Film show "Arising Light" on Jan 27, 2007 at USC, Los Angeles

As part of celebrations of the anniversary of Indian Republican Day in University of California, LA, we have arranged a documentary film show on Dr Ambedkar “Arising Light” by Dr David Blundell. Around 25 students of USC attended the film show. Dr David gave introduction on the film and on his future projects. All participants very much appreciated the film. Question and answer session followed the film show. Benjamin briefly spoke of his experiences as a Dalit. Michael Arlen, a friend of Dr David and companion in making the film, spoke of the discrimination of Dalits comparing it with other oppressive systems like American Slavery, South African Apartheid etc.

It may be the first attempt to reach non-Dalits especially younger generation of Indians in US to appraise them the life and the work of Dr Ambedkar and to bring awareness on issues related to the Dalits. The function was a successful in raising a debate on this critical issue and we decided to continue the dialogue. The meeting started at around 2PM and went upto 4PM.

The function was attended by Dr David’s 85 year old mother; his god-parents (god-father being 90 years old); his friend Michael Arlen, and other friends. It is amazing to see their interest in Dalit matters and the way they asked questions and participated in the discussion.

After the meeting, the core members had another two and half hour discussion on various issues related to Dr Ambedkar and Dalits in a hotel. Despite our strong opposition, Dr David’s mother paid the bill. We gave in due to her persistence.

I thank Dr David for his time; ASHA for Education volunteers Vishal and Vekata for making it possible; David’s parents, friends and USC students to participate in the meeting and the discussion.

We are planning to have many more such events in future. 

Benjamin