BARC: A reading club that seeks to challenge age-old caste-based prejudices in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: Nestled in the serene embrace of Kasu Brahmananda Reddy Park (KBR Park) in Jubilee Hills, a remarkable initiative is quietly reshaping lush green spaces into hubs of enlightenment.

Babasaheb Ambedkar Reading Circle (BARC) Hyderabad, inspired by the success of Bengaluru's `Babasaheb Cubbon Reads’ has embarked on a journey that seeks to challenge age-old caste-based prejudices while fostering unity among diverse communities.

Founded by Niyut, a software professional hailing from a Dalit community, this initiative is more than just a reading club. It is a movement towards collective growth and empowerment. At its heart lies the concept of `Ambedkar Reading Sessions’, a unique gathering that resonates with the power of silence.

Nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of KBR Park, individuals from all walks of life gather to silently immerse themselves in the profound works of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and other influential anti-caste writers like Jotiba Phule, Savitribai Phule, Periyar, and more.

“The silence, punctuated only by the rustling of leaves and pages, is symbolic of the collective contemplation of knowledge and ideas,” said Niyut.

Niyut, the driving force behind BARC Hyderabad, believes passionately in the potential of community-based learning. He asserts that through shared reading and discussions, marginalized communities can not only understand their history but also find the strength to thrive and flourish. In his own words, `Community with the fraternity is the antithesis of casteism’.

BARC Hyderabad is more than just a literary club; it's a platform for marginalized voices. It endeavors to address the long-neglected issues faced by Dalits, Bahujans, Adivasis, and other marginalized communities, viewed through the twin lenses of gender and history. This initiative is not merely discussing change—it is actively shaping the discourse and giving these communities a powerful voice to challenge the status quo.

Since its inception, BARC Hyderabad has evolved and grown. It has hosted a series of thought-provoking events, including illuminating documentary screenings, engaging book readings, and insightful discussions.

While it began as a virtual community, it has now expanded its reach into the physical realm. The organizers plan to hold at least one offline reading session each month, along with either a book reading event or a screening. This transition from the virtual to the physical underscores the tangible impact this initiative is making.

BARC Hyderabad is an inclusive space, welcoming individuals from all walks of life who share a commitment to dismantling caste-based prejudices. Participants are encouraged to bring their books on anti-caste topics, creating an atmosphere of shared learning. All that's needed to participate is a mat and an open mind.

For those interested in joining this noble cause or staying updated on events, the official Instagram account of BARC Hyderabad serves as a central hub for community engagement.