Kohima College, in collaboration with the Embassy of Ireland, hosted an immersive literary workshop titled “James Joyce in Kohima: An Immersive Literary Workshop.”
KOHIMA, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): Kohima College, in collaboration with the Embassy of Ireland, hosted an immersive literary workshop titled “James Joyce in Kohima: An Immersive Literary Workshop.”
The session was facilitated by Varoon P. Anand, Artistic Director of Kaivalya Plays, New Delhi, and jointly organised by the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), the Departments of English and Functional English, and the Music and Drama Club.
During the event, Raymond Mullen, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Ireland, visited Kohima College and held a brief meeting with the Principal. He informed the Principal that the Embassy selects one Indian state each year for focused cultural collaboration. This year, the selected state is Nagaland, and Kohima College has been chosen as a key partner.
The workshop introduced students to the works of James Joyce through an interactive, movement-based approach. Anand guided participants through a series of activities including reflective writing without censorship, improvisation, creative expression, sensory engagement, generous listening, and collaborative participation.
Drawing on Joyce’s short story “Eveline,” students explored themes of memory, family expectations, emotional conflict, and decision-making. Writing prompts encouraged them to reflect on what they see, hear, and remember; what their families expect of them; and what they desire but hesitate to express. These exercises highlighted parallels between Joyce’s Dublin and the lived experiences of young people in Kohima.
Participants also engaged in group activities emphasising bravery, empathy, and shared experience. Exercises such as “Clap If You…” helped students identify common challenges—balancing family obligations, navigating identity, and negotiating tradition—reinforcing the universality of Joyce’s themes.
Faculty members observed that the immersive format provided a fresh and accessible way to understand complex literary texts. Students shared that the programme boosted their confidence, creativity, and appreciation for Joyce’s work.
The ongoing collaboration with the Embassy of Ireland marks a significant milestone for Kohima College, which continues to promote interdisciplinary learning through initiatives that integrate literature, performance, and global cultural exchange.
