But Babasaheb made sure that all forms of discrimination against us were stopped, not just the tying of the broom,” a colleague ruffles his hair affectionately and corrects him. “No, many people worked to remove that practice. But Babasaheb changed that,” he tells me, respect and anger warring in his eyes. “Do you know earlier people from our community had to tie a broom behind them as they walked? They said even our footsteps would sully the earth. This community has through centuries been relegated to what are regarded as “impure” professions – sweeping, collection of night soil, and playing musical instruments, especially those made from animal skins. Satyvrat belongs to the Bhangi or Mehtar community that has traditionally been treated as untouchables not just by the upper castes, but by Dalits themselves. He will not take up the profession that has been forced onto his community for generations – sweeping and scavenging. But Satyvrat has decided he will not follow in his family’s footsteps. His mother, Shakuntala, and sisters work as cleaners in homes and offices. Much of the money however went into his drinking He passed away earlier in the year. His father used to be a cleaner at a hotel. Satyvrat’s given name, I learn, is Vishal. He has done more for us than god ever did.” The “he” little Satyvrat is talking about is none other than the man after whom he has been named – Babasaheb Ambedkar. He is Satyvrat Ambedkar, a 13-year-old resident of Gwal Toli, Kanpur. A shy smile plays on his lips even as his dark brown eyes reflect conviction and determination.
A thick black belt latches his blue denims firmly to his thin frame.
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