Mapping the diasporic reproduction of caste discrimination and anti-caste struggles

Discrimination based on caste attributes is condemned overtly, but ‘silent’ dog-whistling – covert, coded expressions of casteist ideologies – continues to persist on digital platforms. This is largely made possible through the overwhelming dominance that ‘upper’-caste narratives and practices exert on the cultural representation of the diaspora, both online and offline. This study employs discourse analysis and visual content analysis to map the different kinds of portrayal and glorification of caste markers online and the discourse surrounding these. Content analysis focuses on recurring visual and textual elements, such as specific clothing, ritual elements or songs, that signify and elevate upper-caste practices. Discourse analysis further examines language and engagement patterns on platforms, including Reddit (e.g. r/ABCDesis) and NRI Facebook groups, where discussions on caste and identity unfold. Key contributions include demonstrating how algorithmic architectures, legacy media narratives and diasporic self-perceptions collectively normalize and rationalize caste privilege.