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Young World
Dignity of labour
R. KRITHIKA
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The book traces the evolution of the community and their status in society.
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Dignity of labour is a concept that is much talked about but do we actually inculcate dignity of labour in our children? Most would agree that we do not. Kancha Ilaiah’s Turning the pot, Tilling the land: Dignity of Labour in our Times, published by Navayana, is an attempt to set the record straight. Not many think highly of farmers, leatherworkers, carpenters … but would any of us be able to take their places? Not likely.
Turning the pot, Tilling the land: Dignity of Labour in our Times looks at eight different areas: Adivasis as the first tillers of land, barbers, leatherworkers, carpenters, dhobis, weavers, potters and cattle-rearers. In each case, th
e evolution of the community and their status in society are traced; for all these occupations are confined to the lower castes. In simple and direct language, Ilaiah points out how these labourers formed and still form the bedrock of society and were prevented from bettering themselves by use of the caste system. The last three chapters (Labour as life; Labour and religion; Labour and Gender) give the reader an overview of the social set up.
Durgabai Vyam’s illustrations and other snippets of information scattered around the pages make it a must read. In fact, this book would be a valuable addition to those who teach social sciences in schools.
TURNING THE POT, TILLING THE LAND: DIGNITY OF LABOUR IN OUR TIMES; Kancha Ilaiah, Navayana, Rs. 150.
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