An evening of historical rediscovery and inspiring reflection unfolded in Bhubaneswar as The Write Circle, hosted author and biographer Deepta Roy Chakraverti in conversation with Nidhi Garg, Ehsaas Woman of Bhubaneswar. The session explored the extraordinary life of Jamini Sen, one of India’s pioneering women physicians whose remarkable legacy remains largely overlooked in her homeland. The evening began with a warm welcome by Varun Shangloo, General Manager of Vivanta Bhubaneswar.
Chakraverti shared how discovering that Jamini Sen continues to be honoured in Scotland while remaining relatively unknown in India became the catalyst for her book. “The West remembers her and celebrates her, but her own country forgot her. I felt that was deeply wrong,” she remarked, explaining how that sense of injustice fuelled years of research.
Drawing from family archives, oral histories, and extensive historical investigation, the author spent nearly three years reconstructing Jamini Sen’s life. Beyond research, however, she described developing a profound connection with her subject. “A successful biography requires a kind of possession. You have to allow the personality to blend into your life,” she reflected.
The discussion highlighted how Jamini Sen emerged during a transformative period marked by the Bengal Renaissance and the rise of women’s education. Chakraverti observed that figures like Jamini appear during moments of great societal change and continue to inspire future generations. “At times of uncertainty, lives like hers remind us of courage, endurance, integrity, and faith,” she said.
A particularly engaging segment focused on the influence of Jamini’s father, Chandicharan Sen, a progressive thinker who encouraged his daughters to pursue education for the love of learning. This support, combined with Jamini’s own determination, enabled her to overcome significant social barriers and build an extraordinary career.
The conversation also explored her decade-long service in Nepal, where she not only served as physician to the royal family but also played a vital role in strengthening women’s healthcare systems. Equally relevant were reflections on the societal scrutiny she faced as an independent, unmarried woman who adopted a child, a reality that still resonates today.
The session concluded with an engaging audience interaction, followed by the author’s felicitation by Pradipta Kumar Tripathy. Vedula Ramalakshmi, Ehsaas Woman of Bhubaneswar, delivered the vote of thanks before attendees gathered for a book-signing session.
This session of The Write Circle was organized with the support of Ehsaas Women of Bhubaneswar; Hospitality Partner, Vivanta Bhubaneswar
