Annihilation of Caste

“The caste system is not merely a division of labour. It is also a division of labourers. Civilised society undoubtedly needs division of labour. But in no civilised society is division of labour accompanied by this unnatural division of labourers into watertight compartments… It is a hierarchy in which the divisions of labourers are graded one above the other.” - Dr B R Ambedkar

‘Annihilation of Caste’ is a thought-provoking and revolutionary work by Dr B R Ambedkar, one of the most influential figures in Indian history. Originally written as a speech for a conference in 1936, this book challenges the deep-rooted caste system in India and the social hierarchy it creates. Dr Ambedkar argues that the caste system perpetuates social and economic inequality, and impedes progress and growth for the nation as a whole. He presents a compelling case for the annihilation of caste and the creation of a society based on principles of equality and justice.

With his sharp analysis and passionate writing, Dr Ambedkar's ‘Annihilation of Caste’ remains a powerful and inspiring call to action for a more just and equitable society, not just in India but around the world.

Includes Dr Ambedkar’s paper on ‘Castes in India: Their Mechanism, Genesis and Development’ and quotable quotes


Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was born in 1891 into an ‘Untouchable’ family of modest means. One of India’s most radical thinkers, he transformed the social and political landscape in the struggle against British colonialism. He was a prolific writer who oversaw the drafting of the Indian Constitution and served as India’s first Law Minister. In 1935, he publicly declared that though he was born a Hindu, he would not die as one. Ambedkar eventually embraced Buddhism, a few months before his death in 1956.