Art Side of the Moon: Aesthetics of The Ambedkarite Movement

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.

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.