Themenabend: Die ‚Dalit‘ – Einblicke & Perspektiven

In the organizer's words:

Formerly often referred to as 'casteless' and 'pariahs' (untouchables), the 'Dalit' are at the bottom of India's religious and social hierarchy - despised, neglected and often humiliated, they fight for recognition and equal rights. Only recently has it been possible to draw international attention to their fate and to gradually campaign against discrimination and for their emancipation.

In light of the current situation, the Cologne Indo-German Society, in cooperation with the Catholic parish Church for Cologne, is offering an information event at which we will take a differentiated look at the Dalit community and look together at the opportunities and challenges of their social position.

Indian grooves by Prashanthi Sankaran invite you to linger and exchange ideas at the information stands of various organizations, including Andheri Hilfe e.V., Indienhilfe Köln e.V. and Spic Macay. In addition, two multimedia presentations will provide a direct insight into the reality of Dalit life.

Prof. Dr. Indranil Acharya, Professor of English at Vidyasagar University, West Bengal, will report on nationwide prejudices against the 'Dalit' community. Using examples from Indian literature, he illustrates the stereotypical portrayal of Dalits in the public eye, which is still widespread today.

Helma Ritscher, former chairperson of DIG Remscheid and member of our society's advisory board, will present our educational scholarship for Dalits in the vicinity of Varanasi (Benares). Her lively contribution will be framed by pictures and personal reports of experiences on site. Since 2012, the scholarship has enabled up to 50 students from the Dalit community to attend school and obtain a university entrance qualification every year.