Translating Dalit Narratives:
Taming the Dalit Tongue
Dr. Gaikwad Suresh Shaktiram
ABSTRACT
This paper critically investigates the “taming”
process that occur when Dalit narratives are translated into
English, particularly by upper-caste translators. I argue that the
relationship between bull tamers and their subjects is reflected in
this process. Upper caste translators subdue the raw and defiant
voices of Dalit narratives to fit into dominant frameworks. The
study also emphasizes how translations by upper castes frequently
lessen the original works’ radical intensity and cultural
uniqueness. These translations invariably soften the political edge
and everyday realities of caste oppression while flattening the
complex nuances inherent in the original language. This paper raises
important issues regarding epistemic violence and politics of
representation by emphasizing the power disparity in the
translation. It also exposes how Dalit voices are often controlled
and domesticated to align with the upper caste sensibilities. The
key texts analyzed in this research are Sharankumar Limbale’s
Akkarmashi (The Outcaste) and Eknath Awad’s Jag Badal Ghaluni Ghav
(Strike a Blow to Change the World)
Keywords: Dalit Literature, Caste, Akkarmashi, Untouchables,
Translation
