Etymologically, the word “Dalit” has been derived from the Sanskrit word “Dalita,” which means “oppressed.” Dalits, as a clan, may have originated at the time of the Rigveda, the oldest of the four Vedas of the Hindu religion in India. The “Purusha Suktam”1 in the Rigveda, describes “Purusha” as “the universal being” with “thousand heads, thousand eyes and thousand feet,” and it is considered that all living things are part of him. All human beings are also believed to have descended from him:
Braahmanno-Asya Mukham-Aasiid Baahuu Raajanyah Krtah
Uuruu Tad-Asya Yad-Vaishyah Padbhyaam Shuudro Ajaayata2
The lines mean, “The Brahmanas [priestly class] were His mouth, the Kshatriyas [kings and warriors] became His arms, the Vaishyas [traders and businesspeople] were His thighs, and the Shudras [servants and toilers] were assigned to His feet.”3 This designated system of “Varna” or “Caste” in due course led to the birth of many subcastes, with the lowliest people among all, the Shudras, later coming to be known as Dalits.
Dalits, who were once treated as untouchables, have been subjected to social and economic exploitation in the Indian society ever since. Dalit literary movements have often been regarded as an outcome of the constant struggle and long wars for Dalit liberation. Eventually, this movement has provided an outlet for Dalits to express their feelings, dreams, and aspirations. This movement has now evolved into a social and cultural aspect, emphasizing on self-identity and self-respect for Dalits. |
