Co-Curriculur Activities
The Department of English nurtures a vibrant academic culture where learning extends far beyond the classroom through a rich blend of literary, creative, and community-oriented activities. From theatre productions, academic excursions, and creative magazines to workshops, guest lectures, and socially engaged initiatives, English Literature emerges as a dynamic and living discipline. These engagements deepen literary appreciation, enhance critical and creative thinking, and contribute to the development of communication, collaboration, research, and cultural awareness. As participants and contributors, students engage with literary texts in relation to real-world contexts, cultivate empathy, and build confidence in expressing their ideas. Collectively, such experiences contribute to shaping informed readers, reflective thinkers, and socially conscious individuals equipped with intellectual and interpersonal abilities central to the study of English Literature.
Mirage: The Annual Drama Event
MIRAGE functions as the annual theatre showcase, designed to bring literature to life through creative reinterpretation of iconic plays on stage. It serves as a platform for exploration of performance, deeper engagement with dramatic texts, and the development of confidence, collaboration, and expressive skills through experiential learning.
The annual theatre event MIRAGE features student performances drawn from significant dramatic and narrative works such as Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s The Yellow Wallpaper, John Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi, O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi, and Beth Henley’s Crimes of the Heart. The event includes a choir performance that contributes to a harmonious and reflective opening. A central highlight remains The Yellow Wallpaper – A Mind Unraveling, which presents a powerful depiction of a woman’s gradual descent into madness, engaging with themes of mental health and the silenced role of women in society. The performances collectively reflect students’ creativity, literary understanding, and stage presence.
Student presentations also encompass a wide range of classical English dramas and adaptations, including The Good Person of Szechwan by Bertolt Brecht, Ghosts by Henrik Ibsen, Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe, Abhigyan Shakuntalam by Kalidasa, Oedipus Rex, Three Blind Mice, and an adaptation of La La Land.
Annual Theatre Event Mirage 2k26
The Department of English conducts its Annual Theatre Event, Mirage, as a vibrant celebration of dramatic arts and creativity. Each performance showcases exceptional direction, compelling narratives, and impactful acting. The stage transforms into a realm where reality and illusion blur, as performers pour their hearts into every ensemble piece.
Beyond the spectacle, Mirage serves as a profound laboratory for experiential learning. The
students do not merely memorise lines; they engage in a deep semiotic analysis of the texts.
Theatre teaches them the invaluable art of empathy by stepping into the psyche of
characters. By performing works ranging from Plautus to Ruskin Bond, the students bridge
the gap between different eras and cultures, fostering a global perspective and a deeper
appreciation for the human condition. The event underscores the philosophy that there are
no small parts. The ensemble pieces demonstrate how individual egos must be set aside for
the greater good of the production. This collective effort fosters a sense of community and
belonging within the Department of English, as students from various backgrounds unite to
achieve a singular artistic vision. It is a collective journey that captures the true essence of
the dramatic arts, proving that the stage is one of the most powerful tools for personal and
academic growth.
MIRAGE is the annual theatre showcase, designed to bring literature to life by allowing students to creatively reinterpret iconic plays on stage. It serves as a platform for students to explore performance, deepen their understanding of dramatic texts, and develop confidence, collaboration, and expressive skills through experiential learning.
The annual theatre event MIRAGE 2025 showcased four compelling student performances drawn from significant dramatic and narrative works: Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s The Yellow Wallpaper, John Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi, O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi, and Beth Henley’s Crimes of the Heart.
The day began on a serene note with a soulful choir performance, filling the hall with harmony and inspiration. The highlight of the event was the powerful play “The Yellow Wallpaper – A Mind Unraveling,” which movingly depicted a woman’s gradual descent into madness, reflecting on mental health and the silenced role of women in society. The performances showcased the students’ creativity, literary understanding, and stage presence, making MIRAGE 2025 a memorable success.
In the past, students have presented an astonishing set of classical English Dramas
such as: The Good Person of Schezwan by Bertolt Brecht, Ghosts by Henrik Ibsen, Dr.
Faustus by Christopher Marlowe, Abhigyan Shakuntlam by Kalidasa, The Oedipus Rex,
Three Blind Mice, and an adaptation of La La Land.
Inauguration Ceremony
Ball Dance
The Yellow Wallpaper – A Mind Unraveling
Mirage 2024
Mirage 2023
Mirage 2022
Mirage 2021
Mirage 2021
Academic Excursions
Academic excursions form a regular component of each semester. Each excursion is designed to widen students’ cultural, historical, and aesthetic understanding, enabling literature to be perceived not merely as text but as a lived experience shaped by social spaces, heritage sites, and community narratives.
Captured Memories & Historical Echoes: A Women’s Day Tribute
The visit to the Partition Museum and Sunder Nursery centres on exploring the gendered narratives of shared history. At the Partition Museum, the focus remains on the gendered dimensions of displacement, drawing upon oral histories and material artefacts as primary texts. This is complemented by an engagement with Sunder Nursery, where Mughal-era architectural heritage and biodiversity serve as a lens to examine nature as a resilient historical archive.
Heritage and Imagination: A Visit to Gandhi Smriti and Nehru Planetarium
The experience at Gandhi Smriti Sthal and Nehru Planetarium extends literary learning beyond the classroom, offering insights into history, culture, and literature. Through guided discussions and real-world exposure, reflections emerge on how heritage, time, and imagination shape literary expression. The engagement contributes to academic curiosity, cultural appreciation, student–teacher interaction, peer bonding, and collective reflection, strengthening departmental unity.
Exploring History at Qutab Minar and the Cultural Landscape of Hauz Khas Village
The exploration of Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside Hauz Khas Village combines historical inquiry with contemporary cultural engagement. The experience enables participants to witness architectural grandeur alongside modern vibrancy, deepening appreciation of Delhi’s cultural heritage
History and Handicrafts: Humayun’s Tomb and Dilli Haat
The engagement with Humayun’s Tomb and Dilli Haat offers a blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship. At Humayun’s Tomb, attention centres on Mughal architectural brilliance, symmetry, and historical significance. At Dilli Haat, exposure to crafts, textiles, cuisines, and artisan practices reflects the diversity of India’s cultural heritage.
Learning Beyond Books at the India International Trade Fair
Exposure to the India International Trade Fair enables exploration of diverse social and cultural dimensions across India and the globe. Exhibits ranging from fabrics and food to handicrafts, skincare products, and jewellery provide insight into regional identities and global exchange, extending learning beyond textual boundaries.
A Literary Trail: Lodhi Garden and Iconic Bookstores of Delhi
The trail through Lodhi Garden and visits to iconic bookstores such as Faqir Chand and Bahri Sons integrate historical exploration with literary engagement. Lodhi Garden offers insights into architecture, conservation, and inspiration for writers, while the bookstores provide access to rare and contemporary works, fostering creativity and reflection.
Exploring Heritage and Biodiversity at Sunder Nursery
The experience at Sunder Nursery highlights its significance as both a historical and ecological site. Mughal-era origins, later British contributions, and biodiversity—featuring rare and endangered plant species—illustrate the intersection of culture and conservation, fostering appreciation for heritage and environment.
Cultural Immersion at Noida Haveli
An immersive cultural experience at Noida Haveli provides exposure to folk music, traditional cuisine, and pre-modern practices. Engagement with Rajasthan’s classical heritage contributes to a broadened cultural perspective.
Walking Through History at Mehrauli Archaeological Park
The exploration of Mehrauli Archaeological Park provides engagement with Mughal history and natural surroundings, enabling connections with literary ideas such as Romanticism and cultural memory.
The Department Magazine: Reflections
The Department’s magazine Reflections serves as a platform for publishing creative and critical student work through bi-annual Spring and Fall editions organised around thematic cores. The magazine encourages articulation of ideas, experimentation with literary forms, and the development of authorial voice, fostering originality and sustained literary engagement.
Annual Edition 2026 (Theme: Contemporary Humanism)
The Department of English proudly launched the 12th issue of its annual magazine Reflections: Blossom in Unison, centred on the thought-provoking theme "Contemporary Humanism". The magazine is a rich compilation of articles, poems, and diverse literary expressions contributed by both students and faculty members of the department, reflecting a wide range of perspectives on the theme. It acts as a bridge between traditional values and the complexities of the 2020s. It moves beyond the historical focus on the individual and instead interrogates our collective existence in a world shaped by rapid technological shifts, environmental crises, and a renewed search for shared meaning.
The Editorial and Design Team comprised enthusiastic students from across all years, including Drishti Arora, Gurbani Kaur, Sejal Dabas, Aditi Apte, Shorya Kumar, Harshita Baid, Mahi Khan, and Suhani Solanki. Their creative efforts were guided by Mr Sanjay Chopra and Dr Shivani Duggal, under the overall supervision of Dr Anuja Thakar, Head of the Department of English. The magazine was formally launched on 7th April 2026 in the college lawns amidst the beauty of nature. The event celebrated the literary talents of the department and highlighted the importance of creative expression in engaging with contemporary human values.
Spring Edition 2025 (Theme: Sacred Heritage)
Rooted in the idea of cultural continuity, this issue gathers poems, essays, narratives, and artwork that engage with traditions, memory, and identity. The contributions reflect how personal, familial, and collective inheritances continue to shape contemporary consciousness, while recognising the creative commitment of the contributors. The thematic focus allows for a nuanced exploration of heritage as both a source of grounding and a space of reinterpretation. Through varied literary and artistic forms, the edition captures the emotional, historical, and philosophical dimensions of belonging and legacy, encouraging readers to reflect on the enduring presence of the past in the present.
Fall Edition 2024 (Theme: Boundless)
Building on the notion of limitless potential, this volume brings together diverse creative expressions that foreground resilience, imagination, and especially women’s voices. The works collectively celebrate the idea of possibility beyond boundaries. The edition traverses themes of identity, aspiration, and self-discovery, offering perspectives that challenge limitations and reimagine freedom. By presenting narratives that cross personal and social boundaries, the collection highlights the transformative power of creativity and the capacity of literature to envision new horizons
Spring Edition 2024 (Theme: Embracing Change)
With change as its central motif, the collection captures transitions, renewal, and adaptation through poems, short fiction, essays, and visual art. The range of perspectives highlights both individual and societal transformations in an evolving world. The contributions engage with moments of uncertainty and growth, reflecting on how change shapes identity and experience. By situating personal narratives within broader social shifts, the edition offers a layered understanding of resilience and transformation, emphasising the creative possibilities that emerge through change.
Fall Edition 2023 (Theme: With Gratitude)
Framed around reflection and appreciation, the writings and artwork in this edition engage with lived experiences that inspire introspection. The overall tone remains thoughtful and affirmative, while acknowledging the efforts of contributors. The theme of gratitude unfolds across personal narratives, poetic reflections, and creative expressions that highlight relationships, memories, and moments of quiet significance. In doing so, the edition fosters a reflective sensibility that values acknowledgment, humility, and emotional depth.
Spring Edition 2023
Marked by enthusiastic participation, this issue presents a vibrant mix of creative expressions that contribute to the growing literary culture of the Department. The contributions reflect both emerging voices and a shared commitment to creative exploration. The diversity of themes and styles underscores a willingness to experiment with form and language, allowing students to articulate unique perspectives. This edition also reflects a strengthening of the Department’s literary community, where collaborative engagement and creative confidence continue to flourish.
Fall Edition 2022
Distinguished by a blend of literary contributions and cultural elements, this edition reflects collaborative effort and creative diversity. The inclusion of performances and artistic engagement enhances its celebratory character. The writings and artworks capture a wide spectrum of ideas and emotions, demonstrating both depth and originality. The edition also reflects the integration of literary expression with performative and visual arts, creating a holistic platform for student creativity.
Spring Edition 2022
Characterised by a balance of academic engagement and creative expression, this issue reflects the collaborative spirit of the Department. The accompanying cultural elements and acknowledgements further underscore a sense of collective achievement. The contributions reveal thoughtful engagement with literary forms, supported by a strong foundation in academic inquiry. At the same time, the edition highlights the importance of creative expression as a means of personal and intellectual exploration, reinforcing the Department’s commitment to holistic learning
Literary Events
Lit-Fest 2023
The Literary Festival serves as a vibrant platform for showcasing student creativity and literary talent through a diverse range of activities. Events such as dramatic monologue competitions, street plays, and painting competitions encourage participants to engage deeply with literary themes while expressing themselves artistically. The festival fosters a spirit of healthy competition and collaboration, drawing participation from across departments. It also provides opportunities for students to experiment with performance, visual storytelling, and interpretative skills, thereby strengthening confidence, creativity, and stage presence. Recognition through awards and appreciation further motivates participants and celebrates excellence in literary and artistic expression.
Rendezvous - The Cultural Fest 2022
Rendezvous emerges as a dynamic cultural platform that blends literary engagement with performance-based creativity. The fest features a wide array of activities, including chorus singing, ball dance, sing-along sessions, and interactive events such as wordsmith, manifestation board, and ink-it. These activities encourage students to explore language, rhythm, and expression in diverse forms. In addition, the fest invites inter-departmental participation through storytelling sessions like “Tell a Tale” and dramatic monologues, thereby creating an inclusive and collaborative environment. The overall experience promotes confidence, teamwork, and creative exploration, while strengthening the cultural fabric of the institution.
Confluence-2021
Confluence, a poetry-centred literary event, provides a reflective space for engaging with themes such as suffering, hope, and resilience. It encourages participants to articulate personal and collective experiences through poetic expression, fostering introspection and emotional depth. The event often brings together academic voices and literary perspectives that enrich the participants’ understanding of narrative and thematic construction. By foregrounding ideas of transformation and feminine energies, Confluence enables meaningful dialogue and critical engagement with contemporary and timeless concerns. It serves as both a creative outlet and an intellectual forum for exploring the power of poetry.
Alumni Talk on the occasion of orientation Programme: September 2025
The Orientation Programme held in September 2025 served as a warm and meaningful welcome for newly admitted students, introducing them to the academic ethos and campus environment. As part of the programme, an Alumni Talk was organized to connect freshers with shared experiences and encourage a smooth transition into college life.
The session featured an address by alumna Ms. Anjali Jaiswal, who spoke about her academic journey and personal growth, offering practical insights and encouragement to the new students. Adding further inspiration to the occasion, Ms. Vandana Bhatia Palli, Founder and Director of Highbrow Scribes Publications, was present as the Guest of Honour and delivered a motivational lecture that emphasized aspiration, perseverance, and the importance of nurturing one’s creative and professional potential.
The event successfully blended orientation with inspiration, creating a supportive and uplifting atmosphere that left students motivated and confident as they begin their academic journey.
The Department organised an insightful career talk in April 2025 delivered by Ms. Aishwarya, a distinguished alumna of the department. She shared her professional journey and highlighted the wide spectrum of career opportunities available to English graduates, from content writing and communication roles to publishing, teaching, and digital media. Aishwarya focused on the importance of skill-building, adaptability, and continuous learning in today’s evolving job market. Her practical insights and encouraging words motivated students to explore their strengths and approach their career paths with confidence.The session was engaging, informative, and warmly received. The department extended its gratitude to Aishwarya for her time and thoughtful guidance.
Alumni Talk on the occasion of Orientation Function: September 2023.
Jagannath Community College organised an Orientation Meet in September 2023 to welcome the incoming batch of students and familiarize them with the academic culture of the institution. As part of the programme, two distinguished alumni — Ms. Aishwarya Bharadwaj and Ms. Deepika Malhotra — were invited to interact with the students.
Both speakers shared their academic journeys, professional experiences, and the role the college played in shaping their careers. They motivated students to make the best use of campus resources, participate actively in classroom and co-curricular activities, and cultivate skills essential for personal and professional growth. Their engaging interaction helped students gain clarity about future opportunities and inspired them to set meaningful goals for their time at the college. The session reflected the institution’s commitment to fostering a strong alumni–student connect and creating a supportive learning environment for every learner.
Summer Projects
Jagannath Community College organises Summer Projects to promote experiential learning beyond the classroom. Students work in small groups of two to three and are assigned culturally and historically significant sites such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, the National Museum, Lal Qila, Humayun’s Tomb, Chandni Chowk, and other heritage locations.
During their visits, students observe, interact, and document their experiences, gaining deeper insights into India’s artistic, historical, and socio-cultural landscape. Each group then prepares a detailed presentation and submits a written report reflecting their observations, learning outcomes, and personal reflections. This exercise not only enriches students’ understanding of heritage and community life but also strengthens their research skills, teamwork, communication abilities, and sense of civic awareness.
Summer Project 2025: A Learning Journey “Beyond Maps, We Found Meaning”
The Department of English hosted its much-anticipated Summer Project – A Learning Journey with the theme “Beyond Maps, We Found Meaning.” The initiative was designed to encourage students to go beyond the classroom and explore the world around them as a source of inspiration and learning.
As part of the project, second-year students visited various places, observed their surroundings, and engaged with real-world experiences. They then translated their findings into thoughtful projects and creative presentations, showcasing their insights, reflections, and discoveries.
The event beautifully captured the spirit of exploration, reflection, and learning beyond boundaries. From creative expressions to insightful observations, the students brought forward a rich tapestry of ideas that reflected curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Summer Project 2024
The Summer Project 2024 offered the students of the 2023–26 batch an enriching opportunity to step beyond the classroom and engage with real-world environments. Over the course of their fieldwork, the students explored diverse community spaces, interacted with people from various walks of life, and observed the everyday challenges and aspirations that shape society.
The project encouraged critical thinking, empathy, and reflective learning. Through hands-on experiences, students deepened their understanding of social behaviour, cultural patterns, and the importance of civic awareness. Their observations and documented insights reflect not only academic diligence but also a growing sensitivity towards the world around them.
The Summer Project 2024 ultimately helped the young learners develop a broader perspective, preparing them to become informed, responsible, and socially conscious individuals in their future academic and professional journeys.
Fresher’s Party
Jagannath Community College organises Summer Projects during the vacation to promote experiential learning beyond the classroom. Students work in small groups of two to three and are assigned culturally and historically significant sites such as the National Gallery of Modern Art, the National Museum, Lal Qila, Humayun’s Tomb, Chandni Chowk, and other heritage locations.
During their visits, students observe, interact, and document their experiences, gaining deeper insights into India’s artistic, historical, and socio-cultural landscape. Each group then prepares a detailed presentation and submits a written report reflecting their observations, learning outcomes, and personal reflections. This exercise not only enriches students’ understanding of heritage and community life but also strengthens their research skills, teamwork, communication abilities, and sense of civic awareness.
The Fresher’s Party functions as a welcoming platform that encourages interaction, creative expression, and integration into the academic community. Through performances, introductions, and interactive activities, new students are provided with opportunities to showcase their talents and engage with peers. The event fosters a sense of belonging and ease, helping freshers transition smoothly into college life while celebrating individuality and participation. Recognition of standout participants adds to the celebratory spirit of the occasion.
The Fresher’s Party of 2025 offered a refreshing start to the academic year, with an event crafted to help new students break the ice and express themselves with ease. From creative performances to engaging conversations, the programme encouraged participation and celebrated individuality. The event radiated warmth and inclusivity, giving freshers a memorable first experience of campus life. This year, Manya stood out for her charm and stage presence, earning the title of Ms Fresher. The celebration ended on a high note with music, dance, and an atmosphere of shared joy and anticipation for the year ahead.
The 2024 edition of the Fresher’s Party welcomed newcomers with an event that blended creativity, camaraderie, and youthful energy. Freshers engaged in a range of activities designed to bring out their personalities, from expressive self-introductions to dynamic stage performances. The event unfolded with a warm, festive spirit, offering students a chance to connect and feel part of the JCC community. This year, Shourya and Aditi captivated the audience and judges alike, earning the titles of Mr Fresher and Ms Fresher for their confidence and overall presentation. The evening concluded with music, dance, and a joyful sense of togetherness.
The Fresher’s Party of 2023 at Jagannath Community College was a spirited celebration marking the arrival of the new batch. The programme featured lively introductions, impressive talent performances, and warm interactions that helped students settle comfortably into the campus culture. The atmosphere was vibrant, with enthusiastic participation from all freshers. Among the standout performers, Kshitij and Bhumi Sommal were honoured with the titles of Mr Fresher and Ms Fresher respectively, adding a memorable highlight to an evening filled with dance, laughter, and shared excitement about the journey ahead.
Eudaimonia
Women’s Day Celebrations
Women’s Day celebrations include film screenings, interactive quizzes, and symbolic activities such as balloon exercises, focusing on resilience, empowerment, and collective reflection. The celebration creates a participatory environment that encourages dialogue and awareness while acknowledging the contributions and achievements of women.
Documentary Screening
Documentary-based activities involve the presentation of student-created films that document their experiences and observations from academic excursions. These screenings highlight analytical thinking, narrative construction, and technical skills. The process of creating and presenting documentaries fosters teamwork, creativity, and critical engagement with cultural and historical contexts, enhancing both academic and practical learning.
Quotation Station
Quotation Station engages students with literary quotations spanning different movements and authors. The activity encourages interpretation, reflection, and creative engagement with language. By connecting with the philosophical and metaphorical depth of literary expressions, students enhance their understanding of literature as a medium that expands perception and insight beyond immediate reality.
Treasure Hunt Activity
The Treasure Hunt activity encourages application of literary concepts such as realism through everyday objects. Through observation, interpretation, and creative explanation, students explore how theoretical ideas manifest in real-life contexts. The activity promotes critical thinking, engagement, and experiential learning, making abstract concepts more accessible and meaningful.