ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a brief account of the formation of the Ravidasi community identity and its possible social and developmental implications for members of the community, and the manner in which it alters the organization of caste in the emerging regional, national and global contexts. Beginning in the early 20th century, the region has witnessed some interesting processes of mobility and mobilizations among sections of its ex-untouchable communities. The beginning of modern-day Dalit politics in Punjab can be located in the changing socio-economic and political scenario of the region after the establishment of colonial rule during the second half of the 19th century. The leadership of the Ad-Dharm movement saw their struggles as a religious movement. Though short-lived, the Ad-Dharm movement was successful in instilling a sense of autonomy and autonomous community among the Chamar Dalits of Doaba.
