In a compelling and intellectually stimulating lecture, Prof Umesh Bagade shed light on the visionary perspectives of Dr B.R. Ambedkar concerning education and caste. The talk was hosted by Dr Ambedkar Chair, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Museum and Memorial, Symbiosis International Deemed University, Pune on 28th February 2024.

This meeting was happening in a hybrid mode, where participants were attending the session through the online (91 Participants) and physical modes (100 Participants).

The programme was attended by students and academicians from SPPU, Fergusson College, ILS Law College, and SNDT, apart from the students of Symbiosis International University.

The programme started with garlanding Dr Ambedkar’s portrait and guests paying their tributes, after which Mrs. Sanjeevani Majumdar emphasised the idea of how Dr Ambedkar used education as a tool for social transformation through the establishment of the People’s Education Society and the power of education to bring social progress.

Prof. Jyoti Chandiramani shared her views on the importance of equity and education in contemporary times and discussed inclusive education. Dr Ajay Choudhary talked about education and its relationship to other institutions, such as Caste, that influence the different spheres of Indian society. He furthers how educational institutions act in accordance with social norms, extending social inequalities.

Prof Bagade’s profound insights of Dr B.R. Ambedkar regarding education and caste attracted a diverse audience eager to understand these critical issues more deeply. He commenced the lecture by contextualising Dr Ambedkar’s life and legacy, emphasising his tireless advocacy for social justice and equality.

He built a connection with Immanuel Kant’s philosophy and found its evidence in the writings of Dr Ambedkar. He showcased how radical structuralists like Mahatma Phule and Dr Ambedkar were the product of the Indian Enlightenment Movement and curled out the ideas of education as proposed by Dr Ambedkar from his review of Bertrand Russel’s Book.

He emphasised the idea of Dr Ambedkar, according to which reason alone cannot do away with the caste and how caste has a structure of forced labour. Prof Bagade then talked about Chokamela and Buddha, according to whom no knowledge is final and Knowledge is an ever-evolving process.

He connects to the concept of Buddha’s eradication of Avidya, which became the mission of eradication by Mahatma Phule and Dr Ambedkar.

Prof Bagade elucidated Dr. Ambedkar’s nuanced understanding of caste and its implications for Indian society. Dr Ambedkar’s critique of the caste system as a profoundly entrenched structure of oppression resonated strongly with the audience, prompting reflection on the enduring challenges faced by marginalised groups.

Subsequently, after his address, the lecture engendered a vibrant exchange of ideas, with attendees actively participating in Q&A sessions and sharing personal reflections on the relevance of Dr Ambedkar’s teachings in their lives. To end the programme, the Chair of the session, Prof Surendra Jondhale, addressed the audience by sharing his concerns on the persistence of Caste today and the condition of education in contemporary times.

Prof Jondhale showed why Dr Ambedkar’s ideas are still relevant today. He highlighted the importance of Indian thinkers like Mahatma Phule and Dr Ambedkar and their critical writings when philosophers like Foucault, Derrida, etc, were being discussed.

He raised critical, self-reflexive, and thought-provoking questions, such as whether untouchability is an exploitative practice, whether the spaces of modernity will abolish the caste system and other questions.

Subsequently, the Vote of thanks was presented, and they extended their sincere gratitude to Prof Umesh Bagade for his enlightening lecture, to all attendees for their active participation and contribution to the dialogue on this crucial topic and to the audience for their keen participation.

Subsequently, the guests and the audience engaged in the poster exhibition by the students and visited the Dr B. R. Ambedkar Museum. The lecture underscored the enduring relevance of Dr Ambedkar’s vision in guiding efforts to create a more just and inclusive society. Through his thought-provoking analysis and engaging discourse, Prof Bagade left a lasting impact on all who attended, reaffirming Dr Ambedkar’s status as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations.