Dalit writers must stir debate: Aravinda Malagathi

Mysore, March 6, DHNS

Writer Prof Aravinda Malagathi, faculty of Kannada, Kuvempu Institute of Kannada Studies (KIKS) has called upon the Dalit community to come out with writings that stir serious debate in the society and literary circles.

He was speaking at a programme after releasing a book, ‘Gandhi Horata Yaara Virudha?’ - (Who did Gandhi fight against) organised by Baba Saheb Ambedkar Royal Society and Bahujan Vidyarthi Sangha at the EMMRC hall at Manasagangothri here on Sunday. The book is authored by H B Raghotham. Malagathi said there should be productive and constructive debate on crucial issues if the society had to achieve progress. Raghotham’s book stirs such a debate. He has been able to portray effectively different dimensions of Ambedkar and Gandhiji’s principles, the writer said. “The Dalit writings should not only focus on the loopholes of the society, but also suggest remedies. It is possible only when the writings stir a debate among intellectuals in society,” he remarked. The criticism against Dr Ambedkar should be carefully analysed to develop a response that is comprehensive and stand up to the expectations of the Dalit community. Earlier, Journalist Rajashekara Koti inaugurated the programme and urged the various factious of Dalits to forge a single forum and fight for their rights. Former mayor Purushotham, writer H B Raghotham and others were present.