Dr. Shailaja Paik, a pioneering scholar in Dalit history and social justice, has been awarded the highly coveted MacArthur Fellowship for her contributions to studying caste and gender in India.
A first-generation college attendee from a Dalit family, Paik's work sheds light on Dalit communities' historical struggles and experiences, especially women, in the context of caste oppression and social justice.
Currently an associate professor at the University of Cincinnati, Paik has gained recognition for her tireless research and activism in modern Indian history, Dalit studies, and the intersection of caste and gender. Born in Maharashtra, India, Paik’s experiences of caste discrimination have shaped her academic journey, propelling her to become one of the most influential voices in Dalit scholarship. Her seminal work, Dalit Women's Education in Modern India (2014), has been widely praised for its in-depth analysis of Dalit women's intersectional challenges in India.
The MacArthur Fellowship, often called the "Genius Grant," is awarded annually to individuals across various fields who demonstrate exceptional creativity and a strong potential for future achievements. With the fellowship comes a $625,000 grant, distributed over five years, allowing recipients to pursue their work with increased freedom.
As TOI reports, Paik’s academic contributions go beyond her published works. As a co-founder of the South Asian Studies Program at the University of Cincinnati, she has played a vital role in shaping academic discourse around caste and social justice in India and the global context. Her contributions have already earned her numerous accolades, including the National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship, further highlighting her commitment to amplifying marginalised voices in academia.
Paik’s work is groundbreaking in its efforts to challenge dominant narratives and provide a platform for Dalit voices. Through her research, she has given voice to the struggles of Dalit women, focusing on how education has been a tool for both empowerment and oppression. Her scholarship extends the boundaries of traditional historical studies by emphasising the importance of caste in understanding the broader social and political dynamics of Indian society.
This recognition has placed Paik’s work in the global spotlight and highlighted the relevance of Dalit studies and the ongoing need to address caste-based inequalities.
Dr. Paik’s recognition is a milestone for Dalit studies, offering hope for greater inclusion and equity in academic discourse. Her achievements elevate her voice and inspire future generations of scholars, activists, and educators to continue fighting for social justice.