Abhivyakti Event

Abhivyakti : 30th September, 2026

The HDFC Library, Ashoka University, successfully organized the fifteenth book discussion in the Ashoka History Book Discussion Series on 30 September 2026. The discussion focused on The Coveted Mount: The Horse in South Asian History, co-edited by Dr. Pratyay Nath and Ranabir Chakravarti and published by Cambridge University Press in 2026. Dr. Pratyay Nath was in conversation with Professor Mahesh Rangarajan, Ashoka University. The discussion explored the historical, cultural, political, and social significance of the horse in South Asian history. The event provided an engaging platform for intellectual exchange and encouraged participants to reflect on new perspectives in historical research.

Abhivyakti : 17th September, 2026

HDFC Library, Ashoka University, organised a special book talk titled “Liberal Education in the 21st Century” on 17 September 2026. The session featured Prof. Saikat Majumdar, Professor of English and Creative Writing and Head of the Department of English at Ashoka University, in conversation with Prof. Rishikesha T. Krishnan, Vice Chancellor of Ashoka University. The discussion explored the possibilities and challenges of liberal arts and science education in India. It examined the relationship between qualitative and quantitative learning, theory and experience, and breadth and depth of knowledge. The speakers also discussed the intellectual, economic, ethical, and political dimensions of liberal education in the context of rapidly evolving knowledge technologies. The session highlighted the relevance of liberal education in shaping critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning in the 21st century. 

Abhivyakti : 9th September, 2026

The HDFC Library, in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Studies, organized a special book talk, “Wild in the City: A Talk on Wild Capital,” on 9 September 2026 at Ashoka University.

The session featured author and conservationist Neha Sinha in conversation with Mahesh Rangarajan and Sumana Roy, and was chaired by Amita Baviskar.

The discussion explored nature and wildlife in Delhi-NCR, ecological memory, urban belonging, and the relationship between people and the natural environment.

The speakers highlighted how observing and engaging with urban nature can reshape our understanding of cities and strengthen our sense of belonging.

The event provided an engaging platform for participants to reflect on conservation, ecology, and the importance of reconnecting with the natural world. 

Abhivyakti : 1st September, 2026

The HDFC Library successfully organized a special talk on “Authority in Circulation: Imdadullah's Intellectual Networks between Mecca and North India” on 1 September 2026 at Ashoka University. Dr. Moin Nizami discussed the intellectual and spiritual networks of the 19th-century Sufi Haji Imdadullah and explored the connections between Mecca and North India, highlighting the role of migration, correspondence, print, and travel in shaping trans-Asian networks of scholarship. The session featured a conversation with Prof. Seema Alavi, FBA, and was chaired by Prof. Mahesh Rangarajan. The event provided valuable insights into South Asian Islamic intellectual history, Sufi traditions, and Muslim responses to modernization.

Abhivyakti : 25th Feb, 2026

The HDFC Library, in collaboration with the Archives of Contemporary India, successfully conducted : Abhivyakti: A Book Discussion Forum featuring an engaging discussion on The Forgotten Indian Prisoners of World War II by Gautam Hazarika. Held on February 25, 2026, at Ashoka University, the session was led by Prof. Varun Sahni, Professor of International Relations. The discussion highlighted the lesser-known histories of Indian soldiers captured during World War II, exploring themes of courage, captivity, and the complex legacy of the Indian National Army. The event brought together participants for a thoughtful exchange on history, memory, and the human dimensions of war.