Expert / Guest Lecture

The US–Iran War
Date: 13 March 2026
The Department of Social Sciences under the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Kristu Jayanti University, in collaboration with the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru, organized a lecture as part of the NIAS–KJU Lecture Series on Contemporary Global Politics. The session focused on the theme “The US–Iran War”, offering students an interdisciplinary perspective connecting history, geography, economics, and international law.

The lecture was delivered by Dr. D. Suba Chandran, Dean of the School of Conflict and Security Studies at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru. In his address, he examined the historical evolution of tensions between the United States and Iran, highlighting the geopolitical, strategic, and economic factors that shape the conflict in the contemporary global order. He also discussed the broader implications of the conflict for international security, regional stability in the Middle East, and global diplomacy. Students engaged in an interactive discussion with the resource person, raising questions on the future trajectory of the conflict and the role of global powers in shaping international relations.

NIAS Memorial Lecture on India’s Strategic Autonomy in a Changing World
Date: 23 February 2026
In collaboration with the National Institute of Advanced Studies, the Department of Social Science Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be University), St Joseph’s University, and Mount Carmel College, organised a memorial lecture on 23rd February 2026 in honour of P. S. Raghavan.

The keynote address was delivered by Amb. D. B. Venkatesh Varma, who spoke on “India’s Strategic Autonomy in a Changing World.” He explained strategic autonomy as India’s ability to make independent decisions in defence and foreign policy. Tracing its evolution from the Cold War and the Non-Aligned Movement to present global dynamics, he discussed India–US relations, China’s rise, and the growing importance of technology in global power politics.

Special remark was delivered by Amb. Ranjan Mathai. The session concluded with an engaging interaction, offering valuable insights into India’s foreign policy and geopolitical position.

Guest Lecture on "Reinterpretation of Historiography"
Date: 03 April 2025
The Department of History hosted an engaging Guest Lecture on the topic "Reinterpretation of Historiography" on 3rd April 2025. This enriching session was specially arranged for the students of III BA HSPS and I BA HPS. Dr. B. Narasingaraja Naidu, an esteemed expert in the field, delivered thought-provoking insights during the lecture, challenging conventional perspectives and encouraging students to view history through a fresh and analytical lens. His profound knowledge and captivating presentation left a lasting impact, empowering the students to approach historical studies with a more nuanced and critical understanding.

Expert Talk: Mental Health and Substance Abuse: Understanding the Hidden Link
Date: 10 September 2025
The Department of Political Science, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Kristu Jayanti (Deemed to be) University, organized an expert talk on 10th September 2025 on the topic "Mental Health and Substance Abuse: Understanding the Hidden Link", delivered by Ms. Jyothi G, Founder and Proprietor of Femme Roots. The session began with an interactive open quiz that encouraged student participation and set an engaging tone. Ms. Jyothi addressed the complex relationship between mental health issues and various forms of addiction, including drug and alcohol abuse, as well as social media addiction. She highlighted how these addictions are often rooted in emotional distress, anxiety, and depression, and stressed the importance of recognizing the signs early.

Throughout the session, Ms. Jyothi emphasized the value of emotional expression and peer support, urging students to reach out and support friends who may be silently suffering. The talk also featured impactful videos on the harmful effects of smoking, further reinforcing the dangers of substance abuse. Overall, the session was highly informative and awareness-driven, equipping students with valuable knowledge and encouraging them to be compassionate and proactive in addressing mental health concerns within their communities.

Expert lecture on the topic “Justice and Equity at the Intersection of Global Climate Talks”
Date: 27 February 2025
The Department of Political Science organized an expert lecture on the topic “Justice and Equity at the Intersection of Global Climate Talks”. The event was graced by the presence of Dr. Rubina Pradhan, Assistant Professor, Centre for Research in Social Sciences and Education (CeRSSE), JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University). The session commenced with a brief introduction to the causes and effects of climate change and its intersectional impacts on different populations. Dr. Pradhan emphasized key concepts such as climate equity and environmental justice, exploring the distributive aspects of justice through the lenses of recognition, capabilities, and participation. The lecture also delved into significant global climate summits, including the Rio/Earth Summit, the Copenhagen Summit, and the Paris Agreement, examining principles of climate justice and equity. Finally, the challenges surrounding climate change were highlighted, particularly the unequal ways in which it impacts various communities. The discussion underscored the importance of achieving climate equity, ensuring that all individuals—regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, nationality, ability, or income—have access to safe, healthy, and equitable living conditions. The lecture concluded with insights on the steps forward in addressing these global issues.

Expert talk on the topic AI and Governance
Date: 20 February 2025
The Department of Political Science conducted an insightful expert talk on the topic "AI and Governance". The session was led by Mr. K.C. Shankar, a distinguished speaker and edupreneur. With his vast experience in education and technology, Mr. Shankar provided a comprehensive overview of the potential impacts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the realm of governance.

The expert talk delved into the various ways AI can be both beneficial and dangerous if not properly managed. Mr. Shankar highlighted several risks associated with the use of AI in governance, including concerns about data privacy, algorithmic biases, and the potential for misuse in surveillance. He stressed the importance of establishing ethical guidelines and regulations to ensure that AI systems are developed and applied responsibly, especially in sensitive areas such as law enforcement and decision-making processes. On the positive side, Mr. Shankar shared numerous examples of how AI tools can facilitate good governance. From improving transparency in government processes to enhancing public services, He emphasized that AI could be a transformative tool for improving governance in both developed and developing nations, provided its implementation is done with care and consideration for societal impact. Throughout the talk, Mr. Shankar encouraged participants to think critically about the balance between innovation and regulation, urging them to embrace AI’s potential for social good while acknowledging the ethical responsibilities that come with it. The session concluded with an engaging Q & A, where attendees had the opportunity to discuss the practical challenges and opportunities AI presents in governance.

“Vidwat Sangosthi- Series 3” on “What Can Administrators Learn from Our Maharajas?
Date: 11 January 2025
The Department of Political Science, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), Karnataka Regional Branch, organized “Vidwat Sangosthi- Series 3,” a special lecture held on January 11, 2025, at the IAS Officers Association building in Bengaluru. The insightful talk on the theme “What Can Administrators Learn from Our Maharajas? Lessions from Raja Sir Thanjore Madhava Rao” was delivered by Prof. Rahul Sagar, Global Network Professor of Political Science, Abu Dhabi. The session was chaired by Shri T. M. Vijay Bhaskar, IAS (Retd.) Former Chief secretary of Karnataka, Shri S. Ramanathan, IAS (Retd.), Chairman-Emeritus of IIPA-KRB, and Shri K. Jayaraj, IAS (Retd.). Prof. Sagar’s insightful talk explored the advanced statecraft and administrative techniques employed by Indian Maharajas, who contributed significantly to building prosperous economies and effective governance systems in their states.

Prof. Sagar's presentation also compared British colonial administration with the governance practices in Princely States ruled by Maharajas. He highlighted how British administration was influenced by the sophisticated knowledge of statecraft possessed by these Maharajas. The lecture emphasized that contemporary administrators can draw valuable lessons from the Maharajas’ approach to governance, incorporating the art and science of statecraft into modern administration. The talk provided students with a deep understanding of India’s rich and glorious past, offering them insights into the historical foundations of governance and administration, and how these can be applied in the present era.

Guest Lecture on Tirugu Takali Tirugu Desiya Chinthane
ಸಂಪನ್ಮೂಲ ವ್ಯಕ್ತಿಗಳಾದ ಡಾ. ಶಿವಾನಂದ ಟವಳಿ ಅವರನ್ನು ಕನ್ನಡ ವಿಭಾಗದ ಸಂಯೋಜಕರಾದ ಡಾ. ಸರ್ವೇಶ್ ಬಿ.ಎಸ್. ಅವರು ಸ್ವಾಗತಿಸುತ್ತಿರುವುದು ಗ್ರಾಮೋಧ್ಯಮಗಳ ಕುರಿತು ತಿಳಿಸುವ ‘ತಿರುಗು ತಕಲಿ ತಿರುಗು’ ಕವಿತೆಯನ್ನು ಕುರಿತು ಹೊಸ ಚಿಂತನೆಗಳನ್ನು ಚರ್ಚಿಸಿದರು. ಜಾಗತೀಕರಣದ ಪರಿಣಾಮವಾಗಿ ಇಂದಿನ ಎಲ್ಲಾ ಮಾಯೆಗಳು ನಮ್ಮ ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಯನ್ನು ನಾಶಮಾಡುತ್ತಿರುವ ಕುರಿತು ಅರಿವು ಮೂಡಿಸಿದರು. ಸತ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ಸುಳ್ಳುಗಳನ್ನು ಕಾಣುವ ಬಗೆ ಹಾಗೂ ಸುಳ್ಳಿನ ವಿರುದ್ಧ ತಿರುಗಬೇಕಾದ ಸತ್ಯದ ಚರಕದ ಜ್ಞಾನ ನಮ್ಮೆಲ್ಲರದಾಗಬೇಕು ಎಂಬ ಎಚ್ಚರವನ್ನು ಕುರಿತು ಉಪನ್ಯಾಸ ನೀಡಿದರು.

Talking about the villages, he discussed new ideas about the poem. As a result of globalization, all the magic of today became aware of the destruction of our culture. He lectured on the way we see the truth and lies and the knowledge of the truth that must be turned against lies.

ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ಸಿನಿಮಾ ಕುರಿತು ಮೌಂಟ್ ಕಾರ್ಮೆಲ್ ಕಾಲೇಜಿನ ಕನ್ನಡ ವಿಭಾಗದ ಮುಖ್ಯಸ್ಥರಾದ ಡಾ. ರವೀಶ್ ಹೆಚ್.ವಿ ಅವರು ಉಪನ್ಯಾಸ ನೀಡಿದರು. ವಿದ್ಯಾರ್ಥಿಗಳಿಗೆ ಕನ್ನಡ ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯ ಸಿನಿಮಾ ಕ್ಷೇತ್ರವನ್ನು ಸೃಷ್ಟಿಮಾಡಿದ ಬಗೆಗಳನ್ನು ಅದರ ಪ್ರವೇಶಿಕೆಯನ್ನು ತಿಳಿಸಿದರು. ಕನ್ನಡ ಸಿನಿಮಾ ಜಗತ್ತು ಪ್ರಾರಂಭಗೊಂಡ ಬಗೆ, ವಿಶ್ವ ರಂಗಭೂಮಿಯು ಪ್ರಭಾವಿಸಿದ ಚಿಂತನೆಗಳು, ಕನ್ನಡದ ಮೂಕಿ ಮತ್ತು ವಾಕ್ಚಿತ್ರಗಳ ಚಿಂತನೆಗಳನ್ನು ಚರ್ಚಿಸಿದರು. ಸಾಹಿತ್ಯವು ಸಿನಿಮಾ ಆಗಿ ರೂಪುಗೊಳ್ಳುವಾಗ ನಿರ್ದೇಶಕನ ಪಾತ್ರ ಹಾಗೂ ನಿರ್ಮಾಪಕರ ಆಶಯಗಳನ್ನು ವಿವರಿಸಿದರು.

On literature and cinema, the head of the Kannada department of Mount Carmel College Dr. Ravish HV gave a lecture. He told the students about the ways in which the field of Kannada literature and cinema was created and its introduction. He discussed how the world of Kannada cinema started, thoughts influenced by world theatre, thoughts on Kannada silent and talkies. He explained the role of the director and the wishes of the producer when the literature becomes a movie.