat of power and the residence of the Gaekwad rulers. The Gaekwads were granted the city as a fief by Peshwa Bajirao I. It lasted till 1947 when India got freedom. Ref Baroda- Know your roots/Times of India/Published by-times of lndia/lst edition/2012/page no.23 38) Being son of a farmer Gopalrao Gaekward used to graze cows in his childhood. He turned out be luckiest that on attaining 18 years age he was selected to be Maharaja of Baroda State. It was on 27 May 1875 . The lucky boy was renamed as Sayajirao Gaekwad III . He peacefully ascended the gadi (throne) at Baroda on, 16 June 1875. Despite being sixth richest man in the world, he committed his whole life for the welfare of people and became one of the most loved kings ever world over. Though he was one among the three wealthiest rulers of India nobody else could match his people friendly welfare measures. Other two rich were Nizam of Hydrabad and Maharaja of Mysore. Sayajirao who ruled over Baroda State for 63 years was ever ready to help any needy person of his state. He proved to very visionary, Vikas Purash (Developer) and non compromiser on his royal prestige. He did not compromise with dictates of the British on his honors. To commemorate the coronation of George V and his wife Mary as King and queen of Britain on their proclamation as Emperor and Empress of India in December 1911 Delhi Darbar ( Last of three Darbars,1877,1903,1911 ) was held in 1911 . As per protocol all Indian Kings and princes, who were asked to attend the Darbar were to wear royal dress fitted with valuable jewelry. Each King while presenting himself before the Emperor and Empress was to bow thrice and come back without showing back to the Royal couple. Although Sayajirao had a splendid collection of jewels and jewellery but when his turn came, he was not wearing the prescribed royal dress, bowed only once , turned his back towards Royal couple and came back to his sear . British officers, London press including Motilal Nehru criticized this action of Maharaja. But Mahaja of Baroda did not relent, as he did deliberately as a protest against discrimination, shown toward Indian rulers by the British. Despite this Sayaji Maharaj was awarded Delhi Durbar Gold Medal-1911 and GCIE-1919 by the British for his other super qualities of head and heart. He also attended Delhi Durbarheld on 1st January, 1877. He was granted the title of Farzand-i-Khas-i-Daulat-i-Inglishia on 29 December 1876. However Maharaj’s granddaughter Gayatri Devi said in her autobiography that Maharaja had missed attending rehearsal ,so the mistake occurred. Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekward III was one among three Indian rulers in 1911, entitled to get highest ranking 21 gun Salutes honour when he visited India capital. Srimant Sir Khanderao Geakward II(1828-1970), third son of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekward II, acceded the Gadi of Baroda State from his elder brother, Maharaja Ganpatrao Gaekward , on 19th November 1858. But he died sudden death in 1870 in harness. He died as male heirless . However his 17 years old widow Maharani Jamnadevi gave birth to a female child posthumously so king’s younger brother Malharrao (1831–1882) became the 11th King of Baroda. He was the sixth and youngest son of Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad II. Malhar Rao spent money liberally, nearly emptying the Baroda coffers. He even reported to have attempted to poison the British Resident of Baroda. On his the Secretary of State of India, Lord Salisbury ordered Malhar Rao’s disposition on 10 April,1975,exiled him to Madras, where he died in 1882. Then there was no male heir from Dynastic regular family to be on the Gadi of Baroda. So Late Maharaj Khanderao II 's widow, Maharani Jamnabai (1853–1898) called on the heads of the extended branches of the dynasty to come to Baroda and present themselves and their sons to decide upon a successor. Kashirao Bhikajirao and his three sons, Anandrao (1857–1917), Gopalrao (1863–1939) and Sampatrao (1865–1934) walked to Baroda from Kavlana -a distance of some 600 kilometers- to present themselves to Maharani Jamnabai. . It is reported that when on his turn Gopalrao was asked the purported reason for presenting themselves at Baroda, Gopalrao unhesitatingly replied “ I have come here to Rule”. Gopalrao was selected by the British Government as successor and was accordingly adopted by Maharani Jamnabai, on 27 May 1875. As luck would have it Kashirao Gakward’s family shifted from simple village wada (is a traditional mansion house ) to Laxmi Niwas Baroda. He was also given a new name, Sayajirao Gaekward later Sir Siyajirao Gaekward III. After about a month he formally ascended the gadi (throne) at Baroda on , 16 June 1875. But being a minor so Baroda was reigned under a Council of Regency until he came of age ( 18 years) and on 28 December 1881,was vested with full ruling powers. Maharani Jamnabai opened a special school for royal children. Here Siyajirao Gaekward learnt Gujarati, Marathi, Urdu and English from special teachers arranged for the purpose. Besides this during theses six years of his minority on thrown, he was extensively tutored in administrative skills by Raja Sir T. Madhava Rao KCSI ( 1828-91),who groomed his young responsibility into being a person with foresight filled with a compassionate mind to provide welfare to his people. On the request of British Government sir Madhava Rao had take over as Diwan-Regent of Baroda State , after dispossession of Mahalrao Gaekward as Maharaja of Baroda. In this period Madhava Rao restored the state to its normal conditions following the chaos in which it had been left by Malharrao. Credit for what the Maharaja achieved during his life in every sphere of human activity must also be given to F. A. H. Elliot ICS who also groomed Siyajirao Gaekward. After crowing as king of Baroda state, Maharani Jamnabai thought to marry him . Sayajirao Gaekwad was married on 6 January,1879, with Laxmibai (1864–1884) , daughter of Haibatrao Narayanrao Mohite from Tanjore in South India. As per the tradition Maharani Jamnabai gave new name to the bride as Chimnabai. In next five years the royal couple was blessed with two daughters ( Bajubai & Putlibai) and a son named Fatehsinhrao Gaekwad (1883 –1908) . Queen Victoria sent greeting on birth of their son. Maharani Chimnabai died in 1885 of tuberculosis and in her memory grateful Sayajirao Gaekwad built a building which is now known as Nyaymandir. After that Sayajirao Gaekwad III married for the second time. Sir Siyajirao Gaekward did not believe in polygamy as was the practice then with majority Indian Kings. Sir Siyajirao married second time on 28 December 1885 with Shrimant Lakshmibai Mohite (1871–1958). This Maratha lady who was renamed as Chimnabai II upon her wedding. She proved to be very intelligent and a great help to her husband during their 54 years as husband-wife. The royal couple was blessed with 4 children. Three of them were sons (Jaisinghrao,Shivajirao, Dhairyasihghrao) and one daughter Indira Devi. Indri Devi was married to Maharaja Jitendra Narayan of Cooch Bihar in 1911, who reigned over Cooch Bihar from 1913-22. Later Maharani Indira Devi was Maharani Regent of Cooch Behar (Indiraraje). Sir Siyajirao Gaekward III throughout his rule, he paid special attention to the welfare of his subjects. He had seen village life and poor living conditions of poverty ridden rural masses. He observed that in his state Brahmin population (1891) stood only 9% where as unclean classified Depressed classes had 21% of the total population. But majority of government jobs manager, from highest to lowest ranks were Brahmins males. Education avenues for 21% population stood banned by Brahmin religious laws. So he must have thought that only education could help reduce wide spread anomalies in administration and help reduce common man’s caste enforced miseries. Therefore he paid special attention to spread educate for both sexes and all of his subjects. Maharaja Baroda knew personally the pains of missing childhood formal school education. So Maharaja used all means to spread education to his State subjects. Sir Siyajirao Geakward III was a fan of social activist Mahatama Jyotirao Phuley (1827-90), who was great champion of education, more so girl education. Mahatma Phuley with cooperation of his wife Mata Savitribai Phuley had opened a series of Schools both for boys and girls in Poona ( Now Pune) starting from 1st January 1848. Maharaja Baroda used to help financially Mahatma Phuley so that he could continue his endeavor of social transformation. Following Mahatama Phuley mantra Maharaja opened free Vernacular Education Department in 1875 and in 1881 he opened eight schools for girls besides a teacher’s training and self employment institution for lady teacher’s in 1914.. He was first Indian ruler to introduced free and compulsory primary education from 1893 and by 1906 this scheme covered whole state. The state was divided into six divisions; each division was put under an education inspector, assisted by Dy. Inspector. The Dy. inspector had to supervise on an average fifty schools and 6000 students in the year 1939. This was rare of rarest feat for any Indian Princely ruled state. In 1879 he founded a degree college which progress to be Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU ). Maharaja engaged Bengali gem Syed Mujtaba Ali ( 1904-74) to teach in MSU University. This is counted one among the best Universities of India in present days. During his annual visit to London Maharaja Sahib met 20-year-old Sri Aurobindo ( 1872-1950) whom he immediately offered a job at Baroda College. Sri Aurobindo returned to India in 1893 to join the Baroda service. Sir Siyajirao Gaekward III started in 1916, the Ecclesiastical Department in Baroda and conduct ‘Sanskrit Pathsalas’ to spread moral and religious education. To develop scientific mind his people and take them out of religious superstitions, Maharaja Sahib established a Science Institute in 1926( MSU) for the purpose. This helped opened up avenues for a prosperous science based professional career for his subjects. The Maharaja not only opened hundreds of schools for Dalits but encouraged them to take admission in schools by being liberal to sanction financial assistance to deserving students. To give boast to education Maharaja Ji opened a library in 1906 and later independent department of Public libraries was established 1911. He ordered opening library after studying its establishing procedures on modern lines while visiting Washington Library USA in 1906. His library became the nucleus of today's Central Library of Baroda with a network of libraries in all the towns and villages. His choice to spread of education to all, transformed a Mahar boy from Bhiva to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, later Father of Indian Constitution. Maharaja Sahib was Chancellor of BHU delivered annual convocation address in January, 1924 . He received Hon. LLD from Benares Hindu University in 1924. He visited Calcutta on the invitation of viceroy in1883. Dadabhai Naoroji ( 1825-1917), was appointed as the Dewan (Minister) to the Maharaja Baroda in 1874 . Thereafter Naoroji went on to become the first Asian Member of the British House of Commons . Maharaja Sahib also appointed V. T. Krishnamachari ( 1881-1964)as the Diwan of Vadodara 1927, who served on this post till 1944. He was India’s master planner who laid the foundation of panchayti raj system. Maharaj Sahib was one of the first to introduce 2,104 gram panchayat bodies and 41 nagar palika bodies. He also passed a stringent law punishing parents or guardians who married off their children earlier than stipulated ages. When Bhimrao Ambedkar passed his Matriculation in 1907 making history of sorts by a Mahar boy to achieve all time records for Mahars of India . His father Ramji Sakhpal had strong will to educate his son further but shortage of resources was obstructing his way. Krishnaji Arjun Keluskar a School teacher and S.K. Bole a socialist leader attended Mahar Community function arranged to felicitate Bhimrao on his passing Matriculation. Keluskar also gave Bhim his Marathi Book , “ Life Of Gautma Budhha”. When Sakhpal family was facing financial difficulties in carrying on education of Bhim, Keluskar also got this information . He being a reputed Marathi writer had good rapport with Maharaja Baroda. He took Ambedkar to Maharaja and explained their purpose of coming. Maharaja sanctioned a monthly scholarship of rupees twenty five in the favour of Ambedkar. This solved Bhimrao’s financial difficulties till he passed his B.A examination. After passing B.A. Bhimrao applied and got employment as lieutenant in Baroda Armed forces. However he had to come back after only 15 days only, as he received a telegram about illness of his father. His father Subedar Major Ramji Sakhpal sadly passed away on 2 Feb, 1913. Bhim was now alone to carry on his family choir . Besides this Bhim was still nursing in him burning desire for Higher Education. Bhimrao came to know through Kaluskar that Maharaja Baroda had advertised to send 4 students to USA for higher Education. Keluskar also advised Ambedkar to apply against one such scholarship, promising he will also use his influence to help Bhimrao. Bhimrao Ambedkar was already on look out of such opportunity. Ambedkar met the Maharaja and expressed his wish for higher studies abroad. Maharaja advised Ambedkar to put up his application to the Baroda State the purpose. Ambedkar put up an application and his request was accepted. He was called in palace for personal interview with Maharaja. Bhim complied as required .He was selected for grant of Scholarship for studying in Columbia University, New York city , USA. Bhimrao Ambedkar was asked to sign an agreement on June 4, 1913 to serve the Baroda State for 10 years after completion of his foreign studies. Bhim signed the agreement. Ambedkar prepared for going abroad. It was due to fore sighted magnanimity of Maharaja for spread of education without caste distinctions. Bhimrao got chance to study on foreign land in a free and fair atmosphere. This university awarded Dr. Ambedkar M.A, PhD, LLD ( Hon) Degrees . This University has declared Dr. B. R. Ambedkar as universal, life time first student, a great honour. To understand the progressive working systems in foreign developed countries Sir Siyajirao toured many foreign countries and saw working systems of progressive societies. His visit to Egypt in 1897, Czechia in 1904, Washington, USA in 1906, Germany 1936, U.K yearly. He adopted large scale approach to modernize his state which was entrenched with social challenges, evils, and discriminations. He his such visits, he used to meet Indians . To help trade and industry Sir Siyajirao opened Bank of Baroda in Vadodra on 20 July 1908. This also eased the farming loans process, so saving farmers from cruel clutches of private blood sucking money lenders. To improve the Post and communication system Maharaja opened General Post office building Vadodra in 1934. Maharaja Sahib also took serious note of caste prejudices prevailing in his State. He knew these practice were generating caste hatred among his subjects. To count on the other side of such trends projected by high castes, Maharaja Sahib in 1925 organized a banquet at his residence Laxmi Vilas Palace, in Baroda, where men of all castes ate together. He legalized widow remarriage, abolished the child marriage and fought for temple entry to Dalits. In 1925 he opened the gates of a temple at Amreli to the Dalits. Great strides were made in areas of inter-caste marriages and widow remarriages as well through legislation to make befitting Acts, and rules. He also separated the powers of the judiciary and the executive. Maharaja invited Shivram Janba Kamle (1875-1940), a Mahar, famous social reformer of his time to Baroda on 11 September,1908 as State Guest. Shivram Janba Kamle was honored by Maharaja Baroda for his un-matching social strides. Over a century ago to affect such revolutionary social laws was no less than a miracle. Only humanity dyed, unbiased Royal mind could take such steps The royal couple recognized equality of women folk. To demonstrate it publically, Maharani Chimnabai II abandoned Purdhah system while sitting in public Darbar with Maharaja from 1914. She got published a book in 1911 titled “ Position Of women in Indian Life” . Sir Siyajirao Gaekward III rule saw stride in public developmental works. A 64 gated drinking water storage “Siyaji Sarovar Ajwa” was got constructed between 1885-92 and piped water supply was made possible for Baroda. Maharaja Sahib established sanitary department in 1891. Construction of Kirti Mandir near cemetery of past Baroda rulers, in their memory was completed in 1936. In 1908 Maharaja founded the Baroda Legislative Assembly (also known as the Baroda Dhara Sabha). On 19 January 1861 first train reached Goya Gate (Now Railways Heritage Park Vadodra ) with fan fare so Baroda state became first Indian Monarch ruled state to have railway line. In 1862 Baroda state owned 20 miles Bullock driven rail track which was replaced on 8 April, 1873 by steam locomotive. While reaching 1940 the State owned 723 miles (Excluding sidings) railway tracks. For this credit goes to vision and constant attention of both Maharaja Khanderao and Sir Siyajirao Gaekward. This added in big way, to revenue and comforts in the lives of Baroda state subjects. The Laxmi Vilas Palace, an example of Indo-Saracenic architecture spreading over 500-600 acres was built as royal residence in 1890 with a cost of rupees twenty seven Lacs . It has four times the size of Buckingham Palace, residence of British Royal family. For taking care of health to his people, the Maharaja Sahib established Sir Siyajirao Gaekward General Hospital in 1886. For the maintenance of civic sense in urban areas Local self government and, Vadodra Improvement trust was also established. Maharaja Sahib also played key role for development of Textile Industries by giving many incentives. In 1902 Maharaja Sahib started Industrial Expedition in Ahmadanagar to promote industrial products. Maharaja promoted animal good breeds and health so started holding animal fight festivals. For regular quality floor supply to Vadodra a Floor Mill was started in 1906. Maharaja Siyajirao Gaekward was great promoter of sports. On 23 December 1902, a show was arranged where Great Gama Pehalwan lifted 1200kg stone kept in Nazarburg palace Vadodra. Gama was born in Amritsar in 1878 and remained unbeaten wrestler world over. To appreciate this great feat Great Gama Pehalwan was treated as a State Guest. Maharaja Sahib visited Germany to see Berlin Hockey Olympics 1936. He was reported to have met Hitler. During meeting Maharaja asked for arranging secret help for Indian freedom struggle. In 1895 the Maharaja is claimed to have witnessed the successful flight of an unmanned aircraft constructed by S. B. Talpade , which happened eight years before the Wright brothers( December-1903) took to the skies. S. B. Talpade was an Indian technical instructor in the art and craft department of Sir JJ School of Art. Maharaja Sir Siyajirao Gaekward was one among the 16 delegates ( First- RTC) , 23 ( II RTC) from princely Indian States rulers .These conferences were held between Nov 1930 to Dec1931. Dewan Of Baroda State attended the III RTC held( November - December 1932) . Three RTC’s were held between representatives of British Crown , Indian rulers, political party at London to deliberate and decide the future representative character of different communities in future constitution , when India shall be freed. Due to uncompromising adamant behavior of Congress leaders including M.K. Gandhi, no positive results could be achieved. The speech delivered in the first RTC by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was adjudged as best of all speeches delivered in all 3RTC’s by all delegates. Dr. Ambedkar put forth his forceful views to representatives assembled in RTC, saying the congress party leaders talked of removal of untouchability as their own internal problem, saying untouchables were their religious brethren ,with no need to have separate electorate rights. Dr. Ambedkar pleaded for not leaving Depressed Classes people on the mercy of Hindu chauvinism. So to make them free from Hindu domination he was demanding equal constitutional rights for his people. He told the delegates that the Hindus shall deny untouchables any share in power in legislature , politics, and administration in their country of origin. He also warned the British to leave India soon, as during their rule of over one and a half century, they have failed to make any change in the existing conditions of untouchable. Foreign media remained flooded with praises for the speaker of the day for many days. Sir Siyajirao Gaekward III, an admirer of knowledge and wisdom, was very much impressed, so pleased, to hear Dr. B.R. Ambedkar speaking, and delivering unbound and un-matching knowledge skills . On reaching back to his place of residence Sir Siyajirao told his queen that the speaker of the day Dr. Ambedkar who won praises of the day , was the one, to whom he helped financially to get higher education in foreign lands. He said that with day’s excellent speech, Dr. Ambedkar have repaid the full money advanced to him , for education, with interests. To express his joy, the Maharaja invited Dr. Ambedkar to a Royal Dinner at the Hyde Park Hotel in London with King’s selected guests. It was a rare of rarest occasion for a Dalit leader to break bread with a Prince and Knight. The New York Times carried a news under the heading “PRINCE AND OUTCASTE AT DINNER IN LONDON END AGE OLD BARRIER”. This dispatch was sent by correspondent Charles A. Seldon as recorded in “ Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the Messiah Of Downtrodden By , Janak Singh” . The Maharaja also provided patronage to arts and music. During his reign, Baroda became a hub for artists and scholars. The celebrated painter, Raja Ravi Varma (1848-1906), was among those who spent substantial periods of time at his court. Exhibitions of his art were organized. Sayajirao also provided backing to Indian classical music. Ustad Moula Bux ( 1833-96) founded the Academy of Indian Music (Gayan Shala) under sponsorship of Maharaja in 1886. This Academy later became the Music College and is now the Faculty of Performing Arts, of the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Vadodara. Apart from Ustad Moula Bux, Sayajirao's court boasted great artistes like Inayat Khan (1882-1927) and Ustad Faiyyaz Khan(1880-1950). In 1916, the first All India Music Conference was held in Baroda. Some master dancers were also encouraged for displaying their art in the palace. Fully aware of the fact that he was a Maratha ruler of Gujarat, he identified himself with the people, history and its glory. Both Chhatarpati Sahu Ji Maharaj (1874-1922) of Kohlapur State and Sir Siyajirao Gaekward III helped by all means Krishana Arjun Keluskar( 1860--unknown),a prominent Marathi writer of his times ,to writing 600 paged Marathi book “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Charitra. Sir Siyajirao honored the author with “Ragal Of Baroda State” award. After serving his State as a just ruler, for 63 years, Sayajirao Gaekwad III died on 6 February 1939, one month short of 76 age . His grandson and heir, Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad, became the next Maharaja of Baroda. Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad ruled till India attained freedom on 15August 1947. From 2012 Titular Maharaja of Baroda State is Samarjitsinh Ranjitsinh . He is son of Ranjitsinh Pratapsinh Gaekwad and Shubhanginiraje. He is descendent of Sampatrao Gaekward (1865–1934) younger brother of Sir Sayajirao . Presently surnames Gaekward : Gaekwad (also spelled as Gaikwar and Gaikwad) is a surname native to Indian state of Maharashtra. The surname is found among the Marathas, Kolis and Scheduled castes and Brahmin people also. It is also a common surname among Bharadis, Dhor, and Mahar communities of Maharashtra. Words 4200 Er. H .R. Phonsa Dated 28-09-2020. Material Source:- 1. Dr.Ambedkar, The Messiah of Down Trodden By Janak Singh. 2. Dr. Baba Sahib Ambedkar By D.Keer 3. Dalit Movement in India and its LeadersBy R.R.Kashirsagar. 4. Ref Baroda- Know your roots/Published by-times of lndia/lst edition/2012/page no.23 38) 5. Free Wikipedia.