CUK’s English Deptt hosts lecture on feminism
Ganderbal, Nov 3: The Department of English at the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) organised an insightful lecture on “Feminism,” delivered by Prof. Prerna Malhotra, a noted scholar and academician renowned for her work in literary studies and gender discourse.
The session was aimed at deepening students’ understanding of feminist theory, its historical evolution, and its contemporary relevance in literature and society.
In her opening remarks, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, Head of the Department of English, who chaired the session, underlined the importance of engaging students with diverse intellectual perspectives. She said it was vital to continually revisit feminist frameworks, particularly within the Indian socio-literary context, to bring in sh and nuanced viewpoints. Prof. Tiwari also expressed gratitude to Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath and the university administration for their consistent support.
Prof. Malhotra began her lecture by tracing the historical development of feminist thought, defining feminism as both a movement and an intellectual framework. She discussed the first, second, and third waves of feminism and examined how gendered binaries were socially constructed, leading to the marginalisation of women and other genders.
Highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of feminism, Prof. Malhotra discussed its impact on literature, culture, and critical theory. She emphasised the need to foreground the voices of marginalised women writers and encouraged students to engage with literature through a gender-sensitive and inclusive lens. Drawing from both Western and Indian examples, she urged students to view feminism as not only a theoretical construct but also a dynamic social movement promoting equality and empowerment.
The lecture also touched upon contemporary debates in feminism, including intersectionality, representation, and post-feminist thought. Prof. Malhotra concluded by reminding students that feminism remains central to understanding power relations in society and literature.
The session ended with an interactive discussion, where students and faculty posed questions on feminist criticism, gender dynamics in literature, and women’s evolving roles in academia and society.
Earlier, Senior Assistant Professor Sunil Kumar Mannil introduced Prof. Malhotra, highlighting her academic contributions. He also served as the event rapporteur and proposed the vote of thanks.
