Dear Brothers and Sisters.

From the time I am aware, my father has been taking me to various functions that involve our people, be it Babasahebs Birthday, death day or Human rights function. I have been thought about Ambedkar right from my child hood. But Ambedkarism never inspired me that much, its only after practicing Buddhism I realized what a great man Babasaheb was and the importance of Ambedkarism.

I was not a born Buddhist( in sense we did not "convert" like many did when Babasaheb asked to do so.) But i went to Buddhism because a person who gave me everything that i have today asked me to do so. I put my complete effort in "understanding" Buddhism, and if at all i am in good position today its because of Babasaheb and Lord Buddha. Baba saheb because he gave me the opportunity and showed me a way to Buddhism, and Buddha because he thought how to lead a happy life.

A true Ambedkarite, in my opinion should not just talk about Buddhism but he must make that little effort to Understand Buddhism and Practice it. We think that by taking Tisarana and Panchasheel we all become Buddhist. For a real Buddhist these are just one of the of things. but the most important thing is meditation. take it from me, its a first hand experience i have had. Meditation has helped me to grow not only spiritually but professionally too. It has made me a better human being.

I request all my fellow Ambedkarites ( they may be Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs or Christians) please make a effort in finding why Baba saheb asked us fellow Buddhism. Its not for changing religion. its for us Improve intellectually. and the only way to improve intellectually is by meditating. If Baba Saheb had lived for little longer i am sure he would have added one more rule to the three golden rule." Educate Meditate Agitate and Organize".

Its never too late to begin meditation. if you need to learn mediation there is a very nice site. www.buddhanet.net .

before ending this mail i would like to state Kalama Sutha.

Do not believe in anything (simply) because you have heard it. Do not believe in tradition because they have been handed down for many generations. Do not believe in anything because it is spoken and rumored by man. Do not believe in anything (simply) because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teacher and elders. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all then accept it and live up to it.

-Buddha

With Metta

Sashi

Please note this mail is not to offend any of my Brothers and Sisters who are not following Buddhism. It is just my perspective. Irrespective of what you follow, you are all my Brothers and Sisters.