Ramabai Ambedkar Jayanti 2025: 10 Lesser-Known Facts About Dr BR Ambedkar's Wife

Ramabai Ambedkar Jayanti 2025

Ramabai Ambedkar Jayanti 2025 is observed annually on February 7, marking the birth anniversary of Mata Ramabai, the wife of Dr. BR Ambedkar. She played a crucial yet often overlooked role in his journey as a social reformer. Despite facing extreme hardships, she remained a pillar of support to Babasaheb, enabling him to dedicate his life to the upliftment of marginalized communities. While Dr. Ambedkar is celebrated as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Ramabai’s silent sacrifices and unwavering dedication remain an inspiring chapter in history.

On her birth anniversary, here are 10 lesser-known facts about Ramabai Ambedkar:

1. Married at the Age of Nine

Ramabai was just nine years old when she was married to Bhimrao Ambedkar, who was around 15 years old at the time. Their marriage took place in 1906, a common practice in those times.

2. Humble Beginnings

Born into an extremely poor Dalit family in Vanand, Maharashtra, Ramabai faced struggles from an early age. Her father, Bhiku Dhatre, was a daily wage laborer.

3. Lived in Poverty

Despite Ambedkar’s later achievements, the couple initially struggled with financial instability. Ramabai endured days of hardship while Dr. Ambedkar pursued his higher education.

4. Encouraged Ambedkar’s Education

Ramabai wholeheartedly supported Babasaheb’s decision to study abroad. Even when it meant years of separation while he studied at Columbia University and the London School of Economics, she never complained.

5. Lived a Simple Life

Ramabai led a very simple and austere life, often managing household struggles alone while Dr. Ambedkar was devoted to his mission.

6. Suffered Great Hardships

During Dr. Ambedkar’s studies abroad, Ramabai survived on minimal resources, sometimes with just Bhakri (bread) and chili for food, showcasing her immense resilience.

7. Lost Four of Her Five Children

Ramabai and Ambedkar had five children, but four of them died at an early age, leaving only Yashwant Ambedkar as their surviving child. This personal loss deeply impacted her.

8. Dr. Ambedkar Dedicated a Book to Her

Recognizing her sacrifices, Dr. Ambedkar dedicated his book ‘Thoughts on Linguistic States’ to her, acknowledging her patience, support, and suffering.

9. Passed Away Young

Ramabai Ambedkar died at the age of 37 in 1935 due to prolonged illness and lack of medical care. Her untimely demise was a great loss to Ambedkar.

10. A Symbol of Strength and Sacrifice

Though she lived in the shadows of her husband’s towering legacy, Ramabai’s resilience, patience, and silent sacrifices made it possible for Babasaheb to become the leader who changed India’s social structure forever.