Atul Writes

Because the Panther Is Still Alive: Understanding the Legacy of the Dalit Panther Movement Social movements often emerge during moments of crisis, when injustice becomes impossible to ignore and silence becomes unacceptable. One such powerful movement in modern Indian history was the Dalit Panther movement. Recently, while reading the Marathi book “Panther Ajun Jaga Aahe” (Because the Panther Is Still Alive), I came across a deeply engaging historical and political account of how young activists in Mumbai came together to challenge caste-based discrimination and social inequality. Inspired by the Black Panther Party of the United States, they formed a revolutionary organization that gave voice to the anger, aspirations, and resistance of marginalized communities in India. This book not only documents the formation of the movement but also explores its impact and eventual transformation over time. The Historical Background After Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Mahaparinirvana To understand the eme...

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s The Buddha and His Dhamma : A Vision of Moral Awakening and Social Transformation The Buddha and His Dhamma by B. R. Ambedkar is not merely a religious text but a profound work of philosophy, humanity, and social reform. Published posthumously in 1957, this remarkable book presents a modern and analytical interpretation of the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha. Through this work, Dr. Ambedkar did not simply narrate the story of Buddha’s life; he offered a new interpretation of the path toward human liberation, ethical living, and social equality. This book occupies a unique place in modern Indian intellectual history because it connects spirituality with rational thought and social justice. Understanding Buddha as a Social Thinker The book begins with the journey of Prince Siddhartha — his renunciation of royal comfort, his search for the causes of human suffering, his meditation practices, and finally his enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. However, Dr. Ambedka...