Political Cartoons

Mayawati, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader and four-time Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has long been a target of caste-based discrimination and misogynistic commentary—especially centered around her identity as a Dalit woman in Indian politics, a space historically dominated by upper-caste men. Despite her high political stature, Mayawati has been constantly reminded of her caste location. Many politicians, media personalities, and opponents have either directly or subtly referred to her background in derogatory ways. Her rise from a Dalit background to the Chief Minister's office challenged the entrenched caste hierarchy, and the backlash often took casteist overtones:
She was often mocked for using state resources, such as building statues and memorials for Dalit icons, which was criticized in terms not used when upper-caste leaders did similar things for their own icons.

Hindi Proverb (कहावत):
"हाथी चले बाज़ार, कुत्ते भौंके हज़ार।"
English Translation:
"When the elephant walks through the market, a thousand dogs bark."
Meaning:
This proverb is used to convey that great or important people (like the elephant) remain undisturbed by criticism or negativity (the barking dogs). No matter how much people try to pull them down, they continue on their path with dignity.