The Politics of Movement: A Critical Lens on European Union’s Migrant Policy
Date: 08 November 2024
The Department of Sociology organized the first of the Global Perspective Series, titled "The Politics of Movement: A Critical Lens on European Union’s Migrant Policy. The resource person, Mr. Samuel Berger, from the Department of International Relations and Social Science at the University of Erfurt, delivered an insightful talk, on the EU’s approach to migration. Mr. Berger explored the complexities of EU migration, from Schengen's free movement agreement to the recent 2024 Pact on Migration and Asylum, which aims to unify asylum procedures across member states. Highlighting examples from Germany, Italy, and Poland, he illustrated the EU's varied, often restrictive responses to migration pressures. Theoretical insights from Power Elite, Marxian, and Post-Colonial perspectives underscored how elite narratives shape public discourse and reinforce hierarchies, while migration simultaneously fulfills labor needs and sustains economic interests. The session concluded with a call to critically assess EU policies and consider more humane approaches, sparking meaningful reflections among attendees.

The Cost of Growth: Understanding Ecological Disasters in the Pursuit of Development
Date: 07 October 2024
The Department of Sociology organized the third session of the "Musings & Reflections" expert lecture series, titled "The Cost of Growth: Understanding Ecological Disasters in the Pursuit of Development." Dr. Maya M, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology, Christ University, Bengaluru, was the invited resource person. She began the talk by referencing the Global Risks Report 2022 from the World Economic Forum, which highlighted environmental issues as four of the top global risks over the next decade. She critically discussed post-development narratives from international to local levels, focusing on Kerala's 2018 floods and the 2024 Wayanad landslide as examples of how unrestrained development can lead to ecological disasters. Dr. Maya concluded the session with a video showcasing the disruptive effects of human actions on the environment, urging the audience to embrace sustainable development practices. The lecture was well-received and prompted reflections on the need for responsible growth.

Documentary Screening and Panel Discussion on “India Untouched”
Date: 17 September 2024
The Department of Sociology at Kristu Jayanti College organised a documentary screening and panel discussion on 17 September 2024 at the A3 Auditorium, Admin Block. The event featured the screening of India Untouched: Stories of a People Apart, a documentary that delves into the harsh realities of caste discrimination in India. The discussion panel comprised students from BA PSSO and HPS, including Liya Susan Zacharia, Ribin Thomas, Aqsa Mariam Sharief, Samyuktha Shylie E S, and Monesh B. The panelists engaged in a thoughtful dialogue, offering critical reflections on the documentary’s themes, focusing on the entrenched caste-based inequalities that continue to impact Indian society. Their insights provided the attendees with a deeper understanding of the social and political dynamics surrounding caste discrimination, sparking meaningful discourse on the need for equity and inclusivity in contemporary India. The event successfully fostered a space for academic exchange and reflection, with active participation from the student audience.

Identity and Media Representation
Date: 11 September 2024
The Department of Sociology organized an expert talk on “Identity and Media Representation”. The talk was delivered by Abhishek B S, an Assistant Professor, Department of Media Studies, Kristu Jayanti College Autonomous, Bengaluru. The programme commenced at 1.40 pm with the screening of a few clippings of the documentary Unfair. Throughout the expert talk, the students were introduced to different perspectives. Abhishek brought the perspective of identity and media through breaking the work ‘representation’ as ‘re-presentation’. Media as a script, how can we read it from our limited understanding. The session helped students to develop different perspectives with deconstruction and reconstruction of their perspectives.

Ensuring Workplace Safety: The Posh Act
Date: 23 August 2024
The Department of Sociology organized a programme titled "Ensuring Workplace Safety: The POSH Act" on 23 August 2024, from 1:40 PM to 3:40 PM at the A3 Auditorium, Admin Block. The session was led by Mr. Dinu Veyil, a research scholar and social activist, who provided an insightful overview of the history of workplace harassment faced by women, referencing the landmark Bharwari Devi incident and the Vishakha Committee guidelines. He traced the evolution of the POSH Act, explaining its provisions, legal procedures, and the institutional norms that have been established to ensure workplace safety. Mr. Veyil engaged the students through interactive quizzes, reinforcing their understanding of the various aspects of sexual harassment and the key points discussed during the lecture. The programme was highly interactive and kept the students engaged, making it both informative and interesting.

Workshop on Seeing Sociologically
Date: 22 August 2024
The Department of Sociology organized a hands-on training workshop titled "Seeing Sociologically" on 22 August 2024. The workshop was conducted by Mr. Dinu Veyil, a research scholar and social activist, who is also the founder of the NGO Dhisha. The programme commenced at 9:30 AM with an engaging ice-breaking session, setting a participatory tone for the day. Throughout the workshop, students were introduced to various layers of social stratification and identities, including discussions on the notion of marginalization and the subtle forms of discrimination that are prevalent in everyday life. Over the course of four hours, Mr. Dinu Veyil facilitated several group activities, allowing students to learn and reflect on topics such as gender, caste, and linguistic diversity in an interactive and enjoyable manner. The hands-on approach not only made the session lively but also helped students internalize complex sociological concepts through practical exercises. The workshop was successful in fostering a deeper understanding of sociological issues and encouraging students to view social phenomena through a critical lens.

Value-Added Course on "Critical Reading and Writing"
Date: 01 to 27 July 2024
The Department of Sociology successfully conducted a Value-Added Course (VAC) titled "Critical Reading and Writing" for the students of third semester BA JOPS and PSSO. The course spanned six days with intensive training aimed at enhancing students' critical reading and writing skills, essential for academic excellence and professional development. During the VAC, students were introduced to the importance of critical reading and writing in both academic and professional contexts. They learned to identify main arguments and supporting evidence, distinguish between facts, opinions, and biases, and understand the author's purpose. Techniques for effective reading were taught, including annotating texts, summarizing, and paraphrasing, along with evaluating sources for credibility and reliability. The writing process was covered comprehensively, from planning and drafting to revising and editing, with a focus on crafting clear thesis statements and structuring academic essays. Advanced sessions included analyzing complex texts, identifying logical fallacies, and practicing advanced writing techniques, culminating in the application of these skills to critically analyze media texts and prepare research proposals.

Sociology Magazine Release & Expert Lecture on “Diversity: A Re-Reading”
Date: 17 April 2024
The Department of Sociology successfully hosted the Annual Magazine Release “Unlocking Minds”, followed by an Expert Talk on this year’s theme "Diversity in Society: Unveiling Perspectives" on April 17, 2024, at 1:40 PM. The highlight of the event was the release of the third edition of the department's magazine, "Unlocking Minds," under the theme "Diversity in Society: Unveiling Perspectives." Fr. Jais V Thomas, Financial Administrator, Director of Jayantian Extension Services, and Faculty Member of Commerce and Management, graced the occasion by releasing the magazine and delivering an insightful talk on the significance of diversity in society. He emphasized how embracing differences fosters solidarity and underscored the vital role of social sciences in understanding and addressing societal complexities.

Following the magazine release, Mr. Jithin Joseph, Assistant Professor at the Department of English, Kristu Jayanti College, Bengaluru, delivered an expert lecture on "Diversity: A Re-Reading." Mr. Joseph explained the theoretical aspects of diversity, particularly highlighting its deceptive nature as a metaphor. He elucidated how diversity and differences, while inherently neutral, can become imbued with power dynamics, resulting in structural, categorical, and hierarchical impositions. Through his discourse, students gained clarity on the political dimensions of diversity in contemporary society, realizing its importance as a critical concept for navigating societal challenges and fostering inclusivity. The event provided a platform for scholarly engagement and deepened the understanding of diversity's multifaceted implications in today's world.

Expert Talk on “Embodied Rhythms: Exploring Dance as a Sacred Ritual”
Date: 01 March 2024
The Department of Sociology organised a Lecture Series on Musings & Reflections with the topic “Embodied Rhythms: Exploring Dance as a Sacred Ritual”. The resource person for the event was Dr. Divya Nedungadi, Assistant Professor, Department of Performing Arts, Gitam University, Bengaluru. The expert talk offered an exploration into Indian classical dance forms, especially the Mohiniyattam. Through engaging performances and demonstrations, Dr. Nedungadi dived into the complex intersections of caste, gender, and power dynamics inherent in these traditions. The session shed light on how race, religion, and caste operate within classical art forms, drawing attention to recent instances of discrimination, such as temple venue denials based on dancers' identities. Dr. Nedungadi underscored the importance of democracy and secularism in reimagining these dance forms as inclusive expressions, emphasizing the need for a more equitable and accessible cultural landscape.The session ended with a lively Q&A session, which allowed the audience to engage with the resource person directly.

Expert Lecture On Theyyam
Date: 02 February 2024
On February 2, 2024, the Department of Sociology orchestrated a captivating expert lecture, "Exploring Theyyam: Rituals, Beliefs, & Social Significance," featuring Dr. Sivaprasad V, an esteemed Assistant Professor from the Department of Professional Management Studies at Kristu Jayanti College, Bengaluru. Drawing upon his 15 years of active participation in Theyyam performances, Dr. Sivaprasad provided a unique and firsthand perspective on this traditional art form. His comprehensive discussion covered the essence of Theyyam, delving into its historical legacy, associated beliefs and rituals, social significance, and illuminating the nuanced comparisons between Theyyam and Bhoothakkola. The lecture, followed by an interactive session, captivated students' curiosity and enthusiasm, extending well beyond an hour. Dr. Sivaprasad's expertise offered students valuable insights into the cultural, historical, and social dimensions of Theyyam, fostering a deeper understanding of this rich and complex tradition.

Documentary Screening Of India Untouched : Stories Of A People Apart ”
Date: 22 September 2023
The Department of Sociology organized a documentary screening event featuring the groundbreaking film, "India Untouched - Stories of a People Apart." This documentary offers a profound exploration of the practice of Untouchability in India, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by those considered "Untouchables." The event aimed to raise awareness and initiate critical discussions on this sensitive issue.

The event commenced with the screening of "India Untouched." The documentary took viewers on a journey across various states, offering a comprehensive exploration of Untouchability in India. It presented the experiences of individuals from different religious backgrounds, revealing the deeply entrenched discrimination they face in society. The film used personal narratives, interviews, and expert analysis to highlight the continued prevalence of Untouchability.

Following the documentary screening, a critical discussion was held to delve deeper into the issue of Untouchability and the content of the documentary. The discussion was led by the students from the I, III and V semester BA PSSO. Attendees had the opportunity to share their thoughts, ask questions, and engage in a meaningful dialogue about this pressing societal concern.

Expert Lecture on “Doing Research Iin Prison : Experiences of a Woman Ethnographer”
The Department of Sociology organised a Lecture Series on Musings & Reflections with the topic “Doing Research in Prison : Experiences of a Woman Ethnographer”.The resource person for the event was Dr. Sheethal S. Kumar, Assistant Professor & Head, Department of Sociology, Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady, Kerala. It was a thought-provoking and insightful event that shed light on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by herself as a female ethnographer conducting research within prison settings in Kerala. This program aimed to explore the experiences, perspectives, and research methodologies of women ethnographers who engage in research within correctional facilities. He discussed her journey of PhD research, the specific qualitative research tools like ethnography, hanging out with participants, participant observation etc. She explained how she has undergone a personal transformation after the completion of her fieldwork in a prison setting. She also shared some unique challenges faced by female ethnographers in prison settings, including gender-related issues, safety concerns, and the emotional toll of witnessing and documenting the hardships faced by incarcerated women. She also shared stories and examples of how their research had influenced policy, raised awareness about issues within the prison system, and contributed to a better understanding of the experiences of incarcerated women. The session ended with a lively Q&A session, which allowed the audience to engage with the resource person directly, asking questions and seeking advice on conducting research in prison settings. The session ended with Question and Answer session.

Value Added Course on Gender and Society
Department of Sociology conducted Value Added Course for third-semester EPS, JEENG, JPSENG students on “Gender and Society” for 2021-2022 academic year. Thirty hour classes were conducted from 9th August 2021- 19th August 2021 on various topics, including Domestic violence, Gender sensitization, Male gaze, Women and Human Rights, Queer Theory and Glass ceiling. Classes were organized through the zoom platform, and on August 19th, 2021, the VAC exam was conducted for all three batches through a MCQ test. Students created a short movie to raise gender awareness and promote the course's relevance in today's environment.

Creative Space
Date and time: 15/8/2020, 10 am to 17/8/2020, 10 am
Online platform: Zoom
Opened to all BA Students
Objective: 1. To enhance the creativity of students.
2. To showcase the writing skills of students.
The Department of Sociology organized the event Creative Space a creative writing competition for all BA students. It was organized on the occasion of Independence Day. The event was conducted using Google forms. The form was circulated on social media platforms and was made available to all BA students of Kristu Jayanti College. The students were free to write a short story/ poem/essay on the topic " Freedom ". The rules and regulations to be followed while writing was also given to them. Students came up with some really creative works that showcased their writing skills through this event