🖊️Dayeeta Chowdhury

In an age where rigid academic boundaries often limit innovation, A New Journey arrives as a refreshing intellectual intervention. Edited by Professor Emeritus Bula Bhadra of Sister Nivedita University and Professor (Retd.) Ashoke Ranjan Thakur, the book is an interdisciplinary anthology published by the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies and Research. It brings together diverse voices that challenge conventional ways of thinking and learning.
Speaking about the essence of the book, Prof. Bhadra described it as an exploration that goes beyond fixed disciplines. The collection includes articles that span sociology, history, literature, music, artificial intelligence, and the lived realities of Bengal’s society. Interestingly, she draws a compelling parallel between mathematics and art, showing how patterns, logic, creativity, and emotion intersect across fields. As she aptly puts it, “We don’t follow discipline; we follow problems and society.” This philosophy lies at the heart of A New Journey.
The book is particularly relevant for students navigating an increasingly complex world. According to Prof. Bhadra, it offers a realistic understanding of contemporary social and cultural issues, encouraging readers to think critically and contextually. Rather than treating subjects in isolation, the book unlocks an interdisciplinary approach that connects sociology with history, literature, and present-day global challenges—skills essential for students today.
Reflecting on the process of creating the book, Prof. Bhadra shared that the project began on 23 January 2023 and was both demanding and deeply fulfilling. With her own interdisciplinary academic background, she found joy in shaping the book through adda-baithaks, departmental workshops, and collaborative discussions. Despite the challenges of bringing multiple perspectives together, the journey was marked by intellectual excitement and collective learning.
A New Journey is not merely a book; it is an invitation—to question boundaries, to embrace dialogue, and to view society through a lens that values connection over compartmentalisation. For students and scholars alike, it opens doors to thinking that is as inclusive as it is insightful.