About the Course

Why Our Course?

Students in the West—and, unfortunately, by extension, in the Western-style university system here in Turkey—are primarily introduced to Western literature across its various epochs, eras, and languages. Even if they are acquainted with some excerpts of the Western canon, foundational civilizations like India and China are often neglected. This is a gap we’re passionate about filling. 

In our increasingly multipolar world, with India’s growing and diverse population and the shifting geopolitics between China and the US, it’s more important than ever for students to engage with the rich literary traditions of these cultures. 

We understand that concepts like “India,” “Indian,” and “Indian literature” are contested terms—constantly being negotiated, politically and socially enforced. That’s why we need to enrich our perspective on these matters.

You will:

• Enjoy various literary forms, including sutras, classical Sanskrit epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Tamil epics like Silappadikaram, and drama like Shakuntala, Sufi and Bhakti poetry, Indian films, ghazals, and qawwalis by literary icons such as Amir Khusrau, Mirza Ghalib, and Mir Taqi Mir.
• Examine themes such as the caste system, the struggle that led to Dalit literature, the interplay between Buddhist and Vedic traditions, and the role of Islam in South Asian literature and culture.