Dalit Literature Festival focuses on power of literature in fostering global social change

By A Representative 

The 4th Dalit Literature Festival (DLF) commenced at Aryabhatta College, University of Delhi (South Campus), on February 28, marking the start of a two-day event dedicated to Dalit literature, history, and social justice. Organized by the Ambedkarwadi Lekhak Sangh (ALS) in collaboration with Aryabhatta College and Dalit Adivasi Shakti Adhikar Manch (DASAM), among others, the festival has drawn over 500 participants from across the country.

The event serves as a crucial platform for Dalits, women, tribals, and LGBTQIA+ communities to share their experiences and promote peace, equality, and social change.

The festival’s opening ceremony featured a stirring performance of Bheem Geet (Ambedkar Anthem) by the musical group Deshraj, setting the tone for a celebration of resistance and empowerment. A two-minute silence was observed to honor deceased Dalit writers, followed by a recitation of the Preamble to the Constitution of India by Mohsina Akhter. The session was moderated by Prof. Anuj Kushowaha and Prof. Ashok Kumar.

Dr. Suraj Badatiya, founder of the Dalit Literature Festival, emphasized in his inaugural address that the festival is a space for “reclamation,” allowing Dalit identity and history to be celebrated freely without external interference. He reiterated the event’s commitment to remaining independent of sponsorships that could dilute its purpose.

Co-founder Sanjeev Danda provided a historical overview, noting that the festival took shape in 2019 after years of conceptualization. He highlighted the voluntary efforts that have made the event successful, underscoring the transformative role of Dalit literature in social change.

Day one featured a series of thought-provoking panel discussions on pressing social and cultural issues, including Dalit rights, women’s empowerment, and the role of the Indian Constitution. Speakers included Namesh Rai, Prof. Ved Prakash, Prof. Saroj Kumari, Prof. Vinod Sonkar, Sudesh Tanwar, Balbir Madhopuri, Balli Singh Cheema, Ramesh Bhangi, Prof. Mohan Dass Naimisharay, Prof. Sarwar Chahal, Ashok Kumar Banjaara, and Prof. Hem Lata.

In a discussion on Dalit women’s contributions to social and cultural upliftment, writer Jai Prakash Kardam emphasized their role in furthering Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of equality. Prof. Vinod Sonkar spoke about the Constitution’s role in securing Dalit rights, while other panelists addressed the ongoing struggles against untouchability and caste-based oppression.

A significant session focused on the portrayal of Dalits in cinema, where Prof. Ashok Kumar critiqued the stereotypical and negative representations in mainstream films. He pointed out how Dalits are often depicted through a narrow lens, reinforcing societal biases. Prof. Balraj Simihar, convener of the festival, highlighted the absence of Dalit-made films, stressing the need for authentic storytelling from within the community.

Dr. Seema Mathur explored how Dalit women are portrayed in films, citing examples like Prem Rog, which depicts the exclusion and victimization of widows. She argued that such narratives mirror real-life challenges faced by Dalit women, reinforcing their marginalization.

The day concluded with vibrant cultural performances celebrating Dalit artistic traditions, alongside book stalls showcasing literature on caste discrimination, gender inequality, and human rights.

With this year’s theme, "World Peace is Possible Through Dalit Literature," the festival highlights the power of literature in fostering global social change. Over the past four years, the Dalit Literature Festival has evolved into a crucial cultural movement, creating a space for dialogue, intellectual exchange, and advocacy for justice.