As a child who grew up in Dadar, one of the most densely populated localities in Mumbai, I developed a deep curiosity about the diverse motivations and pleasures driving human lives. The rich cinematic heritage of my locality, where India’s early silent films were created in the studios on the very streets I grew up on, further fuelled my interest in the capacity of human imagination and the urge for storytelling. As I became increasingly aware of the power of words and images in shaping, challenging and redefining societal norms, my fascination with the various modes of storytelling deepened. Today, as new digital technologies relentlessly transform how we consume information, the immediacy and breadth of digital content have revolutionized storytelling and content creation. These shifts have guided my academic journey— driving me to explore narrative construction, the silences within, and the power dynamics inherent in literature, films and digital media.
Following my formative years at the Dadar Parsee Youths Assembly High School, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in English Literature with Honours in History at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai. In addition to a B.Ed. and a diploma in event management, I earned a master’s degree in English Literature and Cultural Studies at the University of Mumbai, with a transformative stint at the University of Magdeburg through a short exchange program. This move was a significant milestone for me. It made me the first-generation woman in my family to pursue education abroad, shaping both my personal and professional trajectory in myriad ways. I then accomplished a Ph.D. in English Philology, fully funded by the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), and co-supervised by the University of Münster and the University of Mumbai. As a researcher and educator, I have held positions at various institutions in India and Germany, contributing to projects supported by the European Union’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, the European Research Council, and the DFG (German Research Foundation).
Of all my academic endeavours, teaching holds a special place in my heart. I suppose I have been fortunate to have both diligent students and many inspiring educators in my life who have shaped my professional journey. Beyond academia, I nurture a passion for travel and all kinds of meticulously handcrafted work. As a hobby, I indulge in candid photography and capture moments that inspire poetic compositions. Besides, as an immigrant navigating the intricacies of settling in Germany and a mother raising a toddler in this new environment, I have chosen to share my insights and experiences through the blog section on my website. So, stay tuned for updates!
Dr. Jayana Jain 