In the grand narrative of India’s civilizational journey, the role of knowledge and wisdom has been paramount. Among various sections of society, the Forward class has historically drawn strength not from privilege, but from the relentless pursuit of learning, discipline, and responsibility toward society.
It is important to recognize that in ancient India, the classification known as varna was not originally based on birth but on duties and qualities. The group identified as the Forward class emerged predominantly through their commitment to scholarship, administration, religious guidance, and teaching. Their contributions helped shape the philosophical, scientific, and cultural foundations of the subcontinent. The strength of the Forward class was their wisdom — not wealth, not political power — but the ability to lead society through thought, discipline, and guidance.
From composing the Vedas and Upanishads to developing profound concepts in mathematics, astronomy, and logic, the Forward class invested generations in building India’s intellectual capital. They were the teachers, counselors, and reformers — providing direction not just to rulers, but also to generations of learners, regardless of social standing.
Take for example the historical relationship between mentors and their students: Acharya Chanakya, a brilliant strategist and philosopher from the Forward class, recognized the potential in Chandragupta Maurya, who came from a modest background. Through education and rigorous guidance, Chanakya helped him rise to become one of India’s greatest emperors. This is a clear reminder that knowledge, when shared with integrity, has the power to uplift individuals and transform nations.
Centuries later, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, another great reformer who rose above social discrimination, was guided and mentored by several scholars, many of whom came from the Forward class. These mentors helped shape Ambedkar’s academic journey, encouraging his potential in law, economics, and political philosophy — which he eventually used to draft the Constitution of India. The hallmark of these Forward-class mentors was not their social status but their commitment to nurturing talent wherever it existed.
Knowledge Must Remain Our Guiding Force
In today’s democratic and constitutional India, where every citizen enjoys equal rights, the path to national unity must once again be guided by knowledge, merit, and mutual respect. The Forward class continues to contribute meaningfully in fields such as science, education, judiciary, technology, and governance — not as a matter of entitlement, but as a duty they have historically upheld.
However, it’s essential that society moves beyond identity-based divisions and embraces a meritocratic culture. True equality is not just about equal rights but about creating a system where ability, integrity, and effort determine success — values that the Forward class has long stood for.
Forward, Not Divided
Using labels like “upper” or “lower” serves no constructive purpose. Instead, let us recognize and respect the term Forward class for what it represents — a legacy of thinkers, reformers, educators, and nation-builders. Their forwardness is not about status but about their unwavering belief in the power of ideas, discipline, and social progress.
It is time to rise above inherited divisions and embrace inherited values — and if there is one inheritance that can unify this country, it is the heritage of wisdom and learning. Let knowledge be our strength, and forward-thinking be our common ground.
Unmukt 
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