Kolhapur: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi visited a Dalit family in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, on Tuesday, where he participated in a unique and meaningful experience—cooking a traditional meal with the family. Gandhi spent the afternoon with Ajay Tukaram Sanade and Anjana Tukaram Sanade, engaging in discussions about caste, discrimination, and the cultural significance of Dalit food.
Reflecting on the experience, Gandhi said, “As Shahu Patole once said, no one knows what Dalits eat. With curiosity about their food and its social and political importance, I spent an afternoon with the Sanade family, learning how to make chickpea saag sabzi (harbharyachi bhaji) and toovar dal with brinjal.”
The interaction not only gave insight into Dalit culinary traditions but also opened a conversation about the personal experiences of the Sanade family regarding caste-based discrimination. Gandhi stressed the importance of raising awareness about Dalit culture, saying, “The Constitution grants Bahujans their rights, and we will protect that. But true inclusiveness will come when every Indian is instilled with the spirit of brotherhood.”
Earlier in Kolhapur, Gandhi unveiled a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji and addressed the Constitution Honor Conference. During his speech, he highlighted the systemic marginalization of Dalits and the erasure of their history in education, stating, “There are 90 per cent Dalits in this country, but doors remain closed for them. You can see this across sectors.”
The Congress leader’s visit and engagement with the Dalit community is part of his ongoing efforts to address social issues and promote inclusiveness in Indian society.
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