British Untouchables: A Study of Dalit Identity and Education

📘 Book Details

• Author: Paul Ghuman

• Publisher: Routledge

• Language: English

• Edition: Reprint

• ISBN: 9781138243132

• Pages: 140

• Cover: Paperback

• Release Date: 08-11-2016

📝 About The Book

"Dalits in Britain" by Paul Ghuman is a pivotal work that sheds light on the intersection of caste discrimination, racial prejudice, and the challenges faced by Dalit communities in the UK. This insightful study explores the experiences of second-generation Dalit professionals, who, in the late 1990s, began challenging the societal norms of caste and Brahmanism both in the West and in South Asia.

Based on extensive fieldwork and qualitative research methodology, the book offers a detailed exploration of the educational challenges faced by Dalit children and young people in Britain. Through in-depth interviews with parents, teachers, and students, alongside detailed observations in homes, schools, and places of worship (like gurdwaras), Ghuman uncovers the intricate realities of socialization, schooling, examination success, parental perceptions, and cultural conflicts.

This comprehensive study delves deeply into the role of education in shaping the lives of Dalit children, with a focus on bilingualism, acculturation patterns, and the effects of caste and social identities on educational outcomes. The book also provides a thorough introduction to the religious concepts underpinning the notion of "untouchability" within Hinduism, offering readers a broader understanding of the systemic oppression faced by Dalits.

A significant contribution to the under-researched community of Dalits in Britain, Ghuman’s work provides a voice to an often overlooked segment of the population and offers valuable insights into their struggles, resilience, and the pursuit of educational success. This book is essential for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of caste, identity, and education within the South Asian diaspora.