History, Heritage, and Intersectionality: Voices through Time

Author(s): Dr. Ravi Kumar D

Abstract:

This study examines how historical and cultural heritage in Karnataka is perceived and accessed through the lens of intersectionality, focusing on gender, caste, class, and religion. While heritage is often seen as a shared cultural memory, this research reveals that it is shaped by socio-cultural hierarchies that privilege some identities while marginalizing others. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 200 respondents across urban and rural regions of Karnataka through structured surveys and case studies. ANOVA analysis showed significant disparities in heritage engagement, especially among Dalit women and other marginalized groups, who reported low levels of representation and accessibility. In contrast, upper-caste, economically privileged respondents expressed stronger connections to heritage narratives. Qualitative insights from open-ended questions and case studies further highlight exclusion, displacement, and the invisibility of minority voices in mainstream heritage discourses. The research underscores the urgent need for inclusive heritage policies, community-led storytelling, and intersectional education to create a more equitable and representative cultural landscape.

keywords:
Cultural heritage, intersectionality, history, social identity, gender.

Pages: 70-75     |    47 View     |    0 Download