'Ambedkar was clear: Hindu Raj would be the biggest calamity for India': Anand Teltumbde

Published on April 9, 2025. Ahead of the birth anniversary of B.R. Ambedkar, public intellectual and writer Anand Teltumbde speaks to Frontline’s Amey Tirodkar about how Ambedkar's ideas are being invoked and often misappropriated by political parties across the spectrum. He discusses whether Ambedkar is truly being honoured through action, or merely worshipped in symbolism. In this interview, Teltumbde challenges the popular narrative that credits Dr. Ambedkar alone for drafting the Indian Constitution. He traces the role of the Constituent Assembly and highlights Mahatma Gandhi’s role in ensuring Ambedkar’s presence there with Congress’s support. From Article 370 and the Uniform Civil Code to the Hindu Code Bill, Teltumbde explores the contradictions in Ambedkar's political positions and the enduring relevance of his warnings against Hindu nationalism. Context: B.R. Ambedkar remains one of India’s most revered yet contested figures. While his statues are garlanded and his legacy invoked by all major political parties, Anand Teltumbde argues that much of Ambedkar's radical vision has been sidelined. Speaking from Rajgriha, Ambedkar’s residence in Mumbai, Teltumbde critiques not only the right-wing appropriation of Ambedkar’s image but also the lack of engagement with his actual writings, even among progressive followers. Highlights: • Why Ambedkar’s role in drafting the Constitution needs deeper scrutiny • Gandhi’s strategic role in bringing Ambedkar into the Constituent Assembly • Ambedkar’s nuanced views on UCC, Article 370, and the Hindu Code Bill • The RSS and BJP's appropriation of Ambedkar • The danger of reducing Ambedkar to a symbol instead of engaging with his ideas Perfect for: • Students of political science and constitutional studies • Ambedkarite thinkers and activists • Scholars of modern Indian history • Anyone interested in caste, democracy, and the future of Indian politics Read the interview here- https://frontline.thehindu.com/politi... Subscribe and support Frontline Conversations for such insightful and informative interviews. Credits: Interview by Amey Tirodkar Camera by Emmanual Karbhari Editing by Sumiesh S. Produced by Kavya Pradeep M Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295