Section Article

Contrasting Perspectives of Savarkar and Ambedkar on the Caste System
Author(s): Swati Sinha

Abstract
The study examines the divergent viewpoints of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar two influential Indian personalities regarding the caste system. Although both individuals expressed strong opposition to caste-based discrimination their ideological perspectives and recommended remedies varied significantly. Savarkar an advocate of Hindutva saw the caste system as a perversion of Hindu culture that required internal reformation. He advocated for the eradication of untouchability and the integration of lower castes into the wider Hindu community but he did not fundamentally question the hierarchical nature of the caste system to the same extent as Ambedkar. Savarkar advocated for cultural cohesion and the resurgence of a consolidated Hindu identity with the aim of progressively reducing caste divisions via social reform. Ambedkar a Dalit and a strong proponent for the rights of the marginalised saw the caste system as an inherent and unfixable defect of Hinduism. He argued that the system was based on religious belief and as a result was not consistent with the values of equality and justice. Ambedkars answer included more than just reform it was a comprehensive repudiation of the caste system promoting the eradication of caste and embracing Buddhism as a method to liberate oneself from the oppressive framework. Although Savarkar and Ambedkar had contrasting opinions they both agreed on the need of social change and the elevation of marginalised communities. Nevertheless their trajectories exemplified the conflict between preserving cultural heritage and striving for revolutionary societal transformation. This article explores the ideological disparities between them and the consequences of their perspectives on the current discussion around caste and social justice in India.