On April 14, the annual spotlight on Bhimrao Ambedkar's birth anniversary highlighted a significant shift in the Ambedkarite movement, with Dalit women taking the lead in various states across India.
Unlike the past, where men dominated the stage, Dalit women are now at the forefront of programmes demanding equality and dignity, particularly in Uttar Pradesh where elections are less than a year away.
Women led candlelight processions, garlanded statues, and addressed conferences on Ambedkar and their Constitutional rights, distributing pamphlets throughout the month.
Groups and individuals, including Sanghapali Aruna and Manjula Pradeep, have dedicated themselves to the mission, supporting survivors of caste-based sexual violence, running education centres, and documenting the history of Dalit women's organisations and literature.
With a growing presence on social media, women Ambedkarites are spreading awareness through plays, music, and satire, and setting up their own YouTube channels, newspapers, and magazines to fight discrimination.
