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Indian American activist plays B.R. Ambedkar in ‘Origin’
Pathania is an anti-caste activist, and lifelong Ambedkarite.
EMU professor Gaurav Pathania (right) with "Origin" director Ava DuVernay on the set of the film in Savannah, Georgia. / Image - EMU
In her upcoming film "Origin," renowned filmmaker Ava DuVernay—known for her works such as "Selma" and "13th"—was looking for an actor who could convincingly portray Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, an Indian scholar and social reformer.
An ideal candidate was identified as Dr. Gaurav J. Pathania, a lifelong Ambedkarite, anti-caste activist, and assistant professor of sociology and peacebuilding at Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU). Recognized for his efforts in aiding Seattle to become the first U.S. city to ban caste-based discrimination, Pathania is set to make his acting debut in "Origin," scheduled for release in theaters on January 19.
Pathania, who regards Dr. B.R. Ambedka as the “most important figure in politics in India,” drew parallels to the iconic Shepard Fairey-inspired "Hope" poster of Obama, displaying a blue-and-red print of Ambedkar behind his desk. Describing Ambedkar as the "MLK of India," Pathania highlighted Ambedkar's pervasive influence, with political parties incorporating his image on banners, and numerous statues dedicated to him throughout India.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, born into the Dalit community, the lowest stratum of India's caste system, achieved a remarkable feat by earning degrees from the University of Mumbai, Columbia University, and the London School of Economics—a significant accomplishment unprecedented for someone of his caste. Following India's independence from Britain in 1947, he served as the country's first law minister and chaired the Constitution Drafting Committee. Regarded as one of the most educated and revered figures in Indian history, Ambedkar's contributions are widely acknowledged.
“Every day of his life was spent bringing some social change and structural change,” Pathania said. “There are movies made about Ambedkar in India, in other languages, but this is the first Hollywood movie that offers an introductory portrayal of Ambedkar,” he added.
Prior to joining EMU, Dr. Gaurav J. Pathania held teaching positions at Georgetown University, Catholic University of America, and George Washington University. Apart from his role as an assistant professor of sociology and peacebuilding, he is recognized as an anti-caste poet, writer, and community builder. Pathania actively mentors emerging scholars through the Ambedkar International Center Authors’ Lab, contributing to scholarly development and community engagement.
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