Depiction of Rural and Urban Dalit Life in Novels: A Sociological Perspective

Abstract Dalit literature provides a powerful and essential medium for expressing the lived experiences of marginalized communities in India. Rooted in the struggles, aspirations, and resistance of Dalits, this body of literature serves as a voice for those historically oppressed by the rigid caste system. This paper critically examines the depiction of both rural and urban Dalit life in selected novels through a sociological lens, highlighting the ways in which literature encapsulates the socio-economic and cultural realities of Dalit communities. The study delves into narratives that portray the deep-seated caste discrimination experienced by Dalits in both rural and urban settings. While rural Dalit life is often characterized by rigid caste hierarchies, exclusion from social and economic opportunities, and systemic oppression, urban Dalit life presents a different set of challenges, including institutional discrimination, economic exploitation, and struggles for social mobility. By analyzing these narratives, this paper explores the intersections of caste, class, and geography in shaping Dalit identity and agency. A crucial aspect of this study is the examination of social mobility and economic struggles faced by Dalits in both settings. In rural areas, landlessness, bonded labor, and social ostracization remain persistent issues, whereas urban spaces offer possibilities for education, employment, and political activism. However, urbanization does not necessarily eliminate caste-based discrimination; rather, it transforms and manifests in different ways, such as workplace biases, housing segregation, and underrepresentation in elite professions. Through literary analysis, this paper underscores how Dalit authors depict these struggles, capturing the resilience and resistance of their communities. Keywords- Depiction, Rural life, Urban Life, Sociological Perspective, Discrimination