Ambedkar’s Philosophy of Emancipation: A Focus on Dalit Identity and Symbols

Abstract

This article talks about how signs, icons and symbols have become an epitome in the Dalits’ fight for democracy. Dalits, who are often considered one of the most oppressed communities in the Indian system, unfortunately bear the stigma of negative connotations even today, in some parts of India. The term Dalit refers to those belonging to the lower castes in the traditional Hindu caste system. The primary objective of this study is to analyse the importance of symbolic expression in emancipating Dalit identity and the efforts Ambedkar made to bring radical and effective change to society. Without his constant efforts, the edifice of Dalit society would lose its identity, dignity and willpower. Key to his approach was the strategic use of signs, symbols, statues and iconography to challenge the powerful and dominant forces. This article also attempts to enter the human rights discourse, highlighting the crucial role of symbolic expression in facing caste discrimination. The Dalits’ creation of statues and monumental structures enabled them to assert their presence and effectively challenge the dominance of the public masses of that time. Furthermore, this article will also discuss how Ambedkar utilized religious symbols, language, rituals and ideas to resist the hegemonic forces of caste oppression. Moreover, Ambedkar’s adoption of Buddhism and the conversion ritual, which reshaped and redefined Dalit identity and facilitated collective emancipation, will also be discussed.