Ambedkar is the Father of Indian Constitution. He is Independent India's first Law Minister. In an era when the caste system was so severe in India which resulted in social inequality & injustice, Ambedkar took it to himself to create social reforms to bring about equality and against the discrimination of untouchables (dalits). Posthumously he was awarded Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of India.
When Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, visited London, he opened this building called the Ambedkar House, as a memorial for the social reformist in India, Shri Bhimarao Ramji Ambedkar.
This was exactly the place where Ambedkar lived when he was a student of London School of Economics in 1921-22 when India was still under British Raj. Today the property has been acquired by the Maharashtra State Govt where Ambedkar hails from, in Sept 2015.
Its a 3 storied building and the ground floor has been converted to a museum and the upper floors are to be let to deserving Indian students who study in London. The entire apartment is 2050 sq ft and a 6 bedroom building.
Very similar to the English Heritage Blue Plaques, here is a Blue Plaque that says the Indian Crusader for Social Justice Dr.Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar lived here.
As soon as I entered there was a golden plaque that said Modi inaugurated this Museum. On the right are 2 major rooms where several pictures, incl rare ones and his letters of Ambedkar kept on display. His quotes were also in display incl his most famous one 'Liberty, Equality and Fraternity'. There's a huge bust of Ambedkar in display as well along with a small golden sculpture of Buddha, the Lord he believed in.
To Get There:
Nearest Tube Station: Chalk Farm (Northern Line operates here)
Address: 10, King Henry's Rd, London NW3 3RP
I always like learning something new about your history from your posts. Never heard of Ambedkar or his house before in London, but it's good to know it's here! Very interesting to know he's the father of the Indian constitution too!
ReplyDeleteThe fact that former Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, opened Ambedkar House as a memorial for Mr Ambedkar is a significant part of history. I know when I go abroad and see things like this from my culture I pay a little more attention. It's good this is a listed building and has the official plaque!
ReplyDeleteI have never heard of Mr Ambekar before but I belive that he truly deserve this memorial house in England because the caste system in India is very aweful! I am glad that this man tried to do something about it!
ReplyDeleteGosh he sounds interesting. Thanks for telling me something new about my home town.
ReplyDeleteWhat a neat experience to be able to walk through the very apartment of such a significant and noble political figure. Though I've been to London multiple times, I've never had the chance to visit the Ambedkar House- will have to rectify that next time I'm there! Such a cool spot to learn about India's history.
ReplyDeleteWell this is very interesting! Although I'm not a fan of Modi, I do recognize Ambedkar's attempts at social justice. This is a great tribute to him.
ReplyDeleteI have actually never heard of this place before. It looks so neat and full of history. I would love to go here sometime and check it out. Thank you for sharing this neat and cool place!
ReplyDeleteThe 3 story building and art look so historically interesting. The stories are inspiring as well. Thanks for sharing these great photos!
ReplyDeleteMr. Ambedkar sounds interesting about his inspiring historical story. I would love to visit this place someday. To learn more about Mr. Ambedkar.
ReplyDeleteHow interesting! I had no idea about this part of Indian history, or that this museum existed in London. Ambedkar sounds like a very inspirational figure.
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting place! How awesome that you were able to walk through such a historical place. I'm pretty sure I passed this building when walking around London earlier this year!
ReplyDeleteWow, it’s so great to see that a leader like Ambedkar being honoured in another nation by dedicating a house in his memory. The house gives a nice peak into the life of the person who designed Indian Constitution. I must say it is truely a lovely experience.
ReplyDeleteAw what a great legacy! It sounds like Ambedkar was a great scholar and leader, and deserved the recognition that this house provides. I'm so glad you got to visit and share this with us!
ReplyDeleteWow so glad to hear that Ambedkar house open up in London. Now one more place added to my ever growing London bucket list :) The architecture of the building looks nice and even the interiors look wonderful. Thanks for a nice recommendation.
ReplyDeleteSlowly the world is struggling towards societies leaded by principles of freedom and equality. I am touched every time I got to know about places, as the Ambdekar House, where cultures different from mine give their homage to the ones who fought and fight for freedom.
ReplyDeleteIt must have been so cool to visit a place with so much history. I bet you really enjoyed walking through where Ambedkar has lived. I will definitely check it out when I’m in London if I get the chance!
ReplyDeleteThis house is so interesting to visit.. Great sharing.. I'd like to step in and hv a look one day..
ReplyDeleteIt's satisfying to read the historical information you're providing with your travels. Very good!
ReplyDeleteHappy holidays :)
Whoa! I didn’t know there was an Ambedkar House in London. I am so glad that Modi ji took this initiative. I would love to visit the place where Ambedkar stayed. I am sure many Indians would love to see this. Thanks for sharing this lesser known fact.
ReplyDeleteAmbedkar is probably one of the least acknowledged, but among the most significant architects of modern India. It is great to see that he is beginning to receive his due from the Indian government and the general public.
ReplyDelete