Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, also known as Babasaheb, was a social reformer, jurist, and chief architect of the Indian Constitution. He fought for the rights of the marginalised communities, including the Dalits, and was a strong advocate of their empowerment.
Celebrated on the 14th of April every year, Ambedkar Jayanti honours his contributions to the society. This blog will cover his favourite dishes to pay a tribute to him.
Plain rice, Chapati & Dal
What most of us didn’t know about him is that he was an expert in cooking and sometimes made his own meal. He liked it as it is easily digestible & is good for health! Plain boiled rice with Arhar or Masoor Dal were one of his favourites! He even wrote about the importance of food in the lives of Dalits and how they were often denied access to certain foods.
Chapatis, Curd & Seasonal Vegetables
A well-known comfort food, this combination works during all seasons. It is also quick to make and cools down the body! Babasaheb is said to have preferred simple vegetarian food and considered chapatis and curd as his favorite dishes.
Tea, Papad & Biscuit
It is believed that tea, papad, and biscuits were among the favorite snacks of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. It is clear that Dr. Ambedkar was a simple person who preferred vegetarian food and encouraged others to adopt a similar lifestyle. He believed that food should be a source of sustenance and not a means of displaying wealth or status.
Seafood
He loved seafood, and between meetings, he would prepare fresh fish in the Konkan way with lots of kokum and coconut. This method would add so much texture and flavour to the fish!
Bombil or Bombay Duck
Bombil chutney is said to be a favourite of Babasaheb’s, and he frequently prepared it for his group of friends as well. Sometimes known as Bombay Duck, this can be consumed fresh, battered, and fried, or dried and cooked in a curry. Dried Bombay Duck is used in pickles, served with greens to go with bhakri, and preferred as a chutney too.
Also Read: https://www.masalabox.com/5-essential-rules-for-cooking-fish-and-seafood
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was a remarkable leader and champion of marginalized communities. His favourite foods and dishes offer a glimpse into his life and his culture. On Ambedkar Jayanti, let us remember his contributions and celebrate his legacy by trying out some of his favourite dishes. It is a fitting tribute to a man who fought for equality and justice for all.
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