Dalit art festivalVaanam puts the spotlight caste identity

The caste system in India does not paint a rosy picture, so why expect those at its receiving end to do so? “We are a collective of Dalit and non-Dalit artists who showcased our works revolving around Dalit art in April at the Vaanam Art Festival organised by the Neelam Cultural Centre for Dalit History Month. Films, plays and talks this weekend Saturday Talks 11am: Emergence of Dalit History through fiction by K Ragupathi 12noon: Indian society viewed through the lens of Ambedkar by AB Rajasegaran Film screening 2pm: Nagarodi directed by Dhivya Jesy 3pm: Geeli Puchi directed by Neeraj Ghaywan Sunday Talks 11am: Dalits writing culture - Stalin Rajangam 12 noon: Transformation of icons from text by Tamizh Praba Film screening 2pm: Beware of Caste directed by Jai Kumar 3pm: Dhammam directed by Pa Ranjith The dialogue of caste politics is nourished with spirituality in the works of Rajasekar that reflect on the Buddha and Nature. She reads out a small note displayed right outside the gallery: “Narrative paintings by Dalit artists that speak about caste issues cannot be mere abstractions. Though Dalit artists are merely anxious to learn and be part of the mainstream art, the art generated by them stems from acute levels of bigotry developed from the sufferings of caste atrocities by the dominant castes.” The artworks are on view and for sale till October 30 at DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum; entry is free.