Dalit Womanism in Contemporary Indian English Literature

Abstract

Dalits in Indian society have long endured systemic caste-based exclusion
from economic, civil, cultural, and political rights. Dalit women face even
greater hardships as they experience the compounded discrimination of both
gender and caste, leading to severe economic deprivation. They are often
worse off than both Dalit men and non-Dalit women. The plight of Dalit
women is uniquely severe, as they bear the 'triple burden' of gender bias,
caste discrimination, and economic hardship. The anguish, frustration, and
suffering of Dalit women occupy a distinctive and profound space in Indian
English literature. This paper primarily examines significant works of
contemporary Indian English literature that embody Dalit Womanism,
analyzing how these texts depict the intersectional struggles of Dalit women
and their quest for dignity and justice. The study aims to illuminate Dalit
Womanism's contributions to literary studies and social justice movements
by focusing on themes such as identity, resistance, empowerment, and
cultural reclamation. Through a detailed literary analysis, the paper seeks to
underscore the importance of including Dalit Womanist perspectives in the
broader conversation about gender and caste in India, ultimately advocating
for a more inclusive and equitable representation in literature and beyond.