In a world where conversations around gender are evolving rapidly, the Department of Sociology and Anthropology from the Easwari School of Liberal Arts at SRM University-AP hosted a two-part lecture series that sparked introspection, challenged societal norms, and helped foster inclusivity. With honest discussions, cultural references, and meaningful reflections, the sessions resonated deeply with students, encouraging them to rethink what they know about gender.The session saw Artistic Director of Conflictorium – Museum of Conflict, Chattisgarh, and Gujarat, YSK Prerana as its speaker.

The first session for the Universal Human Values and Ethics students opened the door to reimagining gender beyond traditional binaries. The discussions tackled pressing issues such as inequality, the choice of motherhood, and the issue of gender-based violence. The session wove in popular memes that students see every day to explore how gender stereotypes are subtly reinforced. The speaker took things a step further, the short film Juice. Set in a household gathering, the movie painted a raw picture of how caste, class, and gender intersect, powerfully illustrating how invisible power dynamics shape everyday interactions.

The session wasn’t about pointing fingers or placing blame. It was about understanding—about seeing the world through a different lens and recognising how ingrained norms can shape perceptions. Students left the room not just with questions but with a drive to seek answers and advocate for change.

The second session, tailored for students of the Open Elective Law and Society, turned the focus inward. It started with a simple question: When did you first become aware of your gender? What followed was an exploration of how gender is more than an identity—it’s a social construct shaped by power dynamics.

Students examined how societal categories like caste and class blend into gendered expectations and how these norms are portrayed through media. But the session didn’t just focus on challenges. It celebrated progress, stressing upon how new meanings and ways of expressing gender are emerging every day.

The sessions made students pause and think about the roles they play in their communities and the changes they can bring. By addressing deeply ingrained issues with honesty and compassion, the Department of Sociology and Anthropology created a space where students could reflect on their own experiences, listen and most importantly ask questions.