The South Asia Institute, in collaboration with the Ismaili Council for the Midwestern USA, is delighted to host the launch of Dr. Najma Heptulla’s celebrated memoir, In Pursuit of Democracy: Beyond Party Lines.
This special event will feature a conversation between the author and Dr. Madhuvanti Ghose, the Alsdorf Associate Curator at the Art Institute of Chicago. The discussion will be followed by a book signing and light refreshments, offering attendees a chance to engage with the author and explore the themes of her inspiring journey.
About the Author:
Dr. Najma Heptulla is a renowned parliamentarian, a passionate advocate for democracy, social justice, and women’s rights, and an accomplished author. With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, she served as the presiding officer of India’s Upper House of Parliament for 17 years, held the position of Minister of Minority Affairs, and was the Governor of Manipur. A skilled diplomat, Dr. Heptulla has played a pivotal role in advancing international dialogue on critical global issues, including gender equality and women’s empowerment.
She is also the grandniece of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, a celebrated Islamic scholar and Indian independence activist.
About Madhuvanti Ghose:
Dr. Madhuvanti Ghose is the inaugural Alsdorf Associate Curator of Indian, Southeast Asian, and Himalayan Art at the Art Institute of Chicago. Since joining the museum in 2007, she has curated groundbreaking exhibitions and installations, including the opening of the Alsdorf Galleries in 2008, Jitish Kallat’s Public Notice 3 (2010–11), and India Modern: The Paintings of M. F. Husain (2017–18), among many others.
Pre-Purchase the Book:
The memoir is available for pre-purchase with your event ticket. Don’t miss this opportunity to dive into Dr. Heptulla’s remarkable story and insights!
For more information, please visit South Asia Institute’s website.