International Conference on “Narrative Nuances: Text and Audio-Visuals"
I had the wonderful opportunity to be a part of the International Conference on “Narrative Nuances: Text and Audio-Visuals,” organised by the Rajasthan Association for English Studies (RASE) and the Department of English, Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from 23rd to 25th October 2026.
The conference was an enriching learning experience that offered an excellent opportunity to meet distinguished scholars, engage with experts, exchange ideas, and participate in intellectually stimulating conversations. To borrow the expression used by Prof. Vic Gaffney, it was an opportunity to share some “intellectual juices” through meaningful academic interactions. One of the most thought-provoking reflections came from Prof. G. N. Devy, who emphasised the power of words to transcend class boundaries and reach the wider world.
The conference aimed to explore and disseminate the diverse dimensions of narrative nuances across textual and audio-visual forms. I was privileged to learn from the insightful sessions delivered by eminent speakers, including Prof. G. N. Devy, Dr. Hemendra Chandaliya, Prof. Vic Gaffney, Dr. Evgenia Zharikova, Dr. Rajul Bhargava, Prof. Pavan Kumar Shukla, Prof. Nandini Sahu, Prof. Ashutosh Mohan, Prof. Biswajoy Chatterjee, Prof. Sanjeev Kaushal, Dr. Vijay Mangukia, Dr. Viral Pandey, Prof. Paritosh, Prof. Deep Shrivastava, Prof. Dev Vrat Sharma, Prof. S. C. Hajela, Dr. Narendra Kumar, Prof. Birendra Pandey, and Prof. Rajkumar Verma.
The sessions covered a fascinating range of perspectives, from creativity and storytelling to critical approaches to understanding narratives. Equally valuable were the conversations and informal discussions that followed the sessions, where scholars shared their ideas, experiences, and perspectives. These interactions made the conference even more meaningful.
A particularly memorable moment was presenting my research paper, co-authored in collaboration with my research supervisor, Prof. (Dr.) Dilip P. Barad, titled “Mapping Space and Movement: A Digital Cartographic Study of Ecology, Migration, and Memory in The Hungry Tide.” The session was chaired by Dr. Aarti Jain. Presenting our research was one of the most fulfilling aspects of the conference, as it provided an opportunity to articulate the work we have been pursuing and engage with an intellectually curious audience. The session was highly interactive, and I particularly appreciated the chairperson's curiosity and thoughtful engagement with our research. Being able to respond to questions, explain our methodological approaches, and share our research perspectives made the experience even more rewarding.
Beyond the academic sessions, the conference beautifully celebrated the cultural richness of Rajasthan. Every evening, after the academic proceedings, cultural programmes featuring traditional Rajasthani dances and performances added a vibrant dimension to the event.
The second day featured a special “Meet the Author” session with Prof. Sanjeev Kaushal, Prof. Vic Gaffney, and Dr. Evgenia Zharikova. They shared their writing journeys, creative processes, and perspectives on writing, offering valuable insights into the relationship between experience, imagination, and literary expression.
The final day's cultural programme was another memorable experience. Students showcased their talents through dance, singing, instrumental performances, and original creative pieces. The stage was also open to the audience, providing an opportunity for everyone to participate and express themselves.
I gladly seized this opportunity to express my gratitude and recite a beautiful poem by Dhruv Bhatt, “Ochintu Koi Mane Raste Male” (ઓચિંતુ કોઈ મને રસ્તે મળે). Along with reciting the poem, I shared some of its deeper nuances and reflections with the audience. It was a special moment to connect literature, poetry, and personal expression beyond the boundaries of academic presentations.
Another beautiful aspect of this conference was that my sister accompanied me. It was her first opportunity to experience such an academic gathering, listen to eminent scholars, and witness the exchange of ideas. More importantly, she also got a platform to express herself, and she enthusiastically participated by singing a song. Watching her experience this learning environment and find the confidence to participate made the occasion even more special for me.
Another interesting attraction of the conference was the book fair, which added a literary charm to the entire experience. One of the most engaging initiatives was the concept of a “Blind Date with a Book” — an innovative way of encouraging readers to discover books without knowing their titles or authors beforehand. It was a delightful idea that brought an element of curiosity and surprise to the reading experience. The conference also featured craft demonstrations, offering participants an opportunity to appreciate creativity, artistic skills, and hands-on learning. These initiatives added another dimension to the conference, beautifully bringing together literature, creativity, and cultural expression.
As Dr. Vivek Pahadiya rightly said, “Every story needs someone to carry it forward…” I think I am taking this thought quite literally. I am carrying these stories, conversations, intellectual exchanges, questions, perspectives, and all those beautiful dialogues with me. Every interaction has left something behind, and I hope to carry these experiences forward in my academic and personal journey. Perhaps, that is what makes a conference more than just an academic gathering — it becomes a collection of stories that we continue to tell.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Rajasthan Association for English Studies (RASE) and the Department of English, Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur, for organising such a wonderful academic and cultural gathering. My sincere appreciation to the organising committee, coordinators, volunteers, distinguished speakers, session chairs, and fellow participants for creating such a stimulating and welcoming space for learning, dialogue, and intellectual exchange.
Finally, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my research supervisor, Prof. (Dr.) Dilip P. Barad, for his constant guidance, encouragement, and invaluable academic support.
I return with more than just academic insights. I carry with me meaningful conversations, new perspectives, memorable encounters, cultural experiences, and, above all, renewed enthusiasm for research and learning.
Some conferences offer knowledge; some offer connections; and some leave you with experiences that continue to inspire you long after they end. This conference was certainly one of them!
Taking these stories and dialogues forward! ❤️
