ANNIHILATION OF CASTE BY DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR
Lakshman KP (Bengaluru)
Schedule
Premiere
“Annihilation of Caste” is the title of an undelivered speech, written by Indian social reformer Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in 1936 for a conference hosted by a reformist Hindu organisation in Lahore. He not only demanded the abolishment of the caste system but also a radical questioning of its religious foundations. As a reaction to this sweeping critique, Dr. Ambedkar’s invitation was withdrawn, and the conference itself cancelled. Today, almost 90 years later, the caste system remains prominently noticeable in social hierarchies and structures. “Annihilation of Caste” is therefore more than just a historical document. Indian theatre maker Lakshman KP's performative reading is an attempt to bring the text to life. It is an act of confrontation, and an exercise in listening.
Biography
Bangalore-based actor, director, poet, and theatre educator, Lakshman KP is the founding member of the Jangama Collective. He studied at the Ninasam Theatre Institute in Karnataka, as well as at the Intercultural Theatre Institute in Singapore. His works explore Dalit aesthetics in performance (referring to the historically marginalised communities in India's caste system), delving into political modernity, cultural memory, and social identity, which reflect themes rooted in personal narratives. He received the Shankar Nag Theatre Award in 2023, and the Deccan Herald Changemaker Award in 2024, both for his contributions to contemporary theatre.
Cast
Text
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Performance
Lakshman KP | Sankar Venkateswaran
Production
Satoko Tsurudome
Info
Durational Performance: Entry and exit at any time.
For the programme BIRDS ON PERIPHERIES, a reduced ticket price applies when attending at least three events: each ticket then costs only 5 € per performance.
Accessibility
Production & Realization
With the kind support of the Goethe-Institut Munich.
