After years of struggle with poverty, his poetry has now been included in curriculum prescribed for post-graduate studies in various national universities.

"My father Bhagwan Das earned very little by stitching shoes but he opted to spend much on my education, instead of bothering about my meals and dresses," said Bharti.

"At the age of 15, I started writing poetry and articles to highlight the sad condition of Dalits," he added. While pursuing his graduation, Bharti became a columnist for Hindi weekly newspaper Sahkari Yuga.

His work has now been included in course books prescribed by Delhi University, Indira Gandhi National Open University, Allahabad University, Aligarh Muslim University and Lucknow University. His famous works include two poems -- Tab Tumhari Nishtha Kya Hogi and Shambook -- besides a criticism titled 'Philosophy of Dalit Literature.'