The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla, is organizing a Two-Day National Conference on “Living the Partition: Portrayal of Partition in Films in India” on March 17–18, 2025. This prestigious event brings together eminent scholars, historians, and film experts to analyze the cinematic representation of Partition and its lasting impact on Indian society.
Inaugural Session Highlights
The conference commenced with the Lighting of the Lamp, setting the stage for an insightful discussion on Partition’s portrayal in films.
Professor Nirmal Kumar, Convener of the conference and faculty at Sri Venkateswara College, University of Delhi, introduced the theme, emphasizing how Partition narratives continue to shape historical memory and socio-political discourse.
The keynote address was delivered by Chief Guest Professor Rakesh Sinha, Former Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and a distinguished scholar. He highlighted the enduring legacy of Partition in Indian cinema, stating that films like Gadar and Pinjar have played a crucial role in preserving the trauma of Partition across generations.
“Partition was not just a historical event but a psychological and cultural rupture whose effects are still felt today. Films serve as a bridge between history and popular consciousness,” remarked Professor Sinha.
The session concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Mehar Chand Negi, Secretary, IIAS Shimla, followed by the National Anthem.
Exploring Partition Through Cinema
The conference focuses on themes such as:
✅ Displacement and Migration in Partition films
✅ Cinematic Representation of Communal Tensions
✅ Evolution of India-Pakistan Relations in Films
✅ Impact of Films on Collective Memory and National Identity
The Theme Note highlights that even decades later, Partition remains a living memory through cinema. Films like Gadar, Pinjar, and the recent Gadar 2 showcase how Partition continues to shape public consciousness and cultural narratives.
Distinguished Speakers & Academic Discussions
The event features keynote addresses, panel discussions, and paper presentations by leading scholars, including:
🎙 Professor Virender Singh Negi
🎙 Professor Manoj Sinha
🎙 Professor Ayub Khan
🎙 Dr. Etee Bahadur
🎙 Dr. Richa Sharma
🎙 Dr. Sheela Reddy
With offline and online participation, the conference fosters a rich intellectual discourse on history, cinema, and national identity.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Partition Studies
IIAS Shimla remains at the forefront of academic discussions on history, culture, and media. The conference will conclude on March 18, 2025, with deliberations on Partition narratives in literature and cinema, followed by a Valedictory Session.
📍 Stay tuned for more updates on this significant national conference!
