Ambedkar, also known as Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, was a prominent Indian social reformer, political leader, and economist who played a significant role in the development of Navayana Buddhism. Born into a Dalit (formerly known as "untouchable") family, Ambedkar faced discrimination and oppression throughout his life. However, he overcame these challenges and became the first Dalit to obtain a college education in India and later went on to earn a doctorate from Columbia University in the United States.

Ambedkar's experiences of discrimination and his deep understanding of the caste system in India led him to reject Hinduism, the dominant religion in the country. He saw Hinduism as a major source of oppression for Dalits and other marginalized communities. As a result, he began his search for a new religion that would provide equality and social justice for all.

Ambedkar's search eventually led him to Buddhism, which he saw as a religion that promoted equality and rejected the caste system. However, he was not satisfied with the existing forms of Buddhism and believed that it needed to be reinterpreted to address the issues of social inequality and injustice. This led to the development of Navayana Buddhism, also known as Ambedkarite Buddhism.

Ambedkar's role in Navayana Buddhism was crucial as he not only reinterpreted the teachings of Buddhism but also actively worked towards establishing it as a separate religion. He believed that Buddhism could provide a path for Dalits and other marginalized communities to break free from the shackles of the caste system and achieve social and economic equality.

Ambedkar's reinterpretation of Buddhism emphasized the principles of equality, liberty, and fraternity, which were also the core values of the Indian Constitution. He saw Buddhism as a means to empower the marginalized communities and give them a sense of dignity and self-respect.

Ambedkar's contribution to Navayana Buddhism also included the writing of several books, such as "The Buddha and His Dhamma" and "The Buddha or Karl Marx," which explained his ideas and beliefs about the religion. He also established the Buddhist Society of India and converted to Buddhism along with thousands of his followers on October 14, 1956, in a historic event known as the "Dhamma Deeksha."

In conclusion, Ambedkar's role in Navayana Buddhism was significant as he not only reinterpreted the religion to promote equality and social justice but also actively worked towards establishing it as a separate religion. His teachings and beliefs continue to inspire and guide followers of Navayana Buddhism to this day.