ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Teaching Sarojini Naidu in the 21st Century: A Pedagogical Perspective

In an era defined by rapid socio-political transformations, digital learning, and evolving feminist and postcolonial discourses, the teaching of canonical Indian writers like Sarojini Naidu requires critical re-evaluation. This article, "Teaching Sarojini Naidu in the 21st Century: A Pedagogical Perspective," explores innovative approaches to recontextualizing Naidu’s literary and political contributions within contemporary academic frameworks. Often confined to romantic or nationalist readings, Naidu's writings—both poetic and political—offer fertile ground for interdisciplinary teaching strategies that align with present-day concerns such as gender justice, cultural identity, environmental awareness, and decolonial thinking. The article proposes that Naidu’s lyrical poetry, political speeches, and activist ethos can be used to foster critical inquiry in literature, history, and gender studies classrooms. By analyzing selected poems and prose alongside modern critical theories—such as postcolonial feminism, ecocriticism, and cultural studies—this study outlines how Naidu’s texts can be mobilized to challenge hegemonic narratives and inspire student engagement with questions of voice, identity, and resistance. It also reflects on the role of technology in revitalizing her work through digital humanities, multimedia pedagogy, and online archives. Drawing on classroom experiences, curriculum design, and student feedback, the article ultimately advocates for a more dynamic and dialogic pedagogy that honors Naidu’s legacy while making her work relevant to a new generation. In doing so, it invites educators to move beyond static textbook portrayals and embrace Sarojini Naidu as a vibrant figure whose life and literature continue to offer meaningful insights into the challenges and possibilities of the 21st century.