 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Dec 2: The Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), University of Jammu, inaugurated the first day of the Two-Day National Conference on "Re/Presentation of Women in Indian Literature"as part of its prestigious Golden Jubilee Celebrations. The event, held at the Brigadier Rajinder Singh Auditorium, University of Jammu witnessed an impressive gathering of scholars, academicians, researchers and students representing diverse institutions from across the region.
The conference was organised with the generous support of Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA).
The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolising the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Prof. J.P. Singh Joorel, Dean Academic Affairs, University of Jammu, who attended as the Chief Guest. In his address, Prof. Joorel lauded CDOE for organising a conference of such scholarly depth, describing it as a vital platform for advancing critical conversations on gender and literature. He emphasised that such dialogues play a pivotal role in shaping progressive and inclusive academic discourse in the country.
The highlight of the session was the Keynote Address delivered by Prof. Sudha Singh, Head, Department of Hindi, University of Delhi. Her thought-provoking insights offered a nuanced exploration of the shifting portrayals of women, silences and negotiations surrounding women's identities in Indian literary traditions. Her address set an intellectually vibrant tone for the day.
The keynote speaker discussed Akhil Bhartiya Stree Chintan, highlighting the rich legacy and the glaring role of women in India's past and observed that despite the evident role of women in India's intellectual and cultural history, societal narratives in the past often introduced women only in relation to men. Yet examples from ancient texts-such as Maitree and Gargi and even vivah mantras authored by women-clearly demonstrate that women held independent identities, voices, and contributions that shaped family, society and thought. Prof. Sudha Singh concluded that the true representation of women will emerge not merely through discussions, explorations or demonstrations, but through a deeper evolution of thought-an awakening of the collective mind that provokes reflection, challenges outdated perceptions and inspires meaningful change. |
