Anamika Bhattacharjee, PhD (ongoing)
PhD student, history
University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
Biography
Anamika Bhattacharjee, born on January 8, 1995, in Siliguri, West Bengal, India, is a historian with a deep passion for exploring the complexities of cultural interactions. Her academic journey began at St. Joseph's School in Siliguri, where she first developed a love for learning. This early education was furthered at Holy Child Auxilium School in Vasant Vihar, New Delhi, India, where she broadened her understanding across various academic disciplines.
Anamika's pursuit of knowledge took her to Ram Lal Anand College at the University of Delhi, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts with Honors in History. During this time, she immersed herself in studying the past, striving to understand its impact on the present. She then continued her studies with a master's degree in history at Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, where she honed her analytical skills and deepened her scholarly expertise.
Her academic curiosity and dedication to excellence led her to the University of East Anglia, where she embarked on a doctoral journey. Her research focuses on British interpretations of sacred Hindu festivals from 1757 to 1858, exploring the nuances of cultural exchange and colonial perceptions. Through her work, she hopes to contribute valuable insights to the field of historical discourse.
In addition to her studies, Anamika has shared her knowledge as a Lecturer at Salesian College in Siliguri, India, where she had the opportunity to inspire and guide the next generation of historians. She has also authored two well-regarded research works, History of Siliguri (1800-2020) and Tribes and Castes of the Darjeeling District, both of which have been appreciated for their careful scholarship and thoughtful analysis.
Now residing in Norwich, UK, Anamika continues to contribute to the academic community as an educator and cover teacher, using her expertise to foster intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. She also volunteers with organizations such as Hungate (Norwich),The Gardens Trust, and The Norwich Theatre where she actively supports cultural preservation and community engagement.
Anamika's commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship was demonstrated by her participation in a recent History seminar at the University of East Anglia on May 1, 2024, where she engaged in meaningful academic discussions and exchanged ideas with fellow scholars.
Research Interest
Indian Medieval History (1500-1700) ? Exploring the political, social, and cultural dynamics of medieval India, particularly focusing on the Mughal Empire and its interactions with regional powers.
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Indian Modern History (1750-1950) ? Investigating the transformative processes that shaped modern India, delving into the colonial period, the rise of nationalism and the struggle for independence.
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British Imperialism and Modern South Asia ? Research and teaching interests encompassing the complex histories of British imperialism in South Asia, examining the economic, political and cultural legacies of colonial rule.
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Colonial Christianity and Missionary Activities ? Exploring the role of Christianity in the colonial encounter, investigating missionary activities, religious conversions and their impacts on indigenous cultures.
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Orientalist Thoughts in Colonial India ? Examining orientalist discourses and representations in colonial India, analysing how Western perceptions shaped understandings of South Asian societies and cultures.
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Historiography in Colonialism ? Critically engaging with the historiography of colonialism, exploring the construction of historical narratives and the ways in which power dynamics influence historical interpretations.
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Human Rights and Global Justice ? Committed to issues of human rights and global justice, examining historical and contemporary struggles for justice, equity and rights, with a focus on South Asia and beyond.
