Ambedkar Jayanti 2026: Did You Know Dr BR Ambedkar Had 32 Educational Degrees? Here’s The Complete List

Last Updated:April 14, 2026, 07:36 IST

Ambedkar Jayanti 2026: From law, economics, and more, Dr. BR Ambedkar’s 32 degrees shaped India’s fight for justice and equality, leaving an enduring legacy for generations.

Ambedkar Jayanti 2026: Today, on April 14, India commemorates Ambedkar Jayanti, marking the 135th birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar, one of the nation’s greatest social reformers, economists, and thinkers. Dr Ambedkar’s lasting contributions to Indian society, especially his advocacy for the rights of marginalised communities, continue to inspire generations.

He was not just a political leader, but also an intellectual powerhouse, with an educational journey that spanned multiple continents and disciplines. His thirst for knowledge was insatiable, and he earned a remarkable 32 degrees across various fields, ranging from law and economics to political science and sociology.

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These academic achievements played a crucial role in shaping his revolutionary ideas for the upliftment of the downtrodden, and his educational journey remains an inspiring example of dedication and intellectual rigour.

In an exclusive conversation with news18.com, Rajkumar Badole, Member of the Legislative Assembly from Arjuni-Morgaon and former Minister for Social Justice in Maharashtra, shares his insights on Dr. Ambedkar’s remarkable academic achievements and their ongoing impact on policymaking and activism today.

Rajkumar has been a key voice in the field of social justice and played an instrumental role in the acquisition of Dr BR Ambedkar’s London home, a historical site of immense significance.

Dr BR Ambedkar’s 32 Educational Degrees

1. BA – University of Bombay
2. BA – University of Bombay
3. MA – University of Bombay
4. MA – Columbia University
5. MA – Columbia University
6. MSc – London School of Economics
7. LLD (Doctor of Laws) – University of Nagpur
8. LLD – University of Kerala
9. LLD – University of Baroda
10. LLD – University of Mysore
11. LLD – University of Punjab
12. LLD – University of Karnataka
13. LLD – Columbia University
14. LLD – Osmania University
15. LLD – University of London
16. LLD – Nagpur University
17. LLD – University of Sagar
18. LLD – University of Rangoon
19. LLD – University of Bombay
20. LLD – University of Osmania
21. DSc (Doctor of Science) – University of London
22. DSc – University of Bombay
23. DSc – University of Nagpur
24. DSc – University of Punjab
25. DSc – London School of Economics
26. D.Litt. – Osmania University
27. D.Litt. – Banaras Hindu University
28. D.Litt. – Aligarh Muslim University
29. D.Litt. – Columbia University
30. D.Litt. – Nagpur University
31. PhD – Columbia University
32. Barrister-at-Law – Gray’s Inn, London

Rajkumar Badole on Dr BR Ambedkar’s Education and Its Ongoing Impact

Dr. Ambedkar is known to have earned 32 degrees across various disciplines. What do you believe this remarkable educational feat tells us about his commitment to knowledge and reform?

Rajkumar Badole:

Dr Ambedkar’s academic journey is extraordinary and stands as a powerful symbol of intellectual perseverance. While popularly cited as “32 degrees," this figure includes both his formal qualifications and several honorary doctorates.

Among his core degrees are BA in Economics and Political Science (University of Bombay, ~1912), MA in Economics (Columbia University, 1915), PhD in Economics (Columbia University, 1927), MSc in Economics (London School of Economics, ~1921), DSc in Economics (University of London, 1923), and Barrister-at-Law (Gray’s Inn, London, 1922/23).

His unyielding pursuit of knowledge was not for personal gain, but to empower the oppressed and challenge systemic inequalities. Education, for him, was a shield for those suffering from untouchability and caste-based discrimination.

What impact do you believe Dr. Ambedkar’s broad academic background had on his fight for the rights of marginalised communities in India?

Rajkumar Badole:

Ambedkar’s interdisciplinary expertise in Economics, Law, Political Science, and Sociology allowed him to critique colonial exploitation and caste-based oppression. His education enabled him to draft constitutional safeguards for marginalised communities.

For instance, his background in economics helped him identify caste-based economic exclusion, while his legal knowledge enabled him to shape the Indian Constitution, with provisions specifically for Dalits, Tribes, and other marginalized groups. His education transformed his personal suffering into systemic solutions that have benefitted generations.

How can today’s policymakers and activists draw inspiration from Ambedkar’s educational journey?

Rajkumar Badole:

Ambedkar’s journey exemplifies the need for interdisciplinary learning in crafting practical solutions. Today’s leaders can draw inspiration by using data-driven approaches that combine legal frameworks, sociological insights, and economic understanding to tackle modern issues.

His ability to combine global knowledge with local realities makes him a perfect model for today’s policymakers. He showed that education should never be just about personal advancement—it should be used for public good and to tackle societal inequities.

What role should education play in the empowerment of marginalized sections of society in today’s India?

Rajkumar Badole:

Education remains the most powerful tool to break cycles of poverty and discrimination, just as Ambedkar envisioned. For marginalized communities in India, education should offer not only literacy but critical thinking, skills, and empowerment.

Ambedkar’s vision can be realized through universal access to higher education, with anti-discrimination safeguards and financial support. By incorporating Ambedkarite thought into curricula and ensuring that marginalized communities benefit from quality education, we can foster self-respect and participation in democratic processes.

Ambedkar’s legacy proves that education is the key to breaking down societal barriers and achieving true social justice.

The Legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Path Ahead

Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy lives on in the Constitution of India, the laws that protect marginalized communities, and the many reforms he championed. His academic brilliance was instrumental in shaping his ideas about social justice, and it is through education that we continue to build on his vision for a more equal society.

Dr. Ambedkar’s 32 degrees remain a testament to the power of education and knowledge in transforming society. In today’s world, his journey continues to inspire leaders, activists, and individuals who believe in the transformative power of education to bring about social change.

Why You Should Care

Dr. Ambedkar’s academic achievements and his relentless fight for social justice should inspire today’s leaders to prioritise education, inclusion, and equity. His life proves that education is not just a personal pursuit but a tool for societal reform.

As we commemorate Ambedkar Jayanti 2026, let us reflect on his teachings and continue to work towards a more inclusive India where education serves as the foundation for empowerment and social change.

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