Annihilation of Caste by B.R. Ambedkar (Hardcover)

“The Annihilation of Caste” is a seminal work by B.R. Ambedkar, first published in 1936. The book is a powerful critique of the caste system in India and calls for its complete abolition.

Ambedkar, a social reformer and leader of the Dalit community, argues that the caste system is not only a social and cultural institution, but also a political and economic one. He contends that the caste system has been used to justify the oppression and exploitation of lower castes, particularly the Dalits, and has hindered India’s progress towards democracy and social justice.

The book is divided into two parts: the first part is a speech that Ambedkar was scheduled to deliver to a gathering of caste Hindus in 1936, but was ultimately prevented from doing so. The second part is a series of responses to the speech by various commentators and scholars.

In the speech, Ambedkar argues that caste is a social evil that must be eradicated in order to achieve true equality and democracy in India. He calls for a radical rethinking of Hindu society and argues that the caste system must be replaced by a more just and equitable social order.

“The Annihilation of Caste” is a seminal work in the history of Indian social reform and has been influential in shaping the discourse on caste and social justice in India. It remains a powerful and provocative critique of the caste system and its impact on Indian society.