The “Neo-Buddhist movement,” also known as the “Ambedkarite Dalit-Buddhist movement” or “Neo-Buddhism,” is a distinct branch of Buddhism that emerged in the 20th century, primarily led by the Indian social reformer and jurist Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.

While this movement is rooted in the core principles of Buddhism, it also has some key differences from traditional Buddhist schools and philosophies:

1. Social and Political Focus:
   • The Neo-Buddhist movement places a strong emphasis on addressing social injustice, caste discrimination, and the empowerment of the historically marginalized Dalit community in India.
   • Ambedkar’s approach was to use Buddhism as a tool for social and political transformation, aiming to challenge the oppressive caste system and provide an alternative to the traditional Hindu social structure.
2. Interpretation of Buddhist Teachings:
   • The Neo-Buddhists interpret Buddhist teachings through the lens of social justice and human dignity, with a particular focus on the Buddha’s teachings on equality, non-violence, and the rejection of caste-based discrimination.
   • Ambedkar emphasized the importance of the Buddha’s doctrine of “Annihilation of Caste” and its relevance in addressing the oppression faced by the Dalits.
3. Emphasis on Conversion and Mass Mobilization:
   • The Neo-Buddhist movement actively encourages mass conversion to Buddhism, particularly among the Dalit population, as a means of empowerment and liberation from the caste system.
   • Ambedkar himself led a large-scale conversion ceremony in 1956, where he and hundreds of thousands of his followers formally converted to Buddhism.
4. Adaptations and Modifications:
   • While adhering to the core principles of Buddhism, the Neo-Buddhists have introduced some adaptations and modifications to the traditional Buddhist practices and rituals to better suit the needs and cultural contexts of the Indian Dalit community.
   • For example, the incorporation of Hindu and Ambedkar-inspired symbols and the adaptation of certain ceremonies and practices to align with the movement’s social and political objectives.

Despite these differences, the Neo-Buddhist movement is generally considered to be within the broader spectrum of Buddhist traditions, as it maintains a strong commitment to the fundamental teachings of the Buddha, such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the principles of non-violence and compassion.