Paper short abstract:

Explores one of a number of such movements which took place subsequent to untouchable (dalit) movements into Christianity, and which occurred in coastal Telugu speaking areas, as well as in Hyderabad, from about the 1920's onwards.

Paper long abstract:

The paper acknowledges the extent to which non-brahmans were impressed by changes in the life-style and attitudes of untouchables who became Christians. But it also points to the particular situation of Hyderabad under the Nizam's oppressive administration. In spite of caste divisions, lower caste non-brahmans, shared many tasks in common with untouchables. Furthermore, in Hyderabad in particular, both these sections of society felt the weight of oppression, and the need to collaborate in the face of Government and higher caste exploitation. The support of Christian pastors, opportunities for education and the appeal of modernization all contributed to a greater sense of empowerment and hope for the future. But while there was a movement from caste to class feeling, the paper also points to the fact that some powerful village heads also joined the Christian churches.