Reaffirming the Great ‘Little Tradition’ – the need of “Dalithnography ,” in Decolonizing Dalit Culture from the Hegemonic Multiple Coloniality

Abstract: This research proposal seeks to shed light on the often-overlooked history and experiences of the indigenous people of India, particularly the Dalits, within the context of Indian Christianity. The Dalits have faced multiple layers of colonial ostracization throughout history, which have systematically suppressed their rich cultural and religious traditions. This proposal aims to address this narrative absence and bring to the forefront the heritage and experiences of the Dalit community. The research will employ an ethnographic approach, known as "Dalithnography," from the perspective of a Dalit ethnographer. This approach will involve direct engagement with Dalit communities, recording their experiences, narratives, and cultural practices.

Presenter bios: Sharon Elizuba Koshy Research Scholar, Department of Management Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kochi, Kerala India With bachelor's in Computer Science Engineering and master's in Business Administration, the author has seven years of industry experience in Qatar. Circular economy and Women leadership constitute precise areas of interest. With natural interest in making difference in people's lives, the goal is to contribute to a better socio-economic and environmentally sustainable world. Contact Information: Department of Management Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, AIIMS Campus, Ponekkara P.O Kochi, Kerala, India - 682 041 Tel : +974-66178722 Email : ek_sharon@asb.kh.students.amrita.edu, sharon.elizuba.koshy@gmail.com LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-elizuba-koshy

Abin Abraham Research Scholar, Department of Theology, The Senate of Serampore College (University), Serampore, India A highly motivated researcher and Orthodox priest with a strong dedication to mission and service. Eager to apply extensive research and ministry expertise to educate and shape students in ministerial formation. Known for exceptional leadership, personal drive, visionary thinking, and analytical acumen, driving both team and individual success. Committed to upholding the Church's Doctrine and Faith, with a particular emphasis on harmonizing scriptural, theological, and liturgical elements to align with contemporary social contexts. Contact Information: Department of Theology, The Senate of Serampore University 10 William Carey Road, Serampore, India Tel : +91-8547565980 Email : abinabr@gmail.com LinkedIn : linkedin.com/in/abin-abraham-chempakathinal

Dr. Thomas Athanasius Metropolitan Kandanad East Diocese, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church India Dr. Thomas Athanasius is a known social worker and a philanthropist. He was ordained a priest in 1990 and the very same year was consecrated as Bishop and was given the charge of Kandanad Diocese. He was a teacher at Syrian Orthodox Theological Seminary at Vettickal during 1990-95. From 1992, His Grace was the President of Kerala Council of Churches till 1998. In the theological front, he took his BD degree from Serampore College and United Theological College, Bangalore. And went for his DTh from Protestant Faculty, University of Munich. He is an author of few well-known books. A Comparative Study of Theological Methodologies of Irenaeus and Sri Sankara (1990); Church and Society (1992); Neethi Samooham; and Anthyokya Malankara Bandham: Oru Punarchintanam Orthodoxy Nadappum Sidhanthavum, are the main titles. Contact Information: Bishop’s House, Cathedral Road, Muvattupuzha, Kerala, India Tel : +91-7559293555 Email : mvparamana@gmail.com 
 

Affiliation: The Senate of Serampore College (University)