The Life of Women Behind Dr. B. R. Ambedkar: The Story of Ramabai and Rama Bai

Introduction

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar is widely recognized for his contributions towards the social, political, and educational reforms aimed at enhancing the status and rights of Dalits in India. However, the story of his life is incomplete without acknowledging the women who stood beside him. This article delves into the lives of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar's first wife, Ramabai (also known as Rama Bai), and their surviving child, Yeshwantarao (Yashwantrao).

Childhood Marriage and Early Life

Ramabai was Dr. Ambedkar's first wife, and she remained by his side from their earliest days. She was first married to Dr. Ambedkar at a very young age, around childhood or teenagehood, as part of a strategic arranged marriage that was common in their society. This custom was not unique to their time, but it carried significant cultural and social implications. The marriage between Ramabai and Dr. Ambedkar was not just a symbol of their wedlock but also their future as committed partners and parents.

Childhood and Early Family Responsibilities

Both Ramabai and Dr. Ambedkar were arranged and promised to each other by their parents in their youth. Dr. Ambedkar's father, Ramji Ambedkar, had to pay a penalty fee to the Mahar Jat Panchayat due to the previous arrangements that had been made for Dr. Ambedkar's marriage. This is a stark reflection of the rigid caste laws of the time that carefully orchestrated the family's future based on societal norms.

After the marriage, Ramabai adopted the name Rama as per the Marathi tradition. She took on the responsibility of managing the household and caring for the entire family. Despite her lack of formal education, she proved to be an invaluable support to her husband throughout his career, particularly during his time abroad where he fought for Dalit rights. She shouldered the burden of feeding and caring for her family while dealing with the social isolation and stigma of being an untouchable.

Frequent Pregnancies and Tragic Losses

Ramabai was heavily pregnant multiple times, but only one child, Yashwantrao (Yeshwantarao), survived past infancy. The other children unfortunately did not make it to adulthood. One of their youngest children, a baby boy named Rajratna, passed away after suffering from pneumonia. This frequent loss of children and the accompanying stress and sorrow were deeply etched into Ramabai's life.

Influences and Support

Later in life, Dr. Ambedkar encouraged Ramabai to become literate. He wanted her to learn to read, write, and speak confidently. However, as her prioritization shifted towards family and household duties, she struggled to fully commit to education. Nevertheless, she did manage to learn some basic reading, writing, and study under his guidance.

Final Years and Legacy

Like her mother, Ramabai was frail, and she faced numerous health challenges, possibly supplemented by the stress and burden she bore. She passed away at the young age of 37, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and sacrifice. Her death was heartbreaking for Dr. Ambedkar, who mourned her loss deeply. The story of Ramabai and Rama Bai serves as a poignant reminder of the often undervalued role of women in the lives and achievements of these historical figures.