2nd Summer Program in Punjab Studies

July-August 1998

In general, participants in Columbia University's Punjabi Language and Culture Program in the summer of 1998 found the program extremely beneficial both personally and academically. Graduate students in the course emphasized that the program provided crucial contextual experience for future work, which will be of "immeasurable help." One participant described the program as "critical" for any student working on the Punjab, in that it provides "crucial language training, a comprehensive overview of the region, as well as the opportunity to pursue individual's particular interests." Another student felt that the program was ideal for a student in the first few years of graduate work, while formulating ideas for research. Overall, participants were positive about the program and its value for a diversity of students.

Ghadar Memorial, Jalandhar

History: This section of the course was described by one participant as "the strongest area" and, by the group's youngest member, as "really good." Even an advanced student of South Asian history found the lectures enabled her to "challenge my own notions of Punjab's history." Another participant described the opportunity to work with Drs. Grewal, Banga, and others as a "once-in-a-lifetime thing." For one student, who was exploring possible topics for her Ph.D. dissertation, the lectures were ideal in that they provided a general overview while also providing in-depth information and analysis. The breadth covered was identified by participants as being of immense value.

Culture: This section enabled students to meet with and learn from representatives of many different aspects of Punjabi society. This was described by participants as "unique" and "fundamentally important." Although some speakers were "a little weak," in general the visiting lecturers on literature were "fascinating." Another participant found the literature sessions a bit repetitive and wished for more variety. The program director was flexible about the material to be covered in this section, and provided opportunities for students to pursue their own individual interests in exploring Punjabi culture. During discussion, the suggestion was made to shorten the time for some speakers.

Language: This component of the program was described by one participant as the "weak link." The language materials currently being developed by Dr. Mann and his team, which were used for part of the course, were identified by this participant as "a big help" for future programs. Drills and additional oral conversation work were identified as helpful possible additions to the program. Advanced students were given the opportunity for intensive study of the 18th century Punjabi version of Hir Ranjha by Varis Shah. This was identified by participants who took advantage of the opportunity as extremely valuable.

Field Trips: This was a highlight of the program. As one participant put it, "all the field trips were wonderful experiences" which enable one to get "a realistic sense of history." All identified these as being extremely enjoyable and beneficial.

Minaret at Qadian

General comments: Although some found the differences in background among members of the group challenging at times, all participants emphasized that the diversity of the group was one of its strengths. This diversity provided valuable learning opportunities for all. The group's youngest member emphasized that she had a hard time adjusting to lectures at first, but that she found them extremely beneficial once she got used to them. She also learned a lot from talking with the other members of the group, and learning what they do. This same participant emphasized that Dr. Mann should schedule himself as a speaker for the group.

In general, Dr. Mann was described as being central to the success of the program. He "exerted a lot of effort and care" to meet the needs of students, was "extremely giving and flexible," and his "love and knowledge of the Punjab was infectious and inspiring." His local knowledge was described by one participant as "rigorous, comprehensive, and always warmly entertaining." This same participant described Dr. Mann as "an exceedingly capable, warm and ingenious human being whose commitment to Punjab cannot help but infect those who are fortunate to come into contact with him."

*This report was compiled by program participant Anne Murphy and reflects group discussion among program participants and written evaluations.