In a major step toward fostering critical thought and global academic engagement, the Office of the Dean International Affairs at the Central University of Kashmir (CUK) organized its first offline international workshop titled "Dialogic Consciousness in Western Philosophy" on Thursday. The intellectually stimulating event centered on the ideas of Russian philosopher and literary theorist Mikhail Bakhtin and drew participation from students, scholars, and faculty members.
The workshop began with a welcome address by the convener, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, who presented the concept note. She highlighted the roots of dialogic consciousness in literary discourse and connected Bakhtin's ideas like polyphony and the carnivalesque to both Western thought and ancient Indian traditions. “Dialogic interaction,” she noted, “begins in the classroom when students explore texts that reflect diverse voices and viewpoints.”
CUK Vice-Chancellor Prof. A. Ravinder Nath, the chief guest, emphasized the relevance of dialogic thinking in a fragmented world. He noted that imagination, often nurtured in the humanities, is foundational to innovation and peace. “Dialogic thinking,” he said, “helps build global citizenship and understanding in our divided times.”
Renowned resource person Prof. Lakshmi Bandlamudi, Professor of Psychology at City University New York, delivered the keynote address. She powerfully conveyed Bakhtin’s philosophy of dialogue as a dynamic, transformative event that occurs between people—not just through words. Using vivid examples, she traced the evolution of Bakhtinian thought during the philosopher’s life under Soviet repression and drew links between his concepts and modern global challenges.
Prof. Bandlamudi also explored the concept of the Carnivalization of Consciousness, showing how festive elements like humor, grotesque imagery, and collective celebration challenge social hierarchies and foster truth-telling. She emphasized that laughter, in Bakhtin’s view, is a force of social renewal and inner honesty.
The sessions, chaired by Prof. Tiwari, concluded with interactive discussions. In her closing remarks, she thanked the administration, the speaker, and participants for making the event a success. Research scholars Ms. Debalina Das and Ms. Suhana conducted the proceedings.
The workshop marked a significant academic milestone for the university and reflected its commitment to promoting intellectual depth, critical dialogue, and global exchange.