Believing in Casteism as a Student of Literature....Unlearn Relearn Rethink????

Casteism is a burning issue of this society. From the history to the contemporary time, we see different examples of caste issues in society. We all are a part of this society unless we use our education as a part of living. If we don't...then what’s the use of this education????

Recently I attended an academic event, where I overheard a conversation between two friends. They were discussing whether to visit their teacher's place or not?

You must be wondering that so what if they were discussing this.

The teacher belongs to a low caste. One of them quite bluntly said that I cannot visit teacher's place because he is of low caste. Further it is added by one of them that it is a sin to even enter their house or drink water. If the teacher comes to my place I have to wash my house with Gangajal.

First I found this incident quite funny that even in the contemporary times some things do not change. Later when I came to know that they were students of some college, studying English Literature. I was shocked.

I was first forced to rethink that being a student of literature if I am also like them, then I should quit my studies. Education is not all about marks and exams. It is about life. It about how better human being you become.

This type of incidents does take place around us many times. So it's normal. Sure it is normal but when you have studied literature and literary criticism and still this type of sheople mindset. What's the use of your education? What's difference between educated and uneducated person?

Some of you might say that this type of logic is good for writing but in practical life you cannot apply. Frankly it is never hard to apply.

While studying and giving speech how easily we say that there should be equality and equity. We just study these things on a superficial level, if we have this mindset.

All the students of literature belong to humanities; Humanity, not to any caste or religion or group. If we can't change this then I think there is no point of educating oneself.

I really feel pity for people like this. It's a shame that in 21st century and still you believe in this.

At least this incident taught me many things. Thank God these things have never made a place in my mind. I am really grateful to my parents and teachers not just to teach me equality but also to make it a part of my life.

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