Expert Lecture
World in View: Mapping Places with Text
Date: 09 January 2026
The Department of English at Kristu Jayanti Deemed-to-be University organized an academic lecture titled “World in View: Mapping Places with Text” on January 9, 2026. The session was delivered by Dr. Irona Bhaduri, Assistant Professor, Department of English, and offered an engaging interdisciplinary perspective on literature, travel, and lived experience.
The lecture focused on utilising personal travel experience as a text, allowing students of English Literature to move beyond the conventional classroom methodologies and explore innovative approaches to reading and interpretation. Dr. Irona, positioned herself as a living text, shared her travel experience to London and Switzerland, which paved way for an array of theories and narrative such as The Travelogue Method, Encountering Landscape and other narrative frameworks that emerge from spatial and cultural engagement. She also emphasised on viewing museums as repositories of memory and power.
In addition, her visit to quintessential literary spots such as The Globe Theatre, Westminster Abbey, Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford encouraged the students to travel and view it as a pedagogical tool and to explore diverse forms of texts beyond the traditional canon. The lecture was both intellectually stimulating and motivational, urging students to expand their understanding of literature through experiential learning and global exposure.
Orientation on the Cambridge C1 Advanced Qualification
Date: 24 October 2025
The Department of English, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, in collaboration with the Centre for Excellence in Languages, organised an Orientation on the Cambridge C1 Advanced Qualification on 24th October 2025 at 1:40 PM in the A2 Auditorium. The session, led by Mr. John D’Souza, Director of The English Advantage and Chief Coordinator of Cambridge Examinations, India, aimed to familiarise students and faculty with the structure, purpose, and global relevance of the C1 Advanced Qualification.
Mr. D’Souza provided insights into the exam’s four components—Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking—and discussed its academic and professional advantages. He also offered preparation tips and highlighted the growing importance of Cambridge certifications in global contexts. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, making the orientation both informative and motivating for students aspiring to earn internationally recognised English language qualifications.
Expert Lecture: 2 on Revisiting John Milton’s Paradise Lost
Date: 27 September 2025
The Department of English, Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, Bengaluru, organised the second expert lecture under Greatest of All Times (G.O.A.T) Writers Lecture Series on the topic Revisiting John Milton’s Paradise Lost on 27th September, 2025 at 9.00 am in A1 Auditorium, Admin Block. The session was led by Dr. Lyola Thomas, Associate Professor, Department of English, Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, Bengaluru. Dr. Thomas presented the text in a manner that enabled students to connect more closely with Milton’s ideas. A significant highlight of the lecture was her discussion of Satan as a complex and layered character rather than a mere villain, along with her emphasis on the themes of free will and human choice in the poem. She also shed light on the historical and political dimensions of Milton’s writing, which provided a broader understanding of the text in its context. The session successfully made Paradise Lost more approachable and meaningful for students, moving beyond its reputation as a challenging classic and highlighting its continued relevance.
Expert Session on “Modes of Reading The Arabian Nights and its English Translations”
Date: 27 September 2025
The Department of English at Kristu Jayanti University organized an expert lecture titled “Modes of Reading The Arabian Nights and its English Translations” on 27 September 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM for the III BA JOEN, III BA PYEN and III BA English Students. The resource person for the session was Dr. Punnya Rajendran, Assistant Professor, Department of English Studies, Central University of Tamil Nadu who delivered an insightful and stimulating talk on the multiple interpretative approaches to The Arabian Nights. The lecture highlighted how diverse reading modes open up new ways of understanding the timeless text. The speaker demonstrated how The Arabian Nights functions simultaneously as folklore, world literature, and a cultural archive, thereby demanding varied strategies of reading. A significant part of the session focused on how different English translations frame the text differently for their intended audiences. Through detailed examples, the lecture emphasized how translation itself becomes a mode of reading and rewriting the text. The session also encouraged students to critically reflect on their own reading practices and how meaning is negotiated between text, reader, and context. Overall, the lecture broadened students’ understanding of reading as an active, critical, and transformative process.
Awareness on Substance Abuse
Date: 15 September 2025
The Department of English, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Kristu Jayanti University, organized an awareness programme on Substance Abuse on 15 September 2025. The session featured speakers from Culture Reformation : Mr. Mattson Poruthur, Ms. Nadine Poruthur, Rev. Theodore Vijay, and Rev. John Rakshith Prabhakar, who addressed the causes, consequences, and preventive measures related to substance abuse. An interactive Q&A session through the anonymous Pigeonhole App enabled students to freely raise their questions and concerns, which were addressed by the speakers with insight and empathy. The programme created a safe space for dialogue and encouraged students to make informed and responsible lifestyle choices.
Orientation programme on Academic Integrity Practices
Date: 11 September 2025
On 11th September, an orientation programme on Academic Integrity Practices was conducted for I BA JPSE ‘A’ students between 1:40pm to 2:30 P.M, recapitulating on the Jayantian code of rules and regulations to be followed in the University Premises. The session emphasized on the importance of holistic development of the personality and how institution plays a major role in one’s career and life. Students actively participated throughout the session and the session ended by 2:30 P.M.
Expert Lecture: 1 on Mary Shelley Across Ages: From Gothic to Global Futures
Date: 30 August 2025
The Department of English, Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, Bengaluru, organised the first expert lecture under Greatest of All Times (G.O.A.T) Writers Lecture Series on the topic Mary Shelley Across Ages: From Gothic to Global Futures, celebrating the 228th Birthday of Mary Shelley on 30th August 2025 at 11:00 am through online mode. The session was led by Dr. M. Samadhanam Emimal, Assistant Professor, Chaitanya Bharathi Institute of Technology, Hyderabad. Dr. Emimal emphasised how Mary Shelley’s works transcend Gothic traditions, engaging science, modernity, and global issues shaped by her personal losses. Frankenstein (1818) and The Last Man (1826) were highlighted as texts reinterpreted through feminist, postcolonial, and political lenses, while also resonating with debates on artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and climate change. The session stressed the writer’s outlook on balancing ambition with responsibility for humanity’s future.
Inside Tracks: Expert Lecture on Posthumanist Thought
Date: 28 August 2025
The Department of English, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) organised an expert lecture under the Inside Tracks Series on Research Skill Enhancement on 26th August 2025 in the M3 Auditorium. Dr. Saranya Narayanan, Coordinator, Department of English, delivered a lecture titled “The Animal That Therefore We Are: Posthumanist Thought and the Reimagining of Species Hierarchies through Animal Studies.” The session explored how Posthumanist thought challenges human-centered perspectives and redefines species relations. Dr. Saranya highlighted literature’s role in questioning rigid binaries, fostering ecological awareness, and promoting inclusivity. The lecture offered fresh insights on ethics, culture, and human responsibility, inspiring students to extend these critical discussions into their research.
Expert Session on Keeping up with the ‘Popular’: Understanding Popular Culture and Literature
Date: 24 August 2025
The Department of English at Kristu Jayanti University organised an expert lecture titled “Keeping up with the ‘Popular’: Understanding Popular Culture and Literature” on 24 August 2025 from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM for the MA English students. The resource person, Dr. Anchitha Krishna, Ad hoc faculty, School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, NIT Calicut delivered an engaging and thought-provoking talk that offered fresh insights into the intersections between popular culture and literature. She highlighted how cultural forms such as films, music, advertisements, digital platforms, and graphic narratives function as texts that both shape and reflect societal values, ideologies, and imaginations. Through stimulating examples and critical perspectives, the lecture emphasized the importance of examining popular culture in literary and cultural studies. The session broadened the students’ understanding of literature as dynamic and evolving. A vibrant question-answer session encouraged active participation and exchange of ideas.
Approaches to Translation from the Global South
Date: 19 August 2025
The Department of English successfully organized a guest lecture on 19th August, 2025 at 10:00 am in H2 auditorium, humanities block for the students of I and III Semester MA, V semester English honours and V semester PYEN. The resource person for the event was Dr. Roopa Philip, Associate Professor & Head, Department of English (PG), Jyoti Nivas College Autonomous, Bengaluru. She is an esteemed scholar with extensive expertise in women’s writing, gender studies, translation studies, mythology, folklore, and literary theory. The talk was titled, ‘Approaches to Translation from the Global South’. Dr. Roopa was welcomed with a sapling by Dr. Sreedevi Santhosh, Head, Department of English, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University).
The lecture was designed to provide students with an enriching academic experience, focusing on contemporary literary themes and critical perspectives. Dr. Roopa’s talk captivated the audience, encouraging active participation and intellectual curiosity. It furthered the discussion around the history, politics and the scope of translation studies in India. The guest lecture was a resounding success, leaving students inspired and equipped with new perspectives on literary studies.
Expert Session on Fundamentals of the Indian Constitution
Date: 14 August 2025
The department of English at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) organised an expert session titled “Fundamentals of the Indian Constitution” on 14 August 2025 from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM for the BA English Literature students. The resource person for the session was Dr. Sreshta Chowdhury, Assistant Professor, Department of Law, Kristu Jayanti College of Law who delivered an insightful and engaging talk that deepened the participants’ understanding of the core principles, structure, and relevance of the Indian Constitution in contemporary society. Dr. Chowdhury’s presentation covered key aspects such as basic principles of the preamble, citizenship and quasi-federal nature of the Indian state illustrating their significance with relatable examples. The talk also addressed how constitutional provisions shape everyday governance and safeguard democratic values. The session was highly appreciated for its clarity, relevance, and ability to connect constitutional principles with real-life contexts.
Shakespearean Study Circle - Expert Lecture on 'The Cinematic Quill: Shakespeare on Screen'
Date: 13 August 2025
The Department of English, Kristu Jayanti College, organised an Expert Lecture as part of the Shakespearean Study Circle on 13th August 2025. The session titled 'The Cinematic Quill: Shakespeare on Screen' was delivered by Dr. Karthika S B. She highlighted the various ways in which Shakespeare’s plays have been adapted into cinema across cultures and time periods. Students gained valuable insights into the transformation of Shakespearean texts into visual narratives, and the discussion encouraged critical analysis of both literary and cinematic art forms. The lecture provided an enriching academic experience and reinforced the relevance of Shakespeare in contemporary media.
Awareness Session on Civic Responsibility
Date: 11 August 2025
The Department of English organised an impactful session titled “Beyond the Self: Cultivating Civic Responsibility in Young Citizens” to inspire students to move beyond personal priorities and embrace their role as responsible citizens. The resource person, Dr. Manjunath M. S., Faculty, Kristu Jayanti College of Law, delivered an engaging and insightful presentation. The talk explored the evolving nature of civic responsibility, from passive obedience to active participation in a democracy. Dr. Manjunath discussed the rights and duties enshrined in the Constitution of India, with special focus on Article 51A’s 11 Fundamental Duties—responsible voting, promoting harmony, environmental stewardship, and upholding women’s dignity. Participants also examined digital responsibility, the dangers of misinformation, and legal provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Landmark case studies such as Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan and Bijoe Emmanuel v. State of Kerala provided real-life context, while environmental responsibilities were illustrated through M.C. Mehta’s PILs. The session concluded with a call for students to actively engage in civic life through campus initiatives, public outreach, and informed democratic participation—truly living the spirit of “beyond the self.”
Expert Session Report: "Ink and Intelligence: AI in the Writer's Toolbox"
Date: 02 August 2025
The Department of English at Kristu Jayanti University organized an expert session titled "Ink and Intelligence: AI in the Writer's Toolbox" on 2nd August 2025. The event was conducted as part of the department's ongoing efforts to integrate emerging technologies with literary studies and writing practices.The session was led by Ms. Malavika Mohan, Instructional Designer at Deloitte, who brought a unique blend of corporate insight and academic relevance to the discussion. With her extensive experience in instructional design and technological integration in content creation, she provided valuable perspectives on the role of artificial intelligence in modern writing.The session explored the evolving role of AI tools in creative and academic writing, offering students insights into how artificial intelligence can enhance productivity, ideation, and editing.Ms. Mohan demonstrated practical applications of AI tools used by writers today, including AI-assisted brainstorming, grammar correction, content structuring, and plagiarism detection.A key focus was on maintaining originality and ethical boundaries while using AI tools, encouraging students to treat AI as a supportive mechanism rather than a creative replacement.Interactive segments allowed students to ask questions and engage with live demonstrations, making the session both informative and hands-on.The session was exclusively designed for BA and MA English Literature students, aiming to equip them with essential skills that merge literary craftsmanship with technological advancement.The expert session successfully bridged the gap between traditional literary studies and contemporary digital tools. It empowered students with knowledge about using AI responsibly and creatively in their writing journey. The Department of English continues to foster such interdisciplinary learning experiences, preparing students for the future of literature and communication.
Expert Session on Curiosity Doesn't Kill The Cat ! Academic Writing and A Cat's Nine Live
Date: 01 August 2025
Department of English, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) hosted an expert session on Academic Writing for the students of III Sem MA English and V Sem BA JOEN and BA English Literature on August 1, 2025. The session was titled "Curiosity doesn't kill the cat!" was led by Dr. Prantik Banerjee, Professor and Research supervisor at Hislop College, Nagpur. With humor and depth, he provided valuable insights into academic writings.
Through the session, the students were educated on the various perspectives of writing an academic paper and how to navigate its challenges. A key insight from his session was, " Growing old is optional, growing up is mandatory." Teacher Coordinators for the same were Dr. Mary Raymer and Ms. Chippy Abraham
Envision
Expert Lecture on Seeking the Unknown: The Philosophy of Research Across Disciplines
Date: 22 August 2025
The Department of English at Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University) organized an expert lecture under Envision – Expert Series on Employment Enhancement on 22nd August 2025 in A2 Auditorium, Admin Block at 2pm. The session, titled “Seeking the Unknown: The Philosophy of Research Across Disciplines” was delivered by Dr. Dileep Francis, Dean of Research and Development. The lecture underscored the critical skills required to pursue research and achieve professional excellence. In his address, Dr. Dileep emphasized research as the cornerstone of academic inquiry and knowledge creation. He highlighted the necessity of cultivating depth in subject expertise, identifying unexplored areas of investigation, and developing the intellectual rigor to frame original research questions. Research, he noted, is not merely an academic exercise but a systematic process of innovation, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary dialogue that contributes to the advancement of society. He urged students to foster habits of critical thinking, originality, and methodological precision, thereby aligning their pursuits with the larger objectives of scholarly and professional advancement. He further encouraged the audience to embrace continuous learning and futuristic commitment, ensuring they are equipped to navigate the complexities of the evolving global landscape.
Expert Lecture on Envision
Date: 06 February 2025
The Department of English at Kristu Jayanti College organised a lecture as part of Envision, Expert series on Employment Enhancement on February 6th, 2025. The session, titled “Resume to Results: Acing Campus Recruitment,” was led by Prof. Sen B. Mathews. The lecture focused on equipping students with the skills necessary to excel in placement interviews and craft an effective resume. Prof. Mathews emphasised the importance of clarity in career objectives, self-awareness, and personal branding. He also discussed the role of aptitude tests, particularly in assessing speaking and listening skills. In addition, the session highlighted the significance of cognitive skills, empathy, and adaptability in professional growth. Prof. Mathews provided valuable insights on handling tricky interview questions with confidence and strategic thinking. He encouraged students to cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and futuristic commitment, ensuring they are well-prepared for the evolving job market.
DigiTech Studio
Digi Tech Studio Session VI Excel Made Easy: Mastering the Basics of Excel
Date: 30 July 2025
The Department of English, Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, Bengaluru, organised Digi Tech Studio Session VI titled ‘Excel Made Easy: Mastering the Basics of Excel’, on 30th July 2025. The resource person for the session was Mr. Ramanathan, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science (UG), Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, Bengaluru. Mr. Ramanathan conducted an insightful and hands-on training session that focused on the practical applications of Microsoft Excel in today’s data-driven world. He introduced participants to essential Excel functions such as spreadsheet creation, data storage, and the management of information across multiple sheets. Fundamental operations—including merging cells, adjusting font styles, and navigating data using keyboard shortcuts—were also addressed. Mr. Ramanathan further elaborated on key data analysis tools such as IF statements, conditional formatting, data validation, and filtering techniques for handling large datasets. He demonstrated the creation of simple databases and explained how to insert and customise charts—such as bar graphs, histograms, and scatterplots—for effective visual representation of data. Participants were introduced to various data types, including decimal values and currency formats, and were guided on how to structure and format data for clarity and efficiency. The session also emphasised the relevance of Excel in domains such as financial tracking, banking data, and academic analysis. The training concluded with a practical component where students actively applied the concepts and techniques learned. The session was well received by participants, who appreciated its interactive approach, clarity, and strong alignment with real-world applications.
THE WRITERS GUILD
The Writers Guild Session 4 Discourse on the book ‘Diaspora Studies: Theory & Praxis’ and Script to Shelf: A Literary Dive into Publishing
Date: 05 August 2025
The Department of English, Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, Bengaluru organised The Writers Guild Session 4: Discourse on the book ‘Diaspora Studies: Theory and Praxis’ and Script to Self A literary dive into Publishing, in A2 Auditorium, on August 5th 2025. The session was led by Father Joshy, Director of Chief Human Resources Office (CHRO) and Director, School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Dr. L. Santhosh Kumar, Assistant Professor, Departemnt of English, Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University. Father Joshy discussed diaspora’s role in identity and globalisation by refereeing to Robin Cohen’s theory. Dr. Santhosh highlighted on ‘eco diaspora’s’ impact, along with giving insights on publication in Springer and Taylor & Francis. Students engaged actively, raising thoughtful questions.
The Writers Guild
Date: 05 February 2025
The Department of English, Kristu Jayanti College Autonomous, Bengaluru organised Session: 3 of The Writers Guild as a part of the Skill development activity on 5th February 2025. The resource person for the session was Dr. Barnashree Khasnobis, Assistant Professor in the Department of English, Kristu Jayanti College Autonomous, Bengaluru, India. The lecture focused on the topic “Bandish as Text”. Dr. Khasnobis delivered a discourse on her book, Bandish as Text: Re-reading Khayal Compositions by Sadarang and Adrang, published by Routledge. During her lecture, she provided an introduction to Bandish music and traced its historical evolution. She also offered insights into renowned Bandish musicians, such as Nemadh Khan, who enriched the aesthetic dimension of music by blending Khayal with thematic elements, including cultural devotion. Additionally, she discussed how Bandish compositions served as a medium for expressing women's longing for their lovers, a theme that gained significant prominence in the 1700s. Dr. Khasnobis further elaborated on how ancient musicians integrated cultural aspects into their compositions, embedding them within a devotional context while maintaining a balanced artistic perspective. The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, where students actively participated. Many were particularly inspired by Dr. Khasnobis' personal experiences in writing and publishing her book. Overall, the session proved to be highly engaging and motivational, encouraging participants to pursue their own writing and publishing endeavors.
The Artistic Alliance
The Artistic Alliance
Date: 11 February 2025
The department of English at Kristu Jayanti College launched “The Artistic Alliances” as a new initiative from the department with the aim to foster the knowledge of students in the creative arts. As part of The Artistic Alliance a workshop on Discerning Creativity was organised on 11th February, 2025. The session was led by Samyuktha Rao an intuitive painter, a visual artist, art educator, and curriculum designer. Ms. Rao has been instrumental in shaping art based learning experiences for students from diverse backgrounds. She focused on creativity as the come of art. The session began by introducing us to the cave art and the need for communication that was imperative to human beings. She looked into the lack of intent in today's art. The connection between EQ and IQ, the novelty of art and the imitation of art was also very topic of discussion. The session also explained the futuristic scope of art and the involvement of AI in the dangers of imitation. The session also made us take up a favourite movie or painting and interpret it in our own ways this making it engaging and interactive. The session also focused on the mundane everyday art and the culmination of music and art. Students actively participated asking questions and clearing their doubts on the topic. Attendees appreciate the department for organising such an enriching lecture.
