Week 4- Pavitra Naidu


Joothan- Om Prakash Valmiki

In Joothan, the author has tried to provide voices to the Dalit experience which s lacking from the our works which are on Dalit experiences. In this book, author starts by explaining his household. Household and their society is a prominent theme when it comes to narration of dalit experiences. Such a setting of scene with utmost detailing is very important to make the reader understand the experiences which have been-'othered' in the mainstream storytelling. 


   He also explains his daily encounters giving us a resourceful insight into what living like a Dalit entailed. He explains the way he was addressed and how his elders were addressed and our own experience make us realise that they us much more informal tones even with their community elders. His school experience is another important aspect. The flogging and humiliation was a part and parcel of their 'right to education'. The religion he describes vaguely resembles Hinduism, but in essence is far removed

I haven't finished the book yet but the author's childhood experience itself have opened me up to a completely new world.

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