The MacArthur 'Genius' Grant.
The MacArthur Fellowship, also called the ‘Genius’ Grant, is a special award for super creative and intelligent people! Winners get $800,000 (Rs 6,72,61,595) paid in parts over five years to help them do amazing things.
The MacArthur Foundation, based in Chicago, USA, was started in 1970 by philanthropists John and Catherine MacArthur to support creative people and projects that make the world a better place.
Shailaja Paik awarded the ‘Genius' Grant.
Shailaja Paik, an Indian-American history professor at the University of Cincinnati, USA, studies and writes about Dalit women and caste discrimination. This year, she won the MacArthur ‘Genius’ Grant, which shows the importance of her work.
She grew up in a slum in Pune, Maharashtra, and faced many challenges. Her father's love for education inspired her to work hard.
She earned her master’s degree in Pune and then went to the United Kingdom to study more. Because of her hard work, she achieved great success and received the grant.
Discrimination faced by Dalits.
Before we talk about Dalits, let’s make sure we understand this - the Indian caste system is a very old and bad tradition that divides people. No caste is better or superior than the other and the people of all castes must be treated with equal respect.
A Dalit is someone from one of the lowest castes in India. Sadly, they have faced a lot of unfair treatment. They weren’t allowed in places like temples and schools for a long time.
People often called them "untouchable," making them do tough jobs like cleaning garbage and other waste. Dalits have also experienced violence and unfairness from people in higher castes. Even though the government has made laws to help them, many still face discrimination.
It's important to remember that everyone deserves respect and kindness. When we treat others well, we help make the world a better place!
