Talk on Diversity on Canvas

Type of Activity: Academic Talk (Organised by Department of Sociology and Department of Bengali, The Bhawanipur Education Society College)
Date/Duration of Activity (from–to): June 13, 2025 (One-day event)
Time: 3:00 P.M. onwards
Details of Resource Person: Prof. Prasanta Ray, Professor Emeritus, Presidency University, Kolkata
No. of Participants: 32

Objective of the event:
To foster a dialogue on unity in diversity, emphasising how art reflects and strengthens social cohesion by honouring different cultural identities and traditions.

Brief description of the event:
The Department of Sociology and the Department of Bengali at The Bhawanipur Education Society College, with approval by the IQAC, successfully hosted a talk by Prof. Prasanta Ray on “Diversities on Canvas.” Prof. Ray’s insightful presentation challenged the policy debate framing unity and diversity as opposing forces. Drawing from a rich array of paintings — from Mughal portraiture to fold-up pat-chitra — Prof. Ray demonstrated how artists have used their creative expression to celebrate and unite different cultural perspectives. His discussion revealed that historical negotiations with diversity produce new forms of unity, reflecting a rich blend of traditions, materials, and methods. The event was well-received by all participants, fostering a greater understanding of unity in diversity through art.

Outcome of the event:
The talk successfully encouraged reflection and dialogue among the participants, emphasising the role of art in fostering unity while honouring cultural distinctions. It contributed to a growing awareness of how historical and artistic practices can facilitate constructive navigation of contemporary social diversity.