Cultural Studies - Understanding Power dynamics , Media Studies and Truly Educated Person

Welcome readers ! This blog is written in response to the thinking activity given by Dr.Dilip Barad sir - Department of English, MKBU. The topic of my blog is about Power dynamics and Media in the Cultural Studies. Apart from that, I will also delve into the Profound Insights gleaned from Noam Chomsky's video on what it means to be truly educated. This blog is inspired by Dr. Dilip Barad sir. First, Let's begin by understanding the meaning and essence of cultural studies. 

  Click here  to know more about Cultural Studies and about this task. 

 Cultural Studies 

 

 

    - What is Cultural Studies ? 

   Cultural Studies is an interdisciplinary field, drawing on theories and practices from a range of humanities and social sciences disciplines, that seeks to investigate the ways in which cultures produce and are produced. At the centre of Cultural Studies sits a host of questions, such as what constitutes a text, how some texts, visual images, and cultural artifacts come to be valued over others, and how questions of value relate to the distribution of power and authority.  Cultural Studies takes as its focus the whole Complex of Changing ideas, beliefs, Feelings , Values and Symbols that define a Community's Organization and sense of itself. When we Study Culture, we are Studying the world we live in and how we function in it. 

  Cultural Studies emerged in Britain in the late 1950s and Subsequently Spread internationally, notably to the United States and Australia. It Originally Identified with the centre for Contemporary Cultural Studies at the University of Birmingham ( founded in 1964 ) and with such Scholars as ; 

   ● Richard Hoggart

 ● Stuart Hall

● Raymond Williams 

  Cultural Studies later became a well -  established field in many academic Institutions, and it has since had broad influence in Other Fields like - Sociology , anthropology, literary Criticism and Philosophy. Among its Central Concerns are the Place of race or ethnicity , class and gender in the Production of Cultural Knowledge. 

1. Understanding of Power in Cultural Studies  :- 

  In Cultural Studies , the Concept of Power Occupies a central and multifaceted role. Power is not merely a force of domination but a Complex interplay of idealogies , institutions and Social structure that shape and define Cultural Phenomena. It Operates through discourses that frame how we Perceives and interact with the world , Constructing hierarchies of Identity , class , gender and race. Cultural Studies Scholars investigate how power is exercised through representation , media and language revealing the ways in which dominant groups maintain Control and marginalize Others. 

Power is something we are often uncomfortable taking about. That is true in Civc life , how we live together in Commumity. It Played a vital role in Cultural Studies. Nobody is free from the dynamics of Power. Dynamics keeps on Changing evertime and that is why ; 

        " Power of one Centre, becomes Periphary in another Centre. " 

  In Democracy, it should be with People. It is important to know about where Power comes from , How it is exercised and what one can do to become more Powerful in Public life. In basic Definition : - 

         "Power is the ability to make Others do what you would have them do." 

  This Plays in all arenas of life from family to the Workplace and to our relationships. There are six main Sources of civic Power. 

  1. Physical Force

  2. Wealth 

  3. State action ( Government)

  4. Social norms 

  5. Ideas 

  6. Numbers (Quantity)

  Cultural Studies is interested in the Process by which Power relations between and Within groups of human beings Organize Cultural artefacts , Such as Food habits , music , Cinema , Sports events and their meanings.  There are three laws of Power worth examining. 

 1. Power is Never Static.

 2. Power is like Water.

 3. Power Compounds. 

 It is a useful to think in terms of literacy. It is important to learn that , How to read Power and Write Power. To read Power means to Pay attention to as many texts of Power as one can, it is not about books only. Seeing Society as a set of texts. Check / Map out that who has what kind of Power, arrayed in what Systems. For that to study Stratergies is important. To write Power requires first that believe in Our own self that as a human being we have to right to Write. To be an author of change in Society and do. As we all know that ; 

    " Any kind of Writing always helps in expressing our own self." 

  Speak up in a Voice that is authentic. Organize the ideas first and than Organize other People. But still one question is remaining is that ' Why Of Power'. Cultural Studies Scholars delve into the dynamics of Power to Understand how it is resisted and negotiated within Societies. Cultural Studies seeks to reveal hidden inequalities, Challenge dominant narratives and empower marginalized Voices. But , Remember one thing that ; 

   ' Power + Character = Great Citizen "    we have the Power to be one. 

   The Second goal of Cultural studies that it is Politically engaged. Cultural critics see themselves as oppositional , not only within their own disciplines but to many of the Power Structures of society at large. The Second goal of Cultural studies is about recognizing that Culture is not Seperate from Politics but intricately Connected to it. 

Michel Foucault , French Philosopher , French Philosopher and Historian. He gave the idea about Power and Knowledge. He argued that Knowledge and Power are intimately bound up. So much so, he coined the term Power / Knowledge to point out that one is not seperate from the another one. He challeneges the idea of Power and Says that ; 

                                    " Power is everywhere". 

 Michel Foucault is one of the few writers on Power who recognize that Power is not just a negative or repressive thing that forces us to do something against our wishes, but can also be a necessary, Productive and positive force in our Society. A key point about Faucault's approach to Power is that it transcends Political and Sees Power as an everyday, Socialised and embodied Phenomenon. 

   2. Why Media Studies is so important in our Digital Culture ? 

 Answer :-    Media Studies is important in the Context of Digital Culture because it equips individuals with the analytical tools. Media Studies fosters Critical thinking , enabling individuals to discern between credible Information and misinformation.  Ultimately , Media Studies Played a vital role and informed Citizenship in the Digital age. Media is a broad field which talks about History as well as Contemporary times.

 " Media Studies is a discipline and field of study that deals with the Content, history and effects of Various media ; in Particular , the Mass Media." 

 Media Studies and Cultural Studies are Connected with each other. Advertising , Marketing and Critique are all features associated with Media.  The role of the media is to provide accurate and truthful information to people. However, in contemporary times, this is often not the case. We tend to unquestioningly accept what is presented to us and share it without verifying its accuracy. The media exerts significant influence over the masses.

  When we talk about Manufacturing of Consent the question arises that whose Consent is being manufactured?  Noam Chomsky explained in the video that elite media are the sort of agenda - setting media , that means the ' New York Times' ,  ' The washington Post' , and major television Channels. They determine, they select, they shape , they Control , they restrict in order to serve the interests of the dominant elite groups in Society. From these Point we can understand that Media is holding a Power. It is important to know that who is in the Power and Who Owns a Media?  If we watch various news channels and then compare them, we may discover that some channels attempt to conceal the actual news, and it appears that those in power also influence news outlets. 

 

 - Five Filters of Media given by Noam Chomsky. They are ; 

 1. Media Ownership

 2. Advertising

 3. Media Elite 

 4. Flack

 5. The Common Enemy 

Click here to read in detail about these Five Filters

 We watched a video as part of our classroom studies in which we gained insights into the relationship between journalism and power. One female journalist was supporting those in power, while another male journalist consistently questioned and aimed to uncover the truth.

 3. Who can be Considered as a ' Truly Educated Person '?

 Education is not the mere acquisition of Knowledge and Skills. Instead , it is about thinking creatively and Critically as well. 

 In Noam Chomsky's video about what makes a truly educated person, he emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and independent inquiry. He argues that being truly educated is not just about memorizing facts and information but rather about developing the ability to question, analyze, and challenge existing knowledge and ideas. Chomsky believes that a truly educated person is curious, open-minded, and willing to explore different perspectives, making them better equipped to navigate a world and contribute meaningfully to the Society. 

 

  The Core Principle and requirement of a fulfilled human being is the ability to inquire and create constructively and independantly without external Controls. Futher In the Video he explained that ;  

                                    "It is not important what we Cover in the Class but it is important to be seen that what we discover in the Class."

A True education opens a door to human intellectual freedom and creative autonomy. To be truly educated means to be resourceful , to be able to formulate serious questions. It  means to Find One's own way through education. I want to end my blog with Putting Some Quotations which is directly connected with what it means to be a truly educated Person.

  ● " With the help of education People become lifelong learner." 

 ● Through Syllabus, what we discover in the Class - that is very Important."

● " The real understanding begins when we have unanswerable questions."

 ● " Education is about being life long learner." 

  

 □ Here , I end my blog. I hope that it will be helpful to you. 

 

     [ Word Count :- 1,618 ] 

     [ Images :- 11 ] 

     [ Videos :- 04 ] 

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Poem - ' Lakshman' by Toru Dutt

 Lakshman Poem by Toru Dutt

Thinking Activity :-

 Welcome readers! This blog is written in response to the task given by Megha Ma'am -  Department of English, MKBU. This blog is a part of our thinking activity. In this blog, I will discuss some questions related to the Poem "Laxman" written by Toru Dutt. First, Let us discuss about the Poet. 

 □ Toru Dutt :- 

  Toru Dutt (In Bengali :-  তরু দত্ত;  1856 – 1877) was an Indian Bengali translator and poet from British India, who wrote in English and French languages. She is among the founding figures of Indo - Anglian literature. She is known for her volumes of poetry in English, Sita, A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields (1876) and Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan (1882), and for a novel in French, Le Journal de Mademoiselle d'Arvers (1879). Her poems explore themes of loneliness, longing, patriotism and nostalgia. 

  

  Toru Dutt was the Youngest of three children, following Sister Aru and brother Abju. She and he siblings spent the majority of their Youth in Calcutta.  Toru Dutt was an innate linguist. In her brief life, she learned the languages - Bengali , English , French and Subsequently Sanskrit. She left behind a Substantial body of Poetry and literature.  The Only work that was published during Toru’s lifetime was a Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields (1876). This was a Collection of English translations of French poetry that Toru had begun with her elder sister, and was Published by the Saptahik Sambad Press in Calcutta without any preface or introduction. Toru had read Edmund Gosse’s appreciative review of the book in The Examiner of August 1876, but did not live to see the second expanded edition her father Published in 1878 along with a memoir of her, or the illustrious third edition of nearly 200 Poems.

 Toru Dutt also left her only English Novel, Bianaca , Or the Young Spanish Maiden, Unfinished. Bianca was later Published Serially in The Bengal Magazine from January to April 1878. Toru Dutt's french novel , Le Journal de Mademoiselle d'Arvers , was Posthumously Published in France in 1879 with an Introduction by Clarisse Bader. Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan , Comprising Toru’s Original Poems , Poetic transcreations and adaptations from Sanskrit literature and Bengali tales was Published Posthumously by Messrs Kegan Paul in London in 1882 with an Introductory memoir by Edmund Gosse on Toru Dutt's life and works. 

 Toru Dutt died of tuberculosis , at the age of 21 on 30th August , 1877 in Kolkata. 

     □ Major Works :- 

Some of her Major Works include ; 

 1. " A Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields" (1876)

 2.  " Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan  (1882)

3. " Le Journal de Mademoiselle d'Arvers" (1879)

4. " Our Casuarian Tree " 

5.  " Lotus " 

6.  " Lakshman " 

7.  " My Vocation " 

 8. " The Broken Bell " 

 Toru Dutt's writing reflects her multicultural background and her ability to write in multiple languages. Her Works making her a notable Figure in 19th Century Literature. 

   □ Writing Style :- 

    As a master of Verse Toru always rises to the Occasion.  Besides , her management of the Versification is adorit enough - the 4 - lines ballad Stanza , the 8 - line octosyllabic Stanza, blank verse , Toru is reasonably at home in them all. She has shown the remarkable mastery of the Sonnet Form. There are nearly Forty Sonnets in the Sheaf Gleaned in French Fields and two in Ancient Ballads. Toru Dutt is known for her elegant and lyrical Writing Style.

   Her Works often Combine elements of both western and Indian literary traditions, reflecting her multicultural upbringing and influences. She is Particularly Celebrated for her use of Vivid Imagery, metaphors and allusions to Hindu mythology and Culture. Toru Dutt's Poetry Often explores the theme of nature , Love , Spirituality and the Clash of Cultures.

  Her Writing is Characterized by its rich language, evocative descriptions and a sense of nostalgia for her native India, even as she was Influenced by European Romanticism and Victorian literature. 

 

  

  □ Laxman Poem :-

  

  The Poem Laxman is from Toru Dutt's 'Ancient Ballads and Legends of Hindustan ' (1882). It tells a story from the Hindu Epic Ramayana in which the hero Rama is told to Procure a golden deer for his Wife Sita. After Rama Leaves Sita with his brother , Laxman for Safekeeping , he finds out that the deer is actually a demon and kills it. However, when the demon dies , it calls out for help using Rama's Own Voice. Though Lakshman knows Rama is invincible and does not Worry , Sita Panics at the sound of the Cry for help and asks Laxman to go and investigate.  Laxman draws a line in the ground that Sita is not to cross while he leaves to search for Rama. While he is absent , however Sita crosses the line and is abducted by the demon king Ravena. 

 The Poem takes this Story from the Ramayana and Opens up the discussion between Sita and Laxman , expanding it beyond what is Present in the epic. Still, much of the Core elements of their dialogue are Preserved from the Epic. The Poem begins with the anxiety of Sita ; 

   " Hark !  Lakshman Hark, again that Cry ! 

 It  is, - It is  my husband's Voice ! 

Oh hasten , to  his Succor Fly, 

No more hast thou, dear friend a Choice . "  (Stanza 1).  

 This kind of Words from Sita expresses her heightened anxiety as a woman who is scared that her husband is in danger.  This Stanza sets the tone of the Poem. The identity of the woman being very frail and Fragile is thus created not only in the mythology but also in this Poem. In Other words Toru Dutt has reconstructed the Same Sita appearing in the mythology and Focused on her Speech. 

 Future in the Poem , Lakshman logically tries to assure the safety of Ram to Sita by Saying that ; 

    "Oh Calm thyself , Videhan queen, 

    No cause is there for any fear ,

Hast thou his Prowess never seen?" (Stanza 4)

  And a little later in the Poem , Lakshman gives the examples of Ram's emphatic and Strong presence. 

                    "The lion and the grisly bear

Cower when they see his royal look,

Sun-staring eagles of the air

His glance of anger cannot brook,

Pythons and cobras at his tread

To their most secret coverts glide,

Bowed to the dust each serpent head

Erect before in hooded pride."  (Stanza 5).

  Through this Stanza we can understand that Laxman's Convincing segment to Sita is full of strong and Ferocious animals like lion, bear, Pythons and Cobras. He does a Comparison which established based on Ram's Potential to fight back. Such images came in our mind like Strength and Fearless attitude of Lord Rama. But all this assurance gets objected with the Sentiments of Wife. When Sita does not get Convinced by Lakshman about the safety of her husband. She fails to send Lakshman out for Rama her anxiety changes to doubt which gets expressed through the allegations on Laxman. 

   

   " "He perishes — well, let him die!

His wife henceforth shall be mine own!

Can that thought deep imbedded lie

Within thy heart's most secret zone! 

(Stanza 11)

  

   Sita Imagines herself to be an Object which can be Possessed by Lakshman. In Toru Dutt's Poem Lakshman Sita accuses Lakshman for his delay in going out to Save Lord Rama. Sita's mind Changes and She accuses Lakshman by telling that he wanted to marry his brother's wife. 

 Sita's character in the Poem Lakshman may not be Strictly in keeping with her portrayal in the Ramayana but it is in accordance with human nature , and shows the Working of a Woman's mind. In this Poem she does not appear as an idealized queen , but as a woman who behaves as a woman in her Condition Ought to be.  She acts impulsively and easily falls in the trap laid down for her by Ravena , the tricky and mighty king of Lanka. The Charges and allegations Sita levels against Lakshman are humiliating and degrading. Nevertheless, Lakshman stands noble and Sublime. Lakshman's character shines all the more brightly in the face of Sita's accusations against him.  Perhaps, this is what has made Toru Dutt to title the Poem  " Lakshman" than titling " Sita" though she Plays the role of a Protagonist in the Poem.

 Question 1 :- Write a Critical note on Lakshman Poem by Toru Dutt. 

 

 Answer :-   ' Lakshman' by Toru Dutt is a poem on a Hindu mythological theme. The subject matter of the poem is taken from the ‘Ramayana’, a Sanskrit epic by Valmiki. Lakshman was a younger brother of Sri Ramchandra. Once Ramchandra with his beloved wife, Sita, had to go to exile after his father’s will. With Ram and Sita, Lakshman also went to exile. Sita was chaste, pious and very beautiful. Ravana, the king of Lanka, had heard of Sita’s qualities and hence he desired to carry her off. While Ram, Sita and Lakshman were in exile, Ravana took the avail of it and by his magic power, he created a golden deer. To please Sita, her husband Ram pursued the deer leaving Sita and Lakshman in the bower. Then at distance, Sita heard a voice as same as that of Ram seeking help. Really the voice was not of Ram but of Ravana. Ravana made a plan to drive Lakshman away of the bower so that he can carry Sita off. Sita, hearing the calling of Ravana to be Ram’s, asked Lakshman to go to help Ram. First Lakshman did not want to leave the bower leaving Sita alone. But Sita persistently persuaded Lakshman to leave the bower in order to rescue Ram. The poet Toru Dutt has given a very poetic as well as a dramatic description of Sita’s persuasion to Lakshman. The poem bears the stamp of how much devotion and love Sita had for her husband.

Hearing the voice like that of Ram, Sita says to Lakshman and calls him to go to succour Ram without making any delay. She thinks that perhaps her husband is surrounded by foes, so Lakshman should go there quickly with his sword and bow. But Lakshman seemed not to heed Sita’s order. Then Sita, being angry, wanted to go alone. Seeing Sita’s agitation and anxiety, Lakshman says to Sita that there is no cause to fear because Ram is strong and brave enough to fight an enemy. He then gives a poetic account of Ram’s prowess and says that the lion and bear shrink back in fear when they see his royal look. The anger of Ram none can endure, Even sun-staring eagles drop-down at Ram’s look. Pythons and cobras, at Ram’s tread, glide to their secret holes.

Lakshman anticipated the wailing cry for help is not of Ram but of an enemy uttered to delude them. So Sita should not beseech Lakshman to go out in search of Ram leaving Sita alone. Instead, he made Sita remind her that he had been commanded by Ram to remain with Sita as a guard as there might have some giant foes in the forest to harm her. But Lakshman's persuasion could not calm Sita of her anxiety. Instead, she argued and says that ;

      Search well and see! One brother takes

His kingdom— one would take his wife

A fair partitional— but it makes

Me shudder and abhor my life.”

  At last , Sita’s allegations towards Lakshman he tracing a magic circle in front of the door, and Ordering her not to cross the Circle, goes to help Lord Rama. After Lakshman 's departure Ravena came to the bower and Carried off Sita to Lanka. 

The poem shows Sita’s devotion and love to her husband; but Sita herself is responsible for being carried away by Ravana, the king of Lanka. Besides this Lakshman's wisdom is also presented in the the Poem and We can also see that how Sita Puts blame and allegations towards Lakshman but still he stands as Nobel and Loyal. He knows that he has a mission in life - that of serving his brother.

● Conclusion :- To Conclude , Toru Dutt's Poem Lakshman tells the tragic tale of Lakshman , Lord Rama's loyal brother. Through Vivid Imagery and emotional depth , Dutt explores themes of duty, sacrifice and Complexities of familial love. This Poem is a long narrative one, Consisting total twenty - two Stanzas.

[ Total Words :- 2,029 ]

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Three Talks by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

 Sunday Reading Task 

Three Talks by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 

  Hello, readers! This blog is a response to the Sunday Reading Task assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir , Department of English, MKBU. For this Particular task, sir instructed us to watch three short talks by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. After viewing these talks, we are required to outline the learning outcomes. In this blog, I will reflect on my understanding of these three talks. Before delving into the talks, let's begin with an introduction to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

  Click here to know more about this task.  

  Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie born on 15th September, 1977 is a Nigerian writer whose works include Novel , short stories and Non - Fiction.  She was described in the Times Literary Supplement as " the most Prominent " of a "Procession of Critically acclaimed Young authors " of Nigerian Fiction who are attracting a wider audience, Particularly in her second home , the United states. Adichie has written several novels, among which "Purple Hibiscus" (2003) ,  "Half of a Yellow sun" (2006) , Americanah (2013) ,  Short - stories, the book length essays 'We should all be Feminists'  (2014) and Dear ljeawele , or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen suggestions (2017) , and a Memoir, 'Notes on Grief' (2021).

    Now , Let us discuss about the three talks one by one :- 

 □ Talk 1 :- ' The Dangers of a Single Story' :- 

   In this talk, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie discussed the importance of recognizing and challenging the stereotypes and narrow Perspectives that can arise from hearing only one narrative about a group of people or a Particular place. She shared her personal anecdotes and experiences to illustrate how the limited narratives we encounter can lead to misunderstandings, Prejudice and oversimplified views of others. She reflects on her younger self and talked about her Personal experiences. She was an early reader, and also an early writer. 

   "She wrote exactly the kinds of stories she was reading. " 

  Things changed when she discovered African books. Because of the writers like - Chinua Achebe and Camara Laye, she went through a Mental shift in her perception of literature.

   "She started to write about things she recognized." 

  She shared that African writers saved her from having a single story of what books are. She came from a conventional , middle class Nigerian family. Her father was a Professor and mother was an administrator. As per the norm they had live in domestic help, who would often come from nearby rural villages. When Adichie turned Eight, they got a new houseboy named - Fide. Adichie's mother talked about him and his Family's poverty. She shared in her talk that whenever she didn't finish her Food, Her mother states that ; 

   "Finish Your Food! Don't you know? People like Fide's family have nothing."

 So, she felt enormous pity for Fide's family. One Saturday, she visited to Fide's village and his mother showed a beautifully Patterned basket made of dyed raffia that his brother had made. Adichie illustrates that ; 

  "Their Poverty was her single story of them."

  It limits our way of looking and understanding. But, there is always something that we need to look upon. Another experience of her, when she left Nigeria and to go to University in the United states. When she was 19, Her American roommate was shocked and Surprised upon hearing her speak English so well. That is how her roommate had a single story of Africa. She stated that; 

   "She would see Africans in the same way that , she as a child had seen Fide's family."

 

 Adichie finds that the single story of Africa ultimately comes  from western literature. A few years ago she visited Mexico from the U.S. There were debates going about Immigration.  Suddenly she realised that she has been so immersed in the media coverage of Mexicans. She had bought into the single story of Mexicans. It is impossible to talk about the single story without talking about Power. The Concept of nkali from Igbo word. 

 "It is a noun that loosely translates to "be greater than another."

  Power is the ability not just to tell the story of an another Person but to make it definitive story of that Person. The Palestinian Poet Mourid Barghouti writes ; "If you want to dispossess a People , the Simplest way to do it is to tell their story and to start with Secondly."

  Further In her talk about The Dangers of a Single Story , she states that ; 

     " The Single Story Creates Stereotypes ,and the Problem with Stereotypes is not that they are Untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story." 

She even shared her Personal Journey and experiences also. According to her, Stories can break the dignity of a People, but stories can also repair the broken dignity. She Concluded her talk with this thought ; 

  "When we rejected the single story, when we realize that there is never a single story about any Place , we regain a kind of Paradise."

   □ Learning Outcome :- 

1. Adichie's talk helps us understand that relying on a single story or Stereotype about a group of people can be misleading and unfair. 

 2. Adichie Promotes critical thinking by urging us to question the narratives we encounter and not accept them Blindly. 

3.  This talk by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie teaches us to avoid making hasty Judgemens or Prejudiced Opinions about others based on limited Information. 

 4.  Adichie's talk reminds us of our responsibility as individuals to be mindful of the stories we tell and Consume. 

   □ Talk 2 :- 'We should all be Feminists :-'

  

  Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's "We Should All Be Feminists" is an essay that advocates for gender equality. In it, she highlights the importance of recognizing and challenging the societal norms and stereotypes that perpetuate gender discrimination. Adichie argues that feminism is not just a movement for women but a necessary and beneficial perspective for all of society. Her eloquent and thought-provoking talk encourages individuals to actively support gender equality and question the biases that hold us back from achieving it. In this talk she remembered her childhood friend Okuloma and Okuloma was that Person with whom she Could argue with, laugh with and truly talk to. He was also the first Person to call Adichie a Feminist. In one of the argument between both of them Okuloma looked at her and said that ; 

  "You know, You are a Feminist."

  At that time Adichie did not know exactly the meaning of the word Feminist meant and she did not want Okuloma to know that she did not know. So, she looked up for the word Feminist in the dictionary. Further, she talked that Some Years later she wrote a novel , about a man who among the other things beats his wife and whose story ends doesn't very well. While Adichie was Promoting her novel in Nigeria , a Journalist wanted to advance her and his advise was ; "Feminists are women who are unhappy because they cannot find husbands."

  So, she decided to call herself 'A happy Feminist'.

  Gender matters everywhere in the world. A World of happier men and happier women who are true to themselves. We must raise our Sons and daughters differently. It is the belief that only man can hold a Power. Even In today's time we can see gender based discrimination. She questioned that ; 

   "Why do we teach girls to aspire marriage and we don't teach boys the same?"

  We are all social beings and we internalize ideas from our Socialization. The Problem with gender is that,   " It Prescribes how we should be rather than recognizing how we are. "

If we take cooking as an example, we know that women in general are more likely to do the household work than men,But the question arises that why is that So? It shows gender discrimination. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie illustrates that ; 

  "People's attitude and mindsets are very important that what we believe and what we value about gender."

  Cooking is a very useful skills for boys to have. So, From the beggining Parents should teach the same for their son and daughter. She also defends the term Feminist. In Closing , she Concludes the talk by saying that ; 

  "Yes, there is a Problem with gender as it is today we must Fix it, we must do better. All of us, women and men,must do better. 

□ Learning Outcome :- 

1. Feminism means equality. It is about treating men and women the same, giving them the same chance and respect.

 2. Do not believe in Stereotypes. It is nothing like that men and Women have to act in Certain ways because of their gender. 

3. Have Conversations about gender equality and Feminism to make the world a better Place for everyone. 

 4. Finally, we should all work to make the world fair for everyone , regardless to their gender. 

 □ Talk 3 :- Harvard University - Importance of Truth in Post Truth era :- 

  In the Year 2018 , Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie was invited as a guest Speaker at Harvard University. where she delivered a Speech about the power of living in truth. She Spoke about the value of truth. She first began the talk with the Interpretation of her name, 'Chimamanda' which means Personal Spirit which can never be broken. Many People finds difficulty in Pronounce her name. She Shared one Personal anecdote that once she went in an event and there the anchor mispronounced her name as - Chimichanga. The Point of this story is Context matters. She stated that ; 

  "Always remember Context and never disregard intent." 

  The title of her address is between two major Points :- "Do not lie or Don't lie too often." She gave examples about her height and stuck in traffic. We did not have the Courage to embrace the truth. She Puts one question that ;

   "Should we call a lie a lie when is a lie a lie ?"

  She Spoke about the importance of truth. Telling the truth is an act of Courage. " It is hard to tell ourselves the truth about our failures, fragilities , uncertainties . It is hard to tell that we haven't done our best , which we could have. " 

  She had learned from literature that we humans are flawed , all of us are flawed. We don't need to be Perfect. We all need to be right and Just. Be Courageous enough to telling the truth always. Moreover Be Courageous enough to accept that life is messy, our life will not perfectly match our Ideology. Be Courageous enough to say that " I don't know."  She stated that ; 

           It takes Courage to admit truth which we do not know."

   She illustrates that if you feel dissatisfaction, nurture that dissatisfaction, get into the System and change the system. Everybody's story is potentially Universal. It is Just need to be told well.  Always be Truthful. 

 Click here to Visit my blog on Post - Truth

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Novel - "The Home and the World"

Welcome, readers! This blog is a response to the thinking activity presented by Megha Ma'am from the Department of English at MKBU. It is part of our Thinking activity assignment where I will delve into various significant topics related to Rabindranath Tagore's novel 'The Home and the World' and provide a critical analysis of the work.

Before we proceed further, it is important to gain a brief overview of the novel and the esteemed writer himself.

  " The Home and the World " - Novel by Rabindranath Tagore :- 

 ☆ Rabindranath Tagore :- 

  Rabindranath Tagore born on 7th May, 1861 in Calcutta ( Now Kolkata) , in India. He was Bengali Poet, short story writer , song composer, Playwright , essayist and Painter who introduced new Prose and verse forms and the use of  Colloquial language into Bengali literature, thereby freeing it from traditional models based on Classical Sanskrit. He was highly influential in introducing Indian culture to the west and  vice versa, and he is generally regarded as the outstanding creative artist of early 20th century India. In the year 1913, he became the first non - European to receive the Nobel prize for Literature. 

 Although Tagore wrote successfully in all literary genres , he was first of all a Poet. Rabindranath Tagore had  early success as a writer in his native Bangal. With his translations of some of his poems he became rapidly known in the west. In fact his fame attained a luminous height, taking him across continent on lecture tours and tours of friendship. 

        " For the World he became the voice of India's Spiritual heritage ; and for India, especially for Bengal." 

" He became a great living Institution."

    

  Tagore reshaped Bengali literature and music as well as Indian Art with Contextual Modernism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Rabindranath Tagore's Poetic songs were viewed as spiritual and mercurial ; however,  his elegant Prose and magical poetry remain largely unknown outside Bengal. He was a fellow of Royal Asiatic Society. Tagore was known by - 'Gurudeb, Kobiguru and Biswokobi.' 

  Rabindranath Tagore received his nickname 'Gurudev' out of his respect by Pupils at his very unique and Special school, which he established in shantiniketan , called 'Visva Bharati University.' Shanti Niketan was developed and founded by Tagore family. This little town was very close to Rabindranath Tagore.

 ☆ Major Works :- 

  Tagore's Major Plays are :- 

    

Raja  [The king of the Dark Chamber]	1910
Dakghar [ The Post Office]	1912
Achalayatan [ The Immovable]	1912
Muktadhara [ The Waterfall ]	1922
Raktakarabi  [ Red Oleanders]	1926
Chandalika	1938

 As earlier I also mentioned that Tagore was first of all a Poet.  Among his fifty and odd volumes of Poetry are ; 

Manasi [ The Ideal One]	1890
Sonar Tari [ The Golden Boat ]	1894
Gitanjali [ Song Offerings]	1910
Gitimalya [ Wreath of songs ]	1914
Balaka [ The Flight of Cranes ]	1916

  Rabindranath Tagore also wrote many novels, among them are ; 

  

Chokher Bali	1903
Char Adhyay	1934
Gora	1910
The Home and the World	1916
Shesher Kabita	1929 ( In 1946 it is Published in English language).

  Rabindranath Tagore is the author of several volumes of short - Stories. He often Published his works first in Bengali languages and then translated his own works into English language. The national anthems of India and Bangladesh  - 'The Jana Gana Mana' and the ' Amar shonar Bangla'    respectively are from Rabindrasangeet. 

  While Rabindranath Tagore Pursued writing, teaching and activism during much of his life, he became recognized as a Painter when he was in his sixties, with many of his works enjoying success at Exhibition in Europe.  

 Tagore died on August 7, 1941 , in Calcutta. 

  ☆ The Home and the World :- 

  The novel " The Home and the World"  Originally written in Bengali language under the title Ghare Baire (ঘরে বাইরে)    in the year 1916 by Rabindranath Tagore.   This novel depicts the battle Tagore had with himself, between the ideas of Western culture and revolution against the Western Culture. These two ideas are Portrayed in two of the main characters - Nikhilesh and Sandip. 

  Nikhilesh who is rational and opposes Violence, On the other side, Sandip who will let nothing stand in his way from reaching his goals. These two opposing ideals are very important in understanding the history of Bengal region and its Contemporary Problems. The novel was translated into English language by the author's nephew, Surendranath Tagore, With input from the author, in 1919. The Home and the World was among the Contenders in a 2014  list by The Telegraph of the 10 all - time greatest Asian novels.  Particularly Important to the novel is an understanding of the Swadeshi movement as a Part of the Indian Nationalist movement. The Swadeshi movement started in response to the 1905 Partition of Bengal by Viceory Lord Curzon, which temporarily Seperated Hindu and Muslims into different Geographical areas. 

 

   ■ Major Characters :- 

    In this novel , there are main three Major characters and the entire story is told through the viewpoints of the three main characters. The novel includes minor characters also like ; 

   ● Bimala's Sister in law :- Who is keen to mock and Criticise Bimala. 

   ● Chandranath Babu - Nikhilesh 's former tutor , a highly respected and kind old girl. 

  ● Amulya :- A Young man whose loyalties are divided between Sandip and Bimala. 

       Now let us discuss the three major Characters of the novel. They are ; 

   1. BIMALA

2. NIKHILESH

3. SANDIP

  

  Let us discuss and explore the deep study and analysis of all three major Characters. 

  1.Bimala :-   Bimala is the main character and narrator in the novel. She is the wife of Nikhilesh. Bimala in Rabindranath Tagore's novel - " The Home and the world" is Perhaps the liveliest character of the story. She is the centre of action as well as attraction of the novel. 

  There are two sides of Bimala. She is obligated to serve her husband and take of the household. Yet, She is also willing to overstep these boundaries to speak out for the people. In the beginning of the Novel , she herself admits in the course of  the novel that , she had a dark complexion and lacked Physical beauty. Yet she was fortunate enough to get married into the Zamindar's house. Bimala was married to Nikhilesh because of some good astrological signs in her and it was predicted that she would turn out to be an ideal wife. She got educated, introduced to the modern age and well acquainted with the modern standard of living. Bimala remained a devoted wife in spite of Nikhil's desperate endeavors to modernize her. She believed that her true place was at her husband's feet. She was Inspired by her own mother in wifely dedication and tried to fulfil her wifely duties in the same way as her mother has done. She makes it clear that she is destined to be a Perfect wife. She worships her husband and considers him to be his lord. Bimala explicitly tells that every morning , she took the dust of her husband's feet without waking him as ; 

        "At such moments she could feel the vermilion mark upon her forehead and shining out like the morning star." 

 As the novel Progresses, A new phase in Bimala's life has begun. She came out of her home - spun life and her wifely devotion, Partly because of Nikhil's Instigation and partly because of Sandip's charm. Moreover Sandip's impulsive and Persuasive manner , and exalted voice moved her away from her old reliance on her husband's sober , restrained idealistic stand. Nikhilesh allowed Sandip to consult Bimala on every little matter, relating to the great cause of  the Swadeshi. Sandip Actually flattered Bimala , and Conceded to her every suggestion after starting initial difference in an Opinion. In this way we can say that ; 

    " Sandip made a secret entry into Bimala's inner World."

  

  We can find Bimala's dilemmas throughout the novel. After suffering disillusionment Bimala finally returned to Nikhilesh - the centre of her life and love. In fact, she had never loved Sandip truly , Though she was fascinated by his charm, external glamour and show. But, when Sandip's cupidity get exposed and Bimala came to know the truth, Her retreat to her home and husband Nikhil becomes easy and inevitable. Bimala's inner conflict, agony and tension passed away when she returned to Nikhilesh - who stands for Bimala's true love.  

  Pradip kumar Datta who in his book -  The Home and the World - A critical Companion writes ; 

                 "Bimala in Tagore's The Home and the World emblematizes Bengali womanhood in Tagore's Contemporary Society. And at the same time , the subsequent changes in her way of living and thinking make her Psychologically,an engaging Personality." 

2.Nikhilesh :-    Nikhilesh or Nikhil is Bimala's husband and a wealthy merchant with Progressive views. For much of the novel , somewhere he feels that he is losing Bimala's respect. 

 Nikhil is Bimala's well to do husband and a merchant who owns an estate and two marketplaces in Bengal. He is educated and described as 'Modern' and Progressive in his Outlook. He sees his wife as his equal , and he would go to great pains to see her happy, even if that means her  leaving him. As the novel or story Progresses , he begins to feel as though he is not enough for his wife. As a result he grows more and more melancholy , distancing himself from her and focusing on improving himself as he anticipates her leaving.

  

   Nikhil is a humanist , and he sees dignity in all other people, even in his enemies. Such a view of him allows him to taken advantage of, such  as by his Sister and Sandip. Nikhil's humanist stance also Presents him from siding with one Particular faction ; he sees value in both traditionally  Indian and English ways of thinking. Nikhil rarely asserts himself when People take advantage of him because he often feels that he has no power or right to his own possessions and Thoughts. Nikhil was an Inspired Idealist. 

    "He lived and Worked and stood for what he Considered to be the truth of all life."

  In Nikhil, the hero of 'The Home and the world', a good deal of Tagore's Personal views and Ideology has come out. His Political philosophy, Concept of nationalism radical and advanced views about female education and liberal yet profound sense of love are all Subtly expressed in the character of Nikhilesh (Nikhil).

 3. Sandip :-   Sandip is the third major Character in Rabindranath Tagore's novel -'The Home and the world', Completing the love triangle. He is a guest in the home of nikhil and Bimala and his revolutionary ideas and speeches have a significant impact on the character of Bimala. He is very vocal in his anti - imperialistic views and is a skilled orator. 

   "Sandip represents Characteristics that are directly opposite to Nikhil."

  Sandip is impassioned and Stirs the emotions not only on Bimala , but the People of Bengal. He spreads  the notion of Swadeshi - using goods made locally and Boycotting British ones.  He was a kind of Person who trying to use Bimala and also her money. However his character is far from ideal Patriot. His motivations are selfish. He fools People with his mask of goodness , something that nikhil sees through the begginings of  Sandip's relationship with his mother.

 

     At one Point in the novel he Convinced Bimala to steal money from her house and her husband for the 'Cause.' Sandip's Presence in the novel Concludes him fleeing. While , His Speeches and ideas are resulted in Communal riots. 

 □  Critical  Analysis of  the  Novel  :- 

    'The Home and the World' is a novel that reads like allegory on the failure of the Indian Nationalist Projects, Circling around the issues of  Home verses world , tradition versus Modernity created by the active involvement of the colonisers in the Cultural, economic and administrative life of the Colonised. "The Home and the World" is a novel by Rabindranath Tagore, first published in 1916. It is a complex work that explores themes of nationalism, identity, and the role of women in Indian society during the early 20th century. Here is a critical analysis of the novel :- 

1. Nationalism and Identity : The novel is set against the backdrop of the Swadeshi movement, which was a part of the Indian struggle for independence. Through the characters of Nikhil and Sandip, Tagore presents two contrasting views of nationalism. Nikhil advocates for a more moderate and inclusive form of nationalism, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and understanding between different communities. Sandip, on the other hand, represents an aggressive and divisive form of nationalism that seeks to stoke religious and communal tensions. Tagore uses these characters to critique the extremes to which nationalism can be taken and to call for a more balanced and inclusive approach to nation-building.

2. Women's Liberation :- The character of Bimala undergoes a significant transformation throughout the novel. Initially confined to the traditional role of a wife and homemaker, she becomes involved in the nationalist movement under Sandip's influence. Her journey symbolizes the struggle of women in that era to break free from societal constraints and find their own identity. However, her ultimate disillusionment with Sandip's radicalism and her return to Nikhil's more balanced worldview suggest that Tagore does not see blind adherence to any ideology, even nationalism, as a solution to women's liberation.

3. Complex Characters :-  Tagore's characters are not one-dimensional. They grapple with conflicting emotions, desires, and loyalties. Nikhil, for instance, is a character who represents reason and tolerance, but he is not without flaws or inner conflicts. This complexity adds depth to the narrative and allows readers to relate to the characters on a human level.

4. Narrative Style :-  Tagore employs a first-person narrative, with the three main characters taking turns to tell their side of the story. This shifting perspective allows readers to see the events from multiple viewpoints, highlighting the subjectivity of truth and the complexities of human relationships.

5. Symbolism :-  The novel is rich in symbolism. The home represents tradition, stability, and the status quo, while the world signifies change, uncertainty, and the lure of the external. Bimala's journey between these two realms mirrors the larger societal and political shifts taking place in India during that time.

6. Language and Translation :-  Tagore originally wrote the novel in Bengali, and it has been translated into many languages. The nuances and poetic beauty of Tagore's writing can be challenging to fully capture in translation. The choice of language and the act of translation itself become significant themes in the novel, highlighting the complexities of communication and understanding.

In conclusion, " The Home and the World " is a thought-provoking and layered novel that delves into the intricacies of nationalism, personal identity, and the role of women in a changing society. Tagore's nuanced characters and narrative style make it a timeless work that continues to be relevant for readers interested in exploring these themes.

  ● Movie Adaptation :-  "Ghare Baire"

     Ghare Baire is a 1984 Indian Bengali - language romantic drama film directed and written by Satyajit Ray. Based on Rabindranath Tagore's novel of the same name and title. The film has a Complex Portrayal of several themes including Nationalism , women emancipation , tradition versus modernism and others. 

 

 On 20th July, Megha Ma'am Organised Movie screening of the Bengali film 'Ghare Baire' with English Subtitles. Watching a film Provides all of us with a unique Perspective in understanding the text. Experiencing the emotions of the characters through the film was truly Captivating. We all enjoyed the screening and It was truly a delightful experience. Moreover , watching together allowed us to discuss and share ideas with each other. 

  Here I am sharing the Glimpses of Screening :- 

  

 

     ● Reading Session :- 

    Reading has always been immensely helpful in gaining a better understanding of any Particular Text. As a Part of Classroom activity, Megha Ma'am Organised a reading Session for Tagore's novel - The Home and the world.' The entire novel consists of a total of 12 chapter.

   During the reading Session , we highlighted some of the Key lines and Passages from the Novel to better grasp the characters and themes Presented in it. We all thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Thanks to Megha Ma'am for Organising this insightful Session. Here I am sharing the Glimpses of Reading Session :- 

  

   - Here I end my blog. I hope that it will be helpful to you..

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