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Retired IAS official, writer and politician P. Sivakami won the Verchol Dalit Literature Award on Sunday and was awarded by film producer Pa. Cash award for the Neelam Cultural Center founded by Ranjith.
Speaking at the award ceremony here, Ms. Sivakami said the award is important not because it is an honor, but because it presents challenges. “It’s about being mainstream. We are serious thinkers and want to change society. We are not people on the periphery. Ten years ago, we couldn’t see such gatherings. But today, I’m happy to see so many Dalit poets. Creating such a space will nurture others,” she said.
Ms Sivakami said Dalit literature often sparked some controversy. “I used to think I was sitting in a room and writing a story with beautiful aesthetics. But, I was actually fighting a lot of people I didn’t know. I’ve been doing a lot of enemies.”
“Dalit literature has caused fear to them [caste Hindus]…about their domination, aesthetics, missionary time. Now it’s time to understand that we are not threatening them, but we claim our rights. ” she added. She also talked about the advantages of writing in English.
Film producer Ranges, Pennsylvania, said Ms. Sivakami was a writer and had been in power and even made a movie. “She is involved in many areas, but she has been publicly asserting her Dalit identity. It’s not an easy option… Doing so will only bring slander, not criticism and appreciation. Her work has instilled a lot of hope.”
Mr Ranjith stressed that scheduled caste government officials often make the community less profitable. “There is a culture of fear among government officials…the work she does is commendable. Many officials privately told me that I did a great job, but I told them to use their power and do something. Not only government officials, but even those who use reservations in political representation, it’s hard to speak for the Dalits,” he said.
publishing – April 14, 2025 at 12:04 am IST
