This talk explores the often-overlooked artistic and aesthetic dimensions of the Ambedkarite and anti-caste movements, tracing their roots from the time of the Buddha to the present. Through a rich visual presentation—including photographs, artworks, and objects—it highlights how aesthetics have been central to anti-caste resistance, identity formation, and social transformation. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s engagement with design—evident in his editorial choices for Mooknayak and Bahishkrut Bharat, his personal style, and the architectural simplicity of Rajgruha—reveals an intentional and powerful use of visual culture to communicate ideas of equality, liberty, and fraternity. The talk will examine the evolution of these aesthetics, from the symbolic imagery of Ambedkar and the Dhammachakra to the artistic expressions of Dalit Panther activists and contemporary Dalit-Bahujan-Adivasi creators. As economic and social barriers have begun to shift, more Dalit and Adivasi artists have entered professional art and design spaces, shaping new visual languages in music, film, graphic novels, and digital media. However, institutional gatekeeping and mainstream neglect continue to marginalize their contributions. This presentation argues that the future of Indian aesthetics lies in the hands of these artists—those who have long been excluded but have continued to create, reclaim, and redefine artistic narratives outside dominant-caste frameworks. By examining historical and contemporary works, this talk challenges the caste-coded mediocrity of mainstream Indian pop culture and calls for a radical reimagining of the nation’s visual identity—one rooted in the lived realities, struggles, and aspirations of the true builders of India.

Siddhesh Gautam is a Delhi based multi-discipline, mixed-media artist, designer, writer, poet, dreamer, storyteller, treasure hunter, fallen angel and an Ambedkarite. His work is a personification of his personal journey to Begumpura (land of no sorrow). He shares his glasses with the world in the hope of inspiring a deeper connection between people through visual art and encouraging people to live deeply, love fearlessly, and to appreciate this heavenly place called Earth. His work, currently focused on the visual documentation of the anti-caste movement, global warming, and gender equality---is meant to challenge your preconceptions, expand your mind and evoke feelings of agitation, exploration,  and deeper connection with the self. Additionally, his work has been published in some esteemed organisations such as BBC, The Guardian, The Wire, The Hindu, etc. He has also worked with and given lectures and talks at various universities and colleges including Oxford University, SOAS University of London, University of Vienna and International Institute of Social Studies, Hague.