P. Sivakami Honoured with Verchol Dalit Literary Award 2025

On April 13, 2025, acclaimed writer, retired IAS officer, and social activist P. Sivakami was awarded the Verchol Dalit Literary Award by the Neelam Cultural Centre, founded by filmmaker Pa. Ranjith. The award ceremony, held in Chennai, also included a cash prize of ₹1 lakh. The event was not only a celebration of literary excellence but also a powerful reaffirmation of Dalit identity, intellectual agency, and the space for social transformation through literature.

Key Highlights from the Award Event

• Award Recipient: P. Sivakami, retired IAS officer, writer, and politician.
• Prize: ₹1 lakh and the Verchol Dalit Literary Award.
• Event Organizer: Neelam Cultural Centre, founded by Pa. Ranjith.
• Venue: Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• Date: April 13, 2025

P. Sivakami’s Address – Core Messages

• On Dalit Identity: “This is about being in the mainstream… We are not on the periphery.”

On Dalit Literature

• It provokes controversy and discomfort among dominant caste groups.
• It challenges aesthetic norms and claims rightful space in mainstream literature.
• On Writing: Initially thought of her work as art, later realized it was also resistance.
• On Writing in English: Recognized the value and impact of writing in English for wider reach.
• On Community Empowerment: Celebrated the growing presence of Dalit poets and writers.