Famine, Caste Differences and Missionary Christianity in Colonial India: Burning Hunger

Abstract

This article sheds light on the conditions of Dalits, their experience of caste differences, discrimination and destitution during the Great Famine of 1876–78 in Rayalaseema, one of the Telugu-speaking regions of Madras Presidency. It highlights how existing caste practices defined and shaped famine relief measures, re-entrenching caste hierarchies. The caste location of Dalits aggravated the severity of their living conditions and social life in the village space and in relief works organised by the colonial government, which further reinforced caste inequalities and institutionalised social distancing. Consequently, Dalits experienced hunger, destitution and further marginalisation in society. During such conditions, the humanitarian concerns and charitable activities of missionaries had a profound impact on Dalits.