'Independence was only transfer of power; true freedom is equal access to everything for everyone'

The nation has just celebrated Independence Day with great pomp and fervour -- but does this special occasion evoke similar sentiments among the Dalits living in the country? No, contends author Sujatha Gidla, who was born an "untouchable" and is now creating waves in US literary circles with a provocative memoir capturing the life of her community in India.

Until recently, Gidla was just another New Yorker, working as a conductor on the city Subway. But her recent memoir, "Ants among Elephants", which not only details her memories of growing up as a Dalit woman in India but also lists the many instances of "discrimination and humiliation" that she and her family were customarily subjected to, has thrust her into the limelight.