This book documents the lives of the most oppressed people in India - the Dalit women, who were formerly known as untouchable. It explores their daily lives in marriage, marriage to the gods, trafficking, beggars, working in the fields, surviving in the slums, religion and political activism, whilst also documenting some of the important Dalit woman leaders this century.

It also explores the life of Dr Ambedkar, who is regarded as the true leader of the untouchable people and of women, because of his visionary approach. Through oral histories and a chapter on caste, Dr Ambedkar’s life and the Manusmriti and women, the book explores the struggles that women have had for thousands of years, which continue today in contemporary India.

The book also contrasts the lives of women who have converted to Buddhism, in comparison with those that remained Hindus; it reveals how Dr Ambedkar was the true leader of the untouchables, having been born into the untouchable caste and being the main architect of the present day Indian constitution.


India Research Press

Published April 2008

218 pages

ISBN: 9788183860734