Buddhism in Ambedkar’s Philosophy: A Critical Analysis

This paper critically examines Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s reinterpretation of Buddhism and the socio-philosophical motivations behind his conversion. Unlike conventional religious conversions driven by spiritual concerns, Ambedkar’s embrace of Buddhism was a strategic and ethical act of resistance against the caste system deeply embedded in Hinduism. He rejected Hinduism for its sanction of caste-based inequality and sought a religion aligned with justice, rationality, and human dignity. Among various alternatives, Buddhism appealed to him for its egalitarian ethos, rational principles, and compatibility with democratic values. Ambedkar, however, did not accept traditional Buddhism uncritically. He questioned metaphysical elements such as karma, rebirth, and nirvana, offering revised, socially meaningful interpretations. His redefined version, called Navayana or the “New Way,” emphasized morality, social justice, and the empowerment of the marginalized. Dukkha (suffering) was interpreted not as a personal psychological state, but as a consequence of systemic social and economic injustice. Similarly, Dhamma was seen not as religious ritual but as a moral and ethical path rooted in compassion and justice. The paper also explores the mixed reception of Ambedkar’s reinterpretation. While traditional Buddhists criticize Navayana as a deviation from canonical teachings, many modern scholars and activists view it as a timely and necessary reform that aligns Buddhism with contemporary social realities. Ambedkar’s rational and ethical interpretation transforms Buddhism into a dynamic force for social change. Ultimately, this study argues that Navayana is a legitimate and philosophically grounded development in Buddhist thought, offering a powerful framework for combating caste, inequality, and injustice in modern India.