A two-day workshop titled “Print and Tradition” recently took place at the Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit in Kalady, showcasing the vital connection between historical documentation and cultural heritage. The event was inaugurated by Veena Naregal, a distinguished Professor of Sociology at the Institute of Economic Growth in New Delhi. Her opening remarks emphasized the significance of print media in preserving traditions and reflecting societal changes.
Organized collaboratively by the Kerala Council for Historical Research and the university’s Department of History, the workshop gathered scholars and academicians eager to explore the role of printed materials in shaping historical narratives. K. N. Ganesh served as the session’s presiding chair, infusing the proceedings with scholarly authority and guiding discussions on the interplay between print culture and tradition.
Keynote addresses were delivered by Susan Thomas, Head of the Department of History at Sree Sankaracharya University, and Manu V. Devadevan, an Associate Professor of History at IIT Mandi. Their insights reinforced the workshop’s central themes, highlighting how print not only documents history but also influences contemporary cultural practices. Thomas noted, “The advancement of print has transformed our understanding of tradition, creating spaces for dialogue and new interpretations.”
Academic presentations from noted scholars such as Rita Kothari, Umakanta Mishra, Dinyar Patel, Prachi Deshpande, John Thomas, Saumya Malviya, and K. M. Sheeba enriched the workshop’s dialogue. Each contributed unique perspectives on how print has historically shaped and continues to influence societal values and traditions. For instance, Kothari discussed the nuances of print language and its role in bridging cultural gaps, while Patel explored the intersections of print media and political movements in India.
Attendees engaged in lively discussions, fostering an interactive environment that allowed for the exchange of ideas and collaborative thinking. The blend of established academics and emerging scholars created a vibrant atmosphere ripe for intellectual exploration.
As the workshop drew to a close, participants expressed optimism about future collaborations that could further investigate the ties between print and cultural heritage. The sessions served to deepen attendees’ appreciation for the power of print in documenting and preserving tradition, offering insights that can guide future research in the field.
This workshop underscored the importance of continuing such dialogues in an era where digital and print media coexist, affecting how traditions are conveyed and preserved. As modern society navigates these shifts, the legacy of print remains a crucial area of scholarly focus, ensuring that cultural histories continue to be explored and valued.
Published – July 07, 2025, 08:15 am IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/workshop-on-print-and-tradition-held-in-kochi/article69780649.ece
Category : Kerala
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Publish Date: 2025-07-07 08:15:00
