Shailaja Paik, a distinguished Indian-American professor and historian, has made history by becoming the first Dalit recipient of the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship, often referred to as the “genius grant.” Awarded by the MacArthur Foundation, this honor comes with a substantial grant of $800,000 intended to support individuals who demonstrate extraordinary creativity and potential in their respective fields.
Paik’s groundbreaking research focuses on the intersection of caste, gender, and sexuality, particularly concerning Dalit women in India. Her work not only sheds light on the struggles faced by these marginalized communities but also emphasizes their resilience and agency in the face of systemic discrimination.
In her recent statements following the award announcement, Paik expressed her hope that this recognition would encourage non-Dalits to stand in solidarity with Dalits against caste, gender, and racial discrimination. She highlighted the historical sacrifices made by Dalits for social justice and called for collective action to address these ongoing issues. Paik’s scholarship has significantly contributed to Dalit studies, providing new insights into how gender and sexuality intersect with caste dynamics to perpetuate discrimination against Dalit women. Her research draws from a rich array of sources, including oral histories and ethnographic interviews, which she plans to archive for future scholarship.
Paik’s notable publications include her first book, Dalit Women’s Education in Modern India: Double Discrimination, which explores the educational challenges faced by Dalit women. Her second book, The Vulgarity of Caste: Dalits, Sexuality, and Humanity in Modern India, examines the lives of Tamasha performers-Dalit women who navigate societal stigma while asserting their cultural identity through performance art. Through her work, Paik aims to illuminate the complex realities of Dalit women’s lives and challenge prevailing narratives that marginalize their experiences.
The MacArthur Fellowship is a significant acknowledgment not only of Paik’s individual contributions but also of the broader struggles faced by the Dalit community. As she embarks on this new chapter with the support of the fellowship, Shailaja Paik remains committed to advancing social justice and fostering a deeper understanding of caste-related issues both in India and globally. Her journey exemplifies how dedicated scholarship can challenge entrenched social norms and contribute to meaningful change in society.
