Dr. B.R. Ambedkar passed away on December 6, 1956, at his home in Delhi. He had been suffering from diabetes and other health complications for several years, which had significantly affected his well-being. Despite his deteriorating health, he remained actively engaged in social and political movements until his last days. Just weeks before his passing, he completed his final work, The Buddha and His Dhamma, which was published posthumously.
His death was mourned by millions across India, especially among Dalits and other marginalized communities, for whom he had dedicated his life’s work. On December 7, 1956, he was cremated at Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai, where lakhs of his followers gathered to pay their last respects.
His conversion to Buddhism shortly before his death also marked a significant moment in India’s socio-religious history, inspiring many of his followers to embrace Buddhism as well.
In recognition of his immense contributions to the nation, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1990. His legacy continues to inspire movements for social justice, equality, and empowerment, and his death anniversary is observed as Mahaparinirvan Diwas, a day of remembrance and tribute to his extraordinary life and work.
