Caste and Resistance in Indian Literature

Mulk Raj Anand's novel 'Untouchable' portrays the life of Bakha, an untouchable boy, and his struggles against the oppressive caste system.

Bama's autobiography 'Karukku' primarily focuses on the experiences of caste discrimination she faced as a Dalit woman in Tamil Nadu.

B.R. Ambedkar, a prominent Dalit leader and social reformer, wrote poems that vehemently criticized caste discrimination and advocated for social equality.

Premchand's 'Poos ki Raat' explores the conflict between a Brahmin landlord and a Dalit tenant, highlighting the deep-rooted caste prejudices in rural India.

Urmila Pawar's writings, particularly her autobiography 'The Weave of My Life', provide a powerful voice to Dalit women, shedding light on their struggles against caste and gender oppression.

Mahasweta Devi's 'Hajar Churashir Maa' revolves around the story of Birsa Munda, a tribal leader who led a rebellion against British colonial rule and caste oppression.

Arundhati Roy's 'The God of Small Things' delves into the lives of two fraternal twins, Estha and Rahel, as they navigate the complexities of caste, class, and gender in Kerala.

In Dalit literature, 'Bahujan' refers to the majority population, particularly the marginalized and oppressed castes, as opposed to the dominant upper castes.

Dalit literature emerged as a distinct literary movement in India, giving voice to the experiences and struggles of Dalit communities and challenging the oppressive caste system.

Perumal Murugan's 'One Part Woman' explores the tragic consequences of caste discrimination in rural Tamil Nadu, particularly the ostracism faced by a young couple who break caste norms.

Asghar Ali Engineer, a prominent Dalit Muslim scholar and activist, wrote extensively about the unique challenges faced by Dalit Muslims in India.

Bama's 'Sangati' delves into the experiences of caste oppression faced by a young Dalit woman named Selvi, highlighting the intersectionality of caste and gender discrimination.

Mulk Raj Anand's 'Untouchable' is a powerful portrayal of the life of an untouchable boy named Bakha, shedding light on the dehumanizing practices of untouchability in pre-independent India.

The term 'Annihilation of Caste' is associated with B.R. Ambedkar's vision of a casteless society, where the caste system is completely abolished and all individuals are treated equally.

Arundhati Roy's 'The Ministry of Utmost Happiness' delves into the lives of marginalized individuals, including Naxalite rebels, exploring the complexities of political resistance and social justice.