The historical microdrama portrays Bhimrao Ambedkar’s experiences of caste discrimination during childhood and his journey to the United States for higher education.
Hindustan Varta | Bureau
Kuku TV, one of India’s leading microdrama platforms, has introduced ‘Babasaheb,’ a historical microdrama based on the early years of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The show focuses on a relatively less-discussed phase of his life, when he was shaping his ideas and worldview before emerging as the architect of the Indian Constitution and one of the country’s most prominent leaders.
Inspired by Dr. Ambedkar’s autobiographical account ‘Waiting for a Visa,’ ‘Babasaheb’ portrays this significant phase of his life through historical events. The microdrama aims to present the circumstances of that period without fictionalising major events. It highlights the experiences that profoundly influenced Bhimrao’s thinking, particularly the caste-based discrimination he faced and the obstacles he encountered in his pursuit of education.
Education plays a crucial role in Bhimrao’s journey. Despite social and economic challenges, his determination to acquire knowledge remained unwavering. This commitment took him to the United States in 1913 to pursue higher education. The microdrama presents education not merely as a means of personal advancement but also as a tool to challenge inequality and work towards a broader social purpose.
Interestingly, five actors portray different stages of Dr. Ambedkar’s life in the show. They include National Award-winning filmmaker Jayant Somalkar. Another cast member, Shirish Pawar, known for the film ‘Court,’ plays Ramji Sakpal. Snehalata Tagde, a former student of the National School of Drama who has appeared in ‘All We Imagine as Light,’ portrays Jijabai Sakpal. Veteran actor Rajesh Bhonsle plays educationist Krishnaji Keshav Keluskar. The show’s creative producer, Sachit Puranik, also makes a cameo appearance.
In addition to their acting performances, the cast members have contributed their voices to the microdrama. They can be heard reciting two couplets by Kabir and performing a folk song as part of the production.
‘Babasaheb’ combines live-action sequences with AI-generated settings and sequences. The technology has been used to recreate the locations and atmosphere of that era, while human performers remain at the heart of the storytelling. This hybrid production approach brings a contemporary dimension to the presentation of a historical subject.
Through ‘Babasaheb,’ Kuku TV brings a biographical story to the microdrama format. Designed for mobile viewing, the concise format highlights the formative experiences that shaped the personality and ideas of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, one of India’s most influential historical figures. The microdrama is now available for streaming on the Kuku TV app.
About Kuku TV
Kuku TV is one of India’s leading premium short-drama platforms, with more than 210 million installs. The platform offers over 3,500 microdramas across various genres, including AI-based shows. Its content is available to audiences in more than seven languages.
Former Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is an investor in the company and also serves as its brand ambassador.
Report: Shiv Kumar Rajput
