In Photos: BR Ambedkar in London & Life as a Student at LSE

As India gears up to celebrate its 74th Republic Day, we look back at the life of Dr BR Ambedkar in London.

This image shows BR Ambedkar at LSE, pictured middle row far right (c. 1916-17). 

(Photo: London School of Economics) 

(This article was first published on 25 January 2023. It has been reposted from The Quint's archives on the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti.)

As India celebrates its 74th Republic Day, we look back at the life of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, the author of the Indian Constitution, during his days as a student and research scholar in London.

(Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Ambedkar joined the London School of Economics (LSE) in 1916 to pursue a master's degree. At the time, he was already a PhD holder in economics from Columbia University. Later, he returned to the LSE in 1921 and obtained his D Phil from the School in 1923.

(Photo: Velivada)

A recommendation letter from Columbia University asking HS Foxwell, a professor at the London School of Economics, to let BR Ambedkar conduct research in London and Edinburgh. 

(Photo: London School of Economics.) 

Responding to the letter from Columbia University recommending Ambedkar, LSE Professor Herbert Foxwell replies that there are “no more worlds for him to conquer," referring to Ambedkar having already completed a doctorate.

(Photo: London School of Economics.) 

(Photo: London School of Economics.) 

BR Ambedkar's application to study at LSE, 1916. 

(Photo: London School of Economics) 

BR Ambedkar’s attendance record at LSE, 1916

(Photo: London School of Economics) 

BR Ambedkar's application to study at LSE, 1920. 

(Photo: London School of Economics) 

This image shows BR Ambedkar at LSE, pictured middle row far right (c. 1916-17) 

(Photo: London School of Economics)

Ambedkar’s signed dedication to his supervisor, 1924. 

(Photo: London School of Economics)

Ambedkar's name in the LSE Register of Students, 1895 – 1919. 

(Photo: London School of Economics) 

Presentation of a portrait of Dr BR Ambedkar by the Dr Ambedkar Memorial Committee, Great Britain on 25 September,1973. Left to right: Sir Walter Adams, Mr D R Jassal (Chairman Ambedkar Memorial Committee), Ven Dr H Saddatissa (Head of London Buddha Vihara).

(Photo: London School of Economics) 

Bust of BR Ambedkar in the LSE Atrium, Old Building in 2016.

(Photo: London School of Economics) 

Photograph of Ambedkar House, taken 19 June, 2021.

(Photo: London School of Economics)