Fifth Prof. N.K. Jain Memorial Lecture

The Department of English Literature & Language organized the Fifth Prof. N.K. Jain Memorial lecture (virtual) on 26^th October 2023, on the topic “Place-based Literary Studies: Gender, Domesticity and Female Agency”. The eminent speaker for the same was Dr. Gaurav Desai, Professor and Chair of Department of English Language & Literature in University of Michigan, USA.

The session started with a sincere welcome by Prof. Rimika Singhvi, Head, Department of English Literature & Language to the distinguished speaker, delegates, and friends and family of Late Prof. Jain. Further, Dr. Desai began the lecture by giving valuable insights into the complexities of gender, domesticity, and female agency in the context of 17^th and 18^th century Zanzibar. His presentation focused on “Tales of Zanzibar,” delving into the book Memoirs of an Arabian Princess from Zanzibar by Emilie Ruete. He guided the audience through the life of Sayeda Salme, also known as Emilie, highlighting her experiences in a harem, her interactions with European colonial powers, and her transformation, including her conversion to Christianity.

Dr. Gaurav Desai concluded the lecture by providing a profound understanding of the intersections between gender, domesticity, and female agency in historical Zanzibar. His insightful exploration of Sayeda Salme’s life and experiences captivated the audience, offering a unique perspective on 19^th-century Arab and African society. The insightful lecture turned out to be more inclusive with the question answer round. The session came to a close with Prof. Rimika Singhvi’s warm remembrance of Prof. N.K. Jain and a cordial vote of thanks to the esteemed speaker.