Remembering Professor Sajni Mukherjee Kriplani: A Teacher Who Taught Beyond Books
Kolkata, May 2025 — Jadavpur University fondly remembers Professor Sajni Mukherjee Kriplani, a legendary figure in the university’s academic and cultural life, whose contributions extended far beyond the classroom. From 1976 to 2007, Professor Kriplani was a pillar of the English Department at Jadavpur University, shaping generations of students with her incisive intellect, engaging wit, and passionate commitment to social equity and human values.
Affectionately known as “Sajnidi,” Professor Kriplani brought literature alive not just through words but through her ability to connect literature with her students' lived experiences. Her teaching style blended academic rigor with humor, critical thought, and a profound sense of empathy, creating a lasting impact that went beyond the syllabus.
A Champion of Accessible Education
One of Professor Kriplani’s most enduring contributions was her pioneering work in accessible education for visually impaired students. She established one of India’s first Braille libraries at Jadavpur University and developed a series of audio lectures and resources for blind and low-vision learners. These initiatives positioned the university as a national leader in academic inclusivity and remain a benchmark for institutions across India.
Activism in Academia
True to the spirit of a public intellectual, Professor Kriplani was deeply involved in social and political activism. She stood firmly against the Iraq War, using her platform as a professor to foster awareness and civic responsibility among students. Her activism also extended to consumer and environmental consciousness—she famously led a campus-wide boycott of Coca-Cola, advocating for traditional, healthier drink alternatives and initiating conversations on sustainability and ethics.
More Than a Mentor
To her students, Sajnidi was more than an educator—she was a confidante, a role model, and a fierce believer in the power of young minds. She championed values of compassion, honesty, and critical inquiry, urging her students to engage with the world as thoughtful, responsible citizens.
A Legacy That Endures
Professor Sajni Mukherjee Kriplani's legacy continues to inspire not only the faculty and alumni of Jadavpur University but also educators across the country. Her life is a reminder that teaching is not just about knowledge transmission but also about building character, nurturing empathy, and standing up for what’s right.
As Jadavpur University reflects on her extraordinary life, her contributions to inclusive education, progressive pedagogy, and activist scholarship serve as a beacon for current and future generations.
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About Jadavpur University
Located in Kolkata, India, Jadavpur University is a premier institution recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and progressive thought. It fosters an inclusive academic environment committed to creativity, critical thinking, and social responsibility.
