The 4th Dalit Literature Festival is set to take place on February 28 and March 1, 2025, at Aryabhatta College, University of Delhi. Organised by Ambedkarvadi Lekhak Sangh in collaboration with Aryabhatta College, Dalit Adivasi Shakti Adhikar Manch, and other organisations, the festival aims to highlight the power of literature in fostering justice, equality, and peace. This year’s theme, 'World Peace is Possible Through Dalit Literature', underscores the role of dalit literary discourse in dismantling oppressive structures and promoting social transformation.
At a recent press conference, the festival’s founders spoke about the relevance of the theme in today’s socio-political climate. As the world grapples with conflicts and inequality, they emphasised that literature has the power to challenge violence and promote harmony. They believe that Dalit literature extends beyond caste discourse, offering a global framework for justice and non-violence.
Dalit literature has long been a form of defiance, reclaiming narratives and contesting dominant representations. Prof. Seema Mathur of Kalindi College linked the festival’s mission to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision, describing it as a necessary intervention in the literary world. She pointed out how other festivals often offer only a token space for Dalit literature, while this event provides a dedicated platform where these voices can flourish. Prof. Balraj, Convener of the festival, reiterated that Dalit literature does not merely document oppression but serves as a catalyst for justice, equity, and peace.
Organisers are keen to dispel the notion that Dalit literature is confined to caste issues alone. Mohsina Akhter, a member of the organising team, explained that the festival will explore how Dalit literature intersects with gender, the environment, cinema, history, and human rights as a whole. It will create a space for nuanced discussions on themes such as environmental justice, representation in art, intersectionality, and education as a tool for empowerment.
The two-day festival will bring together writers, poets, scholars, cultural leaders, singers, playwrights, and artists from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Over the course of the event, panel discussions, research presentations, cultural performances, book and art exhibitions, and film screenings will provide multiple avenues for artistic and intellectual exchange. The festival will also explore Dalit poetry as a form of resistance and examine how literature shapes movements for climate justice and social transformation.
By reclaiming literature, culture, and art, the 4th Dalit Literature Festival continues to champion marginalised voices that are shaping the discourse of contemporary literature and social justice.
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