Write a short note on Subaltern.

The term "subaltern" originated in the field of postcolonial studies and refers to individuals or groups who occupy subordinate positions within social, political, and cultural hierarchies. Coined by Italian Marxist thinker Antonio Gramsci, the concept gained prominence through the work of scholars like Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, who expanded its application to include marginalized voices and perspectives beyond the colonial context.

Subaltern studies seek to amplify the voices and experiences of those historically marginalized or silenced by dominant power structures, including colonized peoples, indigenous communities, women, lower castes, and other oppressed groups. By centering the narratives and agency of subaltern subjects, scholars aim to challenge dominant discourses and expose the complex intersections of power, identity, and resistance.

Understanding the perspectives and struggles of the subaltern is crucial for achieving social justice and fostering inclusive forms of knowledge production. It requires acknowledging the diversity of human experiences and recognizing the ways in which intersecting systems of oppression shape social realities. By amplifying subaltern voices, scholars and activists contribute to a more equitable and just society that honors the dignity and agency of all its members.