North South University (NSU) School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) hosted a webinar, as part of the NSU SHSS Distinguished Webinar Series titled, “City Lives, Rural Ties: The Social Worlds of Middle Migrants in Contemporary India” on 10 March 2026, a press release said.
This discussion attracted a broad range of audience consisting of faculty members, students, and researchers interested in the dynamics of migration and social structures. The guest speaker for this session was Priti Ramamurthy, Professor of Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies at the University of Washington.
Professor Ramamurthy’s presentation delved into the dynamic social landscapes of “middle migrants” in India, exploring how individuals navigate the dualities of urban existence while maintaining deep-rooted connections to their rural origins. Moreover, her lecture examined the socio-economic pressures and cultural negotiations that define these migration patterns in the contemporary Indian context.
Md. Rizwanul Islam, Professor of Law and Dean of SHSS at NSU, provided the introductory remarks for the session. He highlighted the importance of understanding the human element within migration studies and noted how these social ties influence broader economic and legal frameworks in South Asia. Dr. Nazia Manzoor, Assistant Professor & Chair of the Department of English & Modern Languages at NSU, moderated the session.
During the Q&A segment, attendees engaged Professor Ramamurthy on various topics, including the gendered dimensions of middle migration, the impact of digital connectivity on rural ties, and the evolving identity of migrants within the rapidly changing urban landscape of India. The interactive exchange of ideas deeply enriched the webinar experience for all attendees.
