This post gives a brief overview of my experience with digitised archives. The Endangered Archives Programme (EAP) at the British Library is a digital collection of archival material from around the world that are in danger of destruction, neglect or physical deterioration.
Gender and Feminism
Victim Blaming: The Patriarchy of Sex Crimes
One of the most heinous crimes against women in India, was the rape and fatal assault of Jyoti Singh, who came to be known as Nirbhaya (fearless). A student in her early twenties, Jyoti was gang raped by six men at the back of a moving bus during an evening in New Delhi on 16 December 2012.
The ‘invisibility’ of Muslim Women: Locating Muslim Women’s Voices in the History of Modern South Asia
With the rise of women’s history and the history of gender in the late twentieth century, feminist scholars and historians have contributed significantly to the body of knowledge regarding Indian women’s history. This has included women’s activities in both the nationalist and women’s movements, as well as feminist initiatives in social reform and the uplift … Continue reading The ‘invisibility’ of Muslim Women: Locating Muslim Women’s Voices in the History of Modern South Asia
Islamic Reform and Female Education: Social Reforms for Muslim Women in Late Colonial India
Muslim reformers in nineteenth century India identified a need for Islamic reform due to a perceived decline of Islam in India. These reformers saw evidence of this decline in the adherence of Indian Muslims to false customs and practices disguised in the name of religion, and the accusations of ‘Muslim backwardness’ by colonial authorities.[1] Muslim … Continue reading Islamic Reform and Female Education: Social Reforms for Muslim Women in Late Colonial India
Are Social Reforms Necessary?
Why are social reforms important? Do they have the potential to completely transform a society? Are these changes always perceived as a positive alteration of societal norms? Do all sections of society benefit from these reforms?
A World of Opportunities
Gender notions were crucial to the organisation of societies, yet this idea can now be challenged due to the work of early reformers, broadening the opportunities open to all regardless of social or biological positions.
Dr Sabera Bhayat 