Ambedkar Ism Original and Fakes: This Book Will Reveal If You’re Following the True Teachings of Baba Saheb

Chennai- The English edition of Ambedkar Ism Original and Fakes, the 12th publication (originally in Tamil) by Gautham Ambedkar, is now available on Amazon (Kindle Edition), bringing a critical analysis of Ambedkarism and its misinterpretations to a global audience. This book provides a deep exploration into the authenticity of Ambedkarism, distinguishing between the original principles laid out by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the ‘fakes’ that have proliferated in recent times.

Gautham Ambedkar, an ardent advocate of Ambedkarism, has dedicated over four decades to spreading the teachings of Babasaheb and making his works accessible to all.

Speaking with The Mooknayak, Venkatesan Ambedkardasan, chief committee member of Neelam Culture Centre shared that Gautam's latest book draws parallels between the growth of ‘Ambedkar Ism fakes’ and the medical profession’s move towards specialization. Just as modern medicine has super-specialists for every organ, the field of Ambedkarism has seen an overwhelming rise in distorted interpretations of Ambedkar’s teachings.

In the same way that a doctor spends years of rigorous education and training to specialize in one field, a deep and dedicated study of Babasaheb’s volumes is needed to truly understand and uphold the essence of Ambedkarism.

The author highlights that, in the current scenario, leaders or political figures representing Ambedkarism cannot be the sole measure of its authenticity. Instead, the true understanding of Ambedkarism comes from a careful study of Dr. Ambedkar’s writings, particularly his volumes addressing the mental diseases of caste and untouchability. The book emphasizes that logical thinking, free from personal biases, should guide the interpretation of Ambedkarism, and not superficial markers like political affiliations or the number of MPs and MLAs associated with a movement.

In the book, Gautham Ambedkar draws from various sources, including BabaSaheb’s own works and Dr. Dananjay Keer’s Life and Mission of Dr. BabaSaheb Ambedkar. The pages referred to in the book provide authentic references to BabaSaheb’s thoughts on caste and untouchability. The author’s aim is to present these ideas in a precise manner to ensure that Ambedkarism is understood in its true form. He also notes that while it is not compulsory to read every page of BabaSaheb’s works cited, they are included to confirm the authenticity of the matters discussed in the book.

Speaking with The Mooknayak, Gautham Ambedkar highlighted the growing influence of ‘Ambedkar Ism fakes’ that have permeated discussions surrounding Ambedkarism. He explained that these ‘fakes’ have become so widespread and deeply rooted that distinguishing them from the ‘original’ Ambedkarism has become increasingly difficult, much like weeds overtaking a garden. Gautam emphasized that the true essence of Ambedkarism can only be grasped through a dedicated study of Dr. Ambedkar’s writings, rather than relying on the political achievements or the number of people who claim to represent it.

The Tamil edition of the book, first released in January 2024, is already gaining traction, and the English translation, edited by Aarathi Suresh, was published in September 2024.

The book is now available on Amazon Kindle, making it accessible to a wider audience. "It's a small 49-page book, and Amazon has priced it at Rs 49, though we had requested them to make it available for free. But I guess, nothing comes for free," laughs the author, who genuinely hopes more people can access the book—especially those who truly appreciate and have imbibed Baba Saheb's teachings in their lives.

Gautham Ambedkar has been writing and publishing on Ambedkarism for over 47 years, during which he has spread the teachings of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Buddhism. In addition to publishing various magazines such as JaiBheem News and Ambedkar Dhamma, he has also published numerous pamphlets and books on Ambedkarism. His long-standing efforts to promote Dr. Ambedkar’s ideology have been supported by key figures such as ShriKant Ghanshyam Talwatkar and Prof. Ramesh Kamble, who have guided his research and writings.

The hard copy book, priced at Rs. 100, is available for purchase directly in Chennai or through online platforms like Amazon.

It serves as an essential resource for followers of Ambedkarism, scholars, and activists committed to preserving the authenticity of Dr. Ambedkar’s vision for a just and equal society.