Monday, 14 April 2025

Reimagining Narratives with AI

Reimagining Narratives with AI: Exploring Digital Storytelling through Electronic Literature

The Task: A Creative Call to Reimagine AI Narratives

In a thought-provoking initiative designed to blend creative writing with digital literacy, postgraduate students of English Literature were invited to participate in an Activity Task: Reimagining Narratives with AI in Digital Humanities, curated by Prof. (Dr.) Dilip Barad.

The objective of this activity was to encourage students to challenge conventional dystopian depictions of Artificial Intelligence and instead, reimagine narratives where AI becomes a constructive, empathetic, and creative ally in human life.

Exploring the Task in Detail

The activity asked students to:

View short films like Ghost Machine, The iMom, and Anukul that portrayed AI in cautionary tones.
Reflect on traditional narrative arcs that often show AI as antagonistic or dangerous.
Create an original narrative that envisions AI contributing positively to society—by handling routine tasks, thereby enabling humans to pursue creativity, fitness, and emotional wellness.

The detailed task brief can be accessed here:
👉 Reimagining Narratives with AI in Digital Humanities – Activity Brief (PDF)

Students had the liberty to choose from a variety of creative formats:

Hypertext / Electronic Literature
Blog-based Stories
Film Scripts
Reflective Essays

They were also encouraged to experiment with generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, ClaudeAI, and Copilot to brainstorm and refine their ideas.

Creative Submissions by Students

A. Hypertext / Electronic Literature Submissions

These narratives, created using interactive platforms such as Borogove and Google Sites, mark a leap into electronic literature, a genre where storytelling meets technology.

🦾 Aakash Chavda – Cyborg's Tale
Read here
🛕 Dhatri Parmar – Dholavira: Untouched Mysteries
Read here
🧠 Hardi Vhora – Raavan's Abduction and the Robotic Guardian
Read here
🔱 Jatin Varu – The Robot Sage: Aakriti and the New Era
Read here
⚔️ Khushi Rathod – Ravana Vadh: A Futuristic Battle between Algorithms and Dharma
Read here
🤖 Pallavi Parmar – Heart Meets Machine: A Modern Family’s Story
Read here
🛡️ Riya Bhatt – The Silent Guardian: Prior's Redemption
Read here
🕰️ Yashraj Sodha – The Memory Keeper: A Glimpse into 2065
Read here

B. Blog Submissions

These narrative blog posts imagined AI as a beacon of hope and assistance.

💡 Akshay Nimbark – The Beacon of Hope: Jyoti’s Story
Read here
🧸 Jayshree Khachar – Red and the AI Guardian
Read here

C. Script Writing Submissions

These submissions envisioned futuristic scenarios in the form of screenplay narratives.

🌅 Bhumi Gohil – AI and The New Dawn
Read here
🌿 Hiral Vaitha – Harmony
Read here

D. Reflective Essays

These critical essays assessed the contrast between traditional AI depictions and the reimagined positive ones.

🎶 Rahul Desai – Symphony of Souls: A New Narrative in AI and Human Coexistence
Read here
🧭 Trupti Nayak – Reflective Essay: Reimagining AI Narratives
Read here

Conclusion: A Successful Exploration of Electronic Literature

The successful completion of this task not only showcased students’ storytelling talent but also marked a significant pedagogical shift—from conventional literary analysis to digital and interactive narrative creation. Through hypertexts, blogs, scripts, and essays, students didn’t just tell stories—they built new worlds where AI and humans coexist harmoniously.

This activity also exposed students to electronic literature—a genre that merges literary creativity with digital interactivity—laying the foundation for future explorations in Digital Humanities.

Such creative engagements reaffirm the role of literature in shaping future narratives, one where human imagination, aided by AI, crafts stories of hope, empathy, and evolution.

Thursday, 10 April 2025

Memorabilia 2025

From the Desk of the Head

Prof. Jagdip Sonawane releasing Memorabilia 2024-25

Click here to view the Memorabilia 2025

As we reflect upon the academic year 2024-25, it fills me with immense pride and satisfaction to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of our students at the Postgraduate Department of English. This year has been truly exceptional, marking unprecedented success in national and state-level competitive examinations, along with commendable accomplishments in sports, arts, and cultural activities.

One of the most noteworthy highlights of this year has been the outstanding performance of our students in the UGC-NTA NET and Gujarat SET examinations. More than a dozen students have qualified for GSET, demonstrating their academic rigor and commitment to excellence. In a historic first for our department, four students cleared the GSET while still pursuing their M.A. studies, setting an inspiring precedent for future aspirants. Moreover, two of our students, Dhatri Parmar and Aakash Chavda, successfully cleared the NET examination, with Aakash achieving the prestigious Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), a feat never before accomplished in our department's history. Their success serves as a testament to their dedication and the unwavering support provided by our faculty.

Beyond academics, our department has witnessed a resurgence of enthusiasm in various co-curricular and extracurricular domains. The sports committee was uniquely active this year, with our students excelling in intercollegiate competitions. A few of them, Srushti Chaudhari and Dhatri Parmar, even secured places in the university team, representing our institution at national-level inter-university tournaments in sports such as cricket and squash. This participation underscores the well-rounded development that our department aims to foster among its students.

The Art and Creativity Committee organized several unique events that allowed students to express themselves beyond conventional academic pursuits. The Library Committee, with its Annual Reading Day and guided visits to various libraries and bookshops in Bhavnagar, successfully promoted the culture of reading and intellectual curiosity. The Gardening Committee meticulously planned and executed their activities on designated days, reinforcing the importance of sustainable environmental practices. Additionally, the Celebration Committee curated a series of events, including a well-organized study tour, enriching the overall learning experience of our students. The Film Committee also organized to watch the ‘Emergency’ film in the theatre. All other departmental committees also worked diligently to ensure that the English Department remained a vibrant hub of curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular engagements.

Another remarkable achievement was our students' participation in Youth Festival and Excel Expression events, where they not only showcased their talents but also secured awards and recognition. These victories reinforce the importance of holistic education—an education that extends beyond textbooks and classrooms, preparing students for real-world challenges.

In the times we live in, it has become imperative that our students, the future leaders of society, are groomed into individuals who possess not just knowledge but also the ability to perform exceptionally in any role or task assigned to them. It is often observed that students of the arts are deeply engaged in theoretical discussions and excel in 'preaching,' but when faced with the challenge of 'practice' or 'performance,' they struggle to deliver. At the Department of English, we have consciously strived to bridge this gap. By involving our students in various activities, we aim to instill in them the ability to think critically, act decisively, and adapt seamlessly to dynamic environments. Whether it is through research, literary discussions, community outreach, or competitive platforms, we encourage our students to develop practical skills that complement their academic knowledge.

Education, in its truest sense, is not merely about accumulating degrees; it is about shaping individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society. Our students, through their relentless pursuit of excellence, have demonstrated that they are ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead. As we bid farewell to the graduating batch, we extend our heartfelt best wishes for their future endeavors. We are confident that they are well-equipped to carve out a significant space for themselves in the world, irrespective of the career paths they choose. May they continue to inspire, innovate, and make a difference in every sphere they enter.

With best wishes,

Prof. Dilip Barad

Head, Department of EnglishMaharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University

Wednesday, 15 January 2025

CAWACH Cyber AWarenes And Creative Handholding

CAWACH: Cyber Awareness and Creative Handholding

In an increasingly digital world, where opportunities and risks coexist, the importance of cyber awareness and mental well-being cannot be overstated. The CAWACH initiative, led by the Government of Gujarat, aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to navigate the digital realm safely. Here’s a comprehensive look at CAWACH’s themes, objectives, and actionable insights.

About CAWACH Kendra

The Cybersecurity Awareness And Creative Handholding (CAWACH) Kendra is an initiative by the Government of Gujarat under the Education Department in collaboration with the Home Department. It aims to:

Raise cyber hygiene awareness among college students.
Educate about cybercrime and cybersecurity.
Secure systems at the end-user level to prevent cyber-attacks.

Objectives

Heightened Cyber Awareness: Foster a culture of cybersecurity among individuals.
Master Training Program: Implement comprehensive training for educators and students.
Engaging e-Content: Develop interactive content to promote online safety.
CYBER YUVA Platforms: Leverage social media to empower and educate a wider audience.

Theme 1: Foundations of Digital and Online Safety & Well-Being

1. Introduction to the Internet, Cyber Ethics, and Cyber Safety

Understand the basics of responsible online behavior, ethical practices, and the fundamentals of staying safe on the internet.

2. Cyber Hygiene & Online Threats

Good cyber hygiene is your first line of defense. Learn to recognize phishing, malware, and other threats that can compromise your safety.

3. Cyber Security Tools and Resources

Discover tools like antivirus software, VPNs, and firewalls to protect your personal and professional data.

4. Cyber Laws in India

Stay informed about India’s legal framework to tackle cybercrimes. Knowledge of laws can empower victims and deter perpetrators.

5. Prevention of Online Harassment & Cyberbullying

Foster a safe online environment by learning how to identify, prevent, and respond to harassment and bullying in the digital space.

6. Fighting Misinformation

In a world rife with fake news, the S.U.C.S. Framework helps combat misinformation:

S: Source – Verify the source of information.
U: Ubiquity – Check if credible platforms corroborate the information.
C: Context – Ensure the information isn’t misleading or taken out of context.
S: Second Opinion – Always consult a trusted source before sharing.

Theme 2: Mental Health and Digital Empowerment

1. Safe Social Media Practices

Social media can enrich our lives, but it can also harm our mental health. Adopt practices to maintain a positive online presence while protecting your well-being.

2. Online Gaming, Digital Wellbeing & Mental Health

Online gaming can be fun, but it also poses risks. Stay safe with these tips:

Be Cautious with Messages – Avoid sharing login details without verification.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication – Strengthen your account security.
Check URLs Closely – Verify links before clicking.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords – Avoid reusing passwords across platforms.
Keep Software Updated – Stay ahead of vulnerabilities with regular updates.
Stay Informed – Learn and share knowledge about online threats.

3. Digital Empowerment: Internet for Good

The internet can be a force for positive change. From learning opportunities to social impact initiatives, discover how to harness its potential for good.

Responsibilities of a Digital Citizen

Being a responsible digital citizen means creating a safe and inclusive online community. Here’s how you can contribute:

Respect Others: Honor others’ opinions and privacy.
Verify Before Sharing: Ensure the accuracy of the information you spread.
Take Responsibility: Be accountable for your actions in the digital space.
Combat Misinformation: Use tools like the S.U.C.S. Framework to stop the spread of fake news.

Final Thoughts: Your Role in a Safer Digital World

The CAWACH Kendra initiative is more than a program—it’s a movement toward a safer and more empowering digital ecosystem. By understanding the foundations of cyber safety and promoting mental well-being, we can transform the online world into a space of opportunity and security for all.

Let’s work together to create a digitally aware, responsible, and empowered community. Join hands with CAWACH Kendra to make a difference!

Tuesday, 14 January 2025

Comparative Literature and Translation Studies

Exploring Comparative Literature and Translation Studies: A Gateway to Multicultural Understanding

The disciplines of Comparative Literature and Translation Studies offer a profound lens through which we can examine the interconnectedness of cultures, languages, and literary traditions. As global boundaries blur, these fields become essential in fostering cross-cultural dialogue, understanding, and appreciation. This blog serves as a comprehensive guide to nine significant articles that delve into various dimensions of these disciplines, providing insights into their theoretical frameworks, practical applications, and broader implications in contemporary academia.

Each article explored here is a cornerstone in its respective area, addressing themes like the evolution of Comparative Literature, the role of translation in bridging linguistic divides, and the challenges of cultural transference. Through these summaries, readers will encounter thought-provoking questions and answers that not only illuminate the core ideas of each piece but also invite further reflection on their relevance in today's interconnected world.
Whether you are a student, a researcher, or an enthusiast of literature and language studies, this blog aims to provide a clear and concise understanding of key concepts in Comparative Literature and Translation Studies. By the end of this exploration, you will have a richer appreciation of how these disciplines contribute to the broader discourse on culture, identity, and communication.

Want to read all these nine articles? Click here

Click here to appear in online test to check your understanding

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