Course Glossary

A term used to describe communities formerly known as “untouchables” in the caste hierarchy.

Dalit consciousness is awareness of the shared experiences of Dalit oppression, shaping the collective voice in Dalit literature.

Dalit literature is the genre of Indian writings that expresses ‘dalit consciousness’. It gives voice to dalit experiences, lives, struggles and discrimination faced by the dalit individuals and community.

Women belonging to the Dalit community, historically considered "untouchable" under the caste system in Brahminical societies. Dalit women face intersecting forms of oppression—caste discrimination, gender-based violence, and economic exploitation—making them one of the most marginalized groups in society.

Communities that were labeled as "criminal tribes" by the British under the Criminal Tribes Act, 1871, and were later "de-notified" after independence. These communities still face intense social stigma and marginalization.

persons with physical disabilities are called Divyangjan in Indian policies.

A revered teacher in the Indian epic Mahabharata, known for training princes in archery and warfare. He is symbolic of caste bias due to his refusal to teach Ekalavya, a lower- caste boy.