I. World History and Culture

H. South Asian

Caste, Class and Gender: Women's Work in India
By Meenakshi Dalal
This presentation is based on Dalal's field study of women's work in rural India. It treats such topics as arranged marriages and the dowry system, the seclusion of women, the caste system and the variety of women's work in India. Dalal's presentation is accompanied by a slide show.

Cultural Practices in India
By Meenakshi Dalal
Dalal discusses the many facets of Indian tradition and culture, including arranged marriage, the caste system and goddess worship. 

The Diversity of Life in South Asia
By Robert Stoddard
This program focuses on the everyday lives of people in South Asia, especially India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, as expressed in their work, folk art, architecture and religion. Emphasis can be adjusted according to the needs of your group. This is not a travelogue. Rather, the contents draw upon the experiences of the presenters during several periods of living and studying in South Asia. The presentation may consist of either explanations and interpretations of colored photographs (that would be displayed best as wall hangings) or commentaries on slide photos.

Goddess Worship
By Meenakshi Dalal 
This program uses slides and discusses "Worship of Goddess Durga," the biggest festival in West Bengal during early autumn. The status of women in India is explored along with the cultural discussion.