‘People’
in the title of the poem represents the Dalit community who have been oppressed by
an oppressive social system in India. The poem highlights the miseries of the poet’s community. Hence, he describes the lives and his society through literature.
This poem was published as Nanna Janagalu Mattu Itara Kavitegalu
(My People and Other Poems) 2005. Siddalingaiah is the speaker of the poem.
Dalits are the downtrodden community who have been socially marginalized, excluded, and
exploited by the upper caste of the Indian social structure, and hence for ages, they have been deprived of basic education, health, and other social privileges.
Siddalingaiah
becomes important because he drew society’s attention to the plight of his
people through his poetry which flamed a light and heat that was its own. But
one of the Kannada cultural critics has called Siddalingaiah ‘the King of the
exaggerated conceit.’
In
this poem, the poet brings out themes of ‘resistance’
and ‘identity’ of his people. The
poet also describes how the Dalits have refused to be cowed down by violence
and have stood up for their rights.
Basically,
the poet expresses the pain and humiliation of his people and their socially
denied dignity over centuries. He also emphasizes the hard work and
resilience of his people. However, despite all these challenges his people have
strived to restore their existence and fought for their rights as humans.
This
poem also highlights the strength and courage of his people and they have
remained strong to conserve and preserve their culture and tradition which can
be explored today in the form of folk music, dance, and art and has remained
intact.
Hence
the poet urges his people to continue their rights and never give up hope.
Overall “My People” is a poem that vehemently expresses the anger of his people and
captures the struggles and spirit of the Dalit community.
About Prof.Siddalingaiah:
(1954-2021)
He was born in Magadi, Bangalore. He studied M.A and PhD in English, Bangalore University. Later he worked as Lecturer. As a student he supported B.Basavalingappa and Boosa Chaluvali. Today he is known as an Indian poet, playwright, and Dalit activist. He is credited with Bandaya literature and Dalit movement in Karnataka.
His important works are:
·
His Three Poetry Collections initially
released Hole Maadigara Haadugalu (1975) Saavira Haadugalu (1979) and Kappu
Kaadini Haadu (1982).
·
Collection of Essays: Avataragalu (1981) and Kakkinota
(1991)
·
Two Plays: Panchama (1980) and Ekalavya
(1983).
·
He has written Dalit autobiography Ooru Keri (2006)
Awards won by Him:
·
Padma Shri Award (posthumous) 2022
·
Pampa Award (2019) and many other
Karnataka state awards.
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