On the 27th of July 2024, the BALPP hosted an engaging workshop exploring the legacy of Edward Said, the renowned Palestinian-American scholar. The session, headed by eminent historians Dr. Shamara Wettimuny and Prof. Nira Wickramasinghe , offered a deep dive into Said’s critical contributions to postcolonial theory, literature, and historical narratives, highlighting the enduring impact of his ideas on contemporary cultural and historical critique.

The workshop also explored Said’s impact on historiography. It was discussed how Said’s work has influenced the study of historical narratives, particularly in writing history and prioritizing perspectives. The workshop drew a diverse audience, including students, scholars, and enthusiasts. 

Unlike a typical lecture, the event began with resource people providing an introduction to Edward Said’s life, his work and his significant contributions to various fields. This set the stage for the rest of the program, which was dedicated to an interactive discussion between the resource people and the participants.