Two-Day International Conference on Myth, History and Tradition in Drama and Theater

The Department of English, School of Humanities and Languages, Central University of Karnataka, organized a two-day International Conference on “Myth, History and Tradition in Drama and Theater” on 2nd and 3rd December 2025. The conference aimed to provide a dynamic academic platform for scholars, students, and researchers to explore the relationship between mythology, historical narratives, and traditional performance practices in drama and theatre.

The event was held at the Central University of Karnataka and witnessed active participation from scholars, faculty members, and students. The programme was enriched by the presence of distinguished resource persons, including Dr. Khagendra Acharya and Dr. N. S. Gundur, Senior Professor and Chairman, Department of Studies and Research in English, Tumkur University.

The conference sessions focused on understanding how myths, historical events, and traditional cultural practices continue to influence modern dramatic works and theatrical performances. The speakers highlighted the relevance of classical narratives in interpreting contemporary social, political, and cultural realities.

A major highlight of the conference was the active participation of students and scholars through paper presentations. Students presented insightful papers on diverse literary and socio-political themes.

Qhudsia Wajid  a faculty and a scholar presented a paper on “Holocaust and Genocide in Martin Sherman’s Play Bent,” which explored trauma, identity, and historical suffering.

Yasmeen Begum  M.A. student presented a paper titled “The Alchemy of Greed: A Critical Study of Corruption in Ben Jonson’s Comedy,” which analyzed themes of greed, morality, and corruption in classical comedic literature.

Aiman Mehvish M.A. student presented a paper titled “Female Autonomy and Male Patriarchy in The Duchess of Malfi,” which critically explored issues of gender, agency, and patriarchal dominance in the play.

Ammara Sadaf M.A. student presented a paper titled “Corruption, Power and Madness: A Modern Political Reading of Ferdinand and Cardinal in The Duchess of Malfi” examined political corruption and psychological complexity in classical drama.

Zaiba Samreenan M.A. student presented “Visionary Ambition and Failed Leadership in Girish Karnad’s Tughlaq,” critically examining political idealism and leadership failure.

Syeda HufzaUmamaan M.A. student presented “Reimagining Myth: A Study of Girish Karnad’s Mythological Dramas – Hayavadana and Nagamandala,” highlighting reinterpretation of myth in modern theatre.

The conference was also attended by students including Syeda Zohra Butool, Zoya Irum, Raheemunnisa, and Syed Muddaber Nawaz Guest Faculty and Research Scholar of the Dept. of English.

The conference provided students with an opportunity to enhance their academic skills, including research, critical thinking, and presentation abilities. It also encouraged intellectual exchange and collaborative learning among participants.

Overall, the conference created a meaningful academic environment that fostered dialogue learning, and deeper understanding of drama and theatre studies. It successfully highlighted the continued relevance of myth, history, and tradition in shaping modern theatrical discourse.