A professor in the Carleton College, Northfield, USA, Zelliot has been visiting India since 1952. She specialises in the history of the Ambedkar movement and the socio-cultural status of the Dalit community in Maharashtra. She has also studied the Marathi saints and the Bhakti movement. She reads and writes Marathi. However, in her own words, ``My spoken Marathi is not at all good. It is `premal Marathi' not `shishth Marathi.''

Reading out passages from poems of Dalit writers like Namdeo Dhasal, late Daya Pawar, and recent ones like Jyoti Lanjewar and Surekha Bhagat, Dr Zelliot elaborated on the ``resonant nature of Dalit literature.'' Recalling her association with Daya Pawar, shesaid, ``There are very few poets like him who remain prolific till the end of their life. He voiced the anger, frustration and optimism of his community through the biographical writings (`Baloot'). He went to the community with singing troupes and generated awareness in the oppressed lot.'' Dr Zelliot, however, added that the ``most important poet in Dalit literature in recent times is none but Namdeo Dhasal. And while making my apologies to other Dalit poets, I maintain that no one can beat Dhasal in the powerful imagery, evocative language and bold statements against the system.''

Zelliot recalled a poem by Meena Gajvi on the change of name from the Marathwada University to the Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University. ``Oh, it takes quite some time to pronounce,'' she added in jest, further lamenting the communal riots and arson that followed the formality.

Dr Zelliot welcomed the rapid and numerous translations of Dalit writings in other languages. ``When literature is shared internationally, itgrows and flowers, and becomes universal. That is a sign of growth. I am happy that the English version of veteran Dalit writer Vasant Moon's biographical book `Vasti' will soon be released in America.'' She, however, lamented the unavailability of translators who can catch the correct idiom of the Dalit writings.

Dr Zelliot drew a parallel between the Blacks of America and Dalits of India. ``Both are oppressed classes. However, in America, you will find Blacks dominating the entertainment and sports scene. Same is not in India. Very rarely are Dalit writers honoured in India.''

She also refuted the charge that Dalit writing was ``elitist.'' ``No, I think it is not elitist. It is a direct communication with the masses. Except that in some cases, it is targetted for those who can read. But writers like Daya Pawar have written for the illiterate too. We want more such writers today.''