: Finding no path to reform within Hinduism, Ambedkar famously declared, "I will not die a Hindu," and later converted to Buddhism. Historical Reception
: Ambedkar argued that social reform must precede political independence ( Swaraj ). He believed a nation cannot be truly free or democratic if a large section of its population is treated as "untouchable" and denied basic rights like using public wells or streets. Annihilation of Caste
: The text became a foundational document for the Dalit Panther movement and continues to influence social justice movements in modern India. Ambedkar's Perspective Traditional/Reformist View Caste Origin Divine basis in scriptures Social or biological necessity Solution Complete annihilation Piecemeal reforms (e.g., temple entry) Prioritization Social reform before political Political independence first Ambedkar's later conversion to Buddhism ? Reading 'Annihilation of Caste' by Ambedkar Jayanti : Finding no path to reform within Hinduism,
: He described "Hindu society" as a myth, arguing it is merely a collection of castes with no common consciousness or "consciousness of kind". Proposed Solutions : The text became a foundational document for
: True annihilation requires "killing the monster" by rejecting the religious notions on which caste is founded.