The Department of Communication conducted a Caste, Gender & Embodied Democracy workshop on October 3, 4 & 5. This workshop was part of an ongoing IoE project ‘Strengthening Scheduled Caste (SC) Women participation in Economic, Social and Civic Activities’. This event brought together scholars, activists, policy makers and students engaged in meaningful conversations and reflected on the worrisome impacts on marginalized women. The event was graced by the guest of honor, Prof. B J Rao, Vice Chancellor, whose insights set the tone for the day’s enriching discussions. Prof. Kalpana Kannabiran, a noted public intellectual and academic, gave the keynote address.
The workshop featured a diverse panel of experts who shared their insights on identity, development and feminist solidarity. A standout moment was the captivating special lecture by well-known human right activist, author, poet and translator Meena Kandasamy.
Throughout the workshop, attendees engaged in passionate discussions. Notably, the event featured leading scholars from a wide range of disciplines, including culture studies, sociology, politics, economics, and literature. Their discussions facilitated cross-disciplinary conversations that deepened our comprehension of how democracy and its consequences are manifested in the lived experiences of individuals and communities. Overall, the workshop marked a significant step toward a more holistic understanding of the intricate relationship between democracy, caste, and society.