In 1956 Nagpur, Ambedkar and 500,000 supporters convert to Buddhism.
Today is a very significant day in India for millions of erstwhile untouchables. It happened precisely 65 years ago today. Dr. BR Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, made a life-changing choice on October 14, 1956. Ambedkar's death anniversary is known as Mahaparinirvana Diwas because of his reputation as a Buddhist leader. Ambedkar, a member of the Mahar caste, which was deemed untouchable in Hinduism, turned to Buddhism after years of study.
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