"Baluta" is a groundbreaking book in Marathi literature, written by the renowned Dalit writer, Daya Pawar. Published in 1978, it is considered to be the first Dalit literature in Maharashtra and one of the most significant literary works of the 20th century. The book offers a rare insight into the lives and struggles of the Dalit community in Maharashtra, their culture, customs, and traditions.
The title "Baluta" is a Marathi word that means "the debt." The book is an autobiographical account of Pawar's life, growing up as a Dalit in Maharashtra. It portrays the hardships he and his family faced due to the caste discrimination prevalent in the society at the time. The book is divided into three parts, each covering a different period in Pawar's life.
The first part, "Jhunjar," describes Pawar's childhood and his experiences of poverty and discrimination. He talks about the oppressive social and economic conditions faced by Dalits in rural Maharashtra, where they were forced to work as bonded laborers for upper-caste landlords. Pawar also highlights the brutal nature of the caste system, which dictated the way people lived and interacted with each other.
The second part, "Khel," covers Pawar's teenage years and his involvement in various social and political movements. He talks about his experiences of joining the Dalit Panthers, a revolutionary political party that fought for the rights of the Dalit community. Pawar also describes his journey towards self-discovery and how he came to understand the systemic nature of caste oppression.
The final part, "Tumhala ka?" is a reflection on Pawar's life and the struggles faced by the Dalit community. He talks about the need for social and political reform and how the caste system continues to impact the lives of millions of people in India. Pawar also highlights the importance of education and the need for Dalits to assert their identity and demand their rights.
Overall, "Baluta" is a powerful and moving book that provides a rare insight into the lives and struggles of the Dalit community in Maharashtra. Through his own life story, Daya Pawar sheds light on the social and economic conditions faced by Dalits in India and highlights the need for social and political reform. The book has become a landmark in Marathi literature and continues to inspire generations of readers and writers alike.
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