Baithaks for Liberation
What is this?
Baithaks for Liberation is a new series of virtual conversations, intended as a space for critical discussion and exploration of what it would mean to construct a truly liberatory and justice-oriented Hinduism. This series will bring together scholars, practitioners, and activists to explore how Hindu traditions and teachings can offer insights on pressing issues such as queer liberation, feminism, the annihilation of caste, racial justice, and more.
These sessions will not shy away from difficult conversations, but instead will use them as opportunities to grapple with contradictions and envision new paths forward. The discussions will strive to reconstruct Hinduism as a framework for equity and liberation, creating space for participants to critically engage with Hindu thought, amplify marginalized perspectives, and connect our values to the broader quest for justice and collective liberation.
What is a Baithak?
The word baithak, from the Hindi-Urdu for “sitting,” refers to an intimate community gathering for intellectual and artistic engagement and exchange. Baithaks have long been places for transformative thought within South Asian communities—from facilitating the spread of saints’ spiritual teachings during the Bhakti period, to enabling cross-cultural exchange in the Mughal courts, to serving as centers for anticolonial discourse during the era of British rule.
We seek to honor this rich legacy by updating the baithak for the digital age through this online conversation series, fostering a space to build community and learn together. Each baithak will feature a panel discussion from subject matter experts, as well as interactive Q&A where audience members will be encouraged to share their questions, insights, and thoughts.
