Dalits, Sankalp Bhoomi and Emergent Public Sphere: Redefining the Future as Present

Abstract

Heterodox apotheosis occurs in multiple ways, especially when ideas and ideals are subject to singular, theocratic, and neoliberal interpretations. The overwhelming presence of singular norms reinforces the status quo and constructs the mirage of normalcy. This becomes the recurrent reference for every possible explanation for the arrival of not-newness, particularly from ideals and ideas of communities subjected to historical exploitation and sociological moorings. This study of Sankalp Bhoomi examines a site where political thought meets contemporary sociology, offering a continuum of critique, resistance, and an emergent worldview. Sankalp Bhoomi (resolution against exploitation and caste) is a place in the city of Vadodara, wherein on 23 September 1917, B.R. Ambedkar (1891–1956) stayed for five hours before catching the train to Bombay (present-day Mumbai in the state of Maharashtra, India) after being expelled from the Inn owned by a Parsi on account of being non-Parsi and failing to get lodging on account of being untouchable.