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B-A-HONS in Persian at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Persian at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This Persian program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on developing comprehensive linguistic and literary proficiency in Persian. It delves into classical and modern Persian language, literature, culture, and history, offering a deep understanding of its rich heritage and contemporary relevance in India and globally. The program emphasizes advanced linguistic skills and cultural appreciation, bridging historical ties.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in humanities, languages, and cultures, particularly those fascinated by the rich Indo-Persian legacy. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in academia, cultural diplomacy, translation, or international relations, seeking a solid foundation in a strategically important language for India''''s foreign policy.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates gain fluency in Persian, critical analytical skills for literary texts, and profound cultural acumen. Career paths in India include diplomacy, research, archival work, media, tourism, and as language experts in government and private sectors. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-6 lakhs, with growth trajectories leading to senior translation or cultural attaché roles within Indian organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immersive Language Practice- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all grammar and functional Persian classes. Supplement with daily practice using language learning apps (e.g., Duolingo, Memrise for basic vocabulary) and watching simple Persian cartoons or news clips to develop listening comprehension. Focus on perfecting pronunciation.
Tools & Resources
Language learning apps, JNU library resources, Persian short stories for beginners, Online Persian news channels
Career Connection
Builds a strong linguistic base crucial for all future studies and professional communication, ensuring confidence in basic interactions.
Cultural Immersion through Media- (Semester 1-2)
Explore Persian cinema, music, and simple literary texts introduced in class. Engage with Indian historical content related to Indo-Persian culture to contextualize language learning. Attend cultural festivals and events in Delhi linked to Persian culture.
Tools & Resources
YouTube channels for Persian media, JNU''''s cultural events calendar, Indian cultural institutions with Persian connections like Iran Culture House
Career Connection
Enhances cultural sensitivity and understanding, vital for roles in diplomacy, cultural exchange, and international relations, making graduates more adept at cross-cultural communication.
Peer-to-Peer Language Exchange- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers for regular conversation practice, focusing on topics from daily life and course material. Organize informal discussions to practice basic dialogues and vocabulary. Participate in JNU''''s student clubs focused on languages or international relations.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, JNU''''s student clubs and associations, Online collaborative tools for language practice
Career Connection
Improves conversational fluency and confidence, essential for direct communication in professional settings and fosters teamwork skills.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Classical Texts- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond classroom readings, dedicate time to reading and analyzing classical Persian prose and poetry (e.g., selections from Saadi, Hafez) with faculty guidance. Focus on understanding historical context, literary devices, and philosophical underpinnings. Participate in literary discussions.
Tools & Resources
Annotated editions of classical texts, JNU faculty consultations, Online literary databases and academic journals
Career Connection
Develops advanced analytical and critical thinking skills, crucial for academic research, literary translation, and cultural commentary roles in India and abroad.
Skill Enhancement Electives for Practical Application- (Semester 3-5)
Actively choose and engage with Skill Enhancement Courses like Computer Applications or Translation Practice. Seek out opportunities for practical application, such as translating short news articles, cultural documents, or assisting local NGOs with Persian content.
Tools & Resources
Translation software (e.g., SDL Trados for practice), Official documents for translation exercises, JNU''''s language labs and computer facilities
Career Connection
Directly equips students with marketable skills like translation, interpretation, and digital literacy, highly valued in corporate, government, and media sectors in India.
Networking & Seminar Participation- (Semester 3-5)
Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the Centre of Persian and Central Asian Studies or other JNU departments. Network with faculty, visiting scholars, and professionals in related fields like diplomacy, media, and academia. Present your ideas in student forums.
Tools & Resources
JNU event calendars, Academic conferences and workshops, Professional associations related to language and international affairs
Career Connection
Expands professional network, opens doors to mentorship, research collaborations, and future career opportunities within the Indian and international spheres.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Undertake a comprehensive research project or dissertation in your final year (Semester 6) on a chosen aspect of Persian language, literature, or culture, preferably with an Indo-Persian focus. This allows for in-depth specialization and demonstrates academic rigor.
Tools & Resources
JNU library extensive resources (manuscripts, rare books), Faculty supervisors and mentors, Academic writing and research methodology workshops
Career Connection
Provides strong research credentials, essential for pursuing higher studies (M.A., Ph.D.) or specialized research roles in think tanks, universities, or cultural institutions in India.
Targeted Internship and Professional Exposure- (Semester 6)
Actively seek internships at relevant organizations such as cultural centers (e.g., Iran Culture House, Ghalib Institute), embassies, media houses (e.g., Doordarshan International), or NGOs. Apply learned language and cultural skills in a real-world professional environment to gain practical experience.
Tools & Resources
JNU career services and placement cells, Online job portals for internships (e.g., Internshala), Direct outreach to diplomatic missions and cultural organizations
Career Connection
Gains invaluable practical work experience, builds a professional resume, and often leads to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations for entry-level positions.
Career Pathway Planning & Interview Preparation- (Semester 6)
Engage in career counseling sessions to identify specific career paths (e.g., civil services, foreign service, academia, translation). Prepare diligently for competitive exams or job interviews, focusing on showcasing language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and analytical skills relevant to India''''s global engagement.
Tools & Resources
JNU career counseling cell, Mock interviews and group discussions, Current affairs updates related to India''''s foreign policy and cultural diplomacy
Career Connection
Streamlines the transition from academia to professional life, increasing chances of securing desired employment and successfully navigating competitive selection processes in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Senior School Certificate (10+2) or equivalent examination with minimum of 45% marks. Admission through Common University Entrance Test (UG) conducted by NTA.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 104 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Mix of Continuous Assessment (mid-semester tests, assignments, presentations), External: Mix of End-Semester Examinations
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PER C 101 | Essentials of Persian Grammar-I | Core | 4 | Alphabets and Pronunciation, Vowels and Consonants, Nouns: Gender, Number, Case, Pronouns: Personal, Demonstrative, Basic Sentence Structure and Articles, Adjectives and Prepositions |
| PER C 102 | Introduction to Persian Language and Literature-I | Core | 4 | History of Persian Language, Evolution of Persian Script, Classical and Modern Persian, Basic Prose and Poetry Forms, Introduction to Reading Comprehension, Cultural Context of Persian Language |
| PER C 103 | Functional Persian-I | Core | 4 | Everyday Greetings and Introductions, Vocabulary for Daily Situations, Simple Dialogue Practice, Basic Phrases and Expressions, Self-Introduction and Family, Asking and Giving Directions |
| AECC 101 | Environmental Studies / English (Choice) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Environmental Concepts and Ecosystems, Natural Resources and Conservation, Pollution and Climate Change, Environmental Ethics OR English Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Basic Writing Skills and Communication |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PER C 201 | Essentials of Persian Grammar-II | Core | 4 | Verbs: Tenses and Conjugations, Imperatives and Prohibition, Adverbs and Conjunctions, Prepositions and Postpositions, Simple and Compound Sentences, Passive Voice Formation |
| PER C 202 | Introduction to Persian Language and Literature-II | Core | 4 | Early Persian Literary Figures, Classical Prose Texts and Folk Tales, Historical Narratives and Legends, Advanced Reading Comprehension, Literary Devices and Forms, Socio-cultural Heritage |
| PER C 203 | Functional Persian-II | Core | 4 | Everyday Communication Skills, Formal and Informal Expressions, Letter Writing and Email Basics, Paragraph Writing and Description, Narrating Simple Stories, Expressing Opinions and Feelings |
| GE 201 | Generic Elective (Student''''s Choice from University List) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PER C 301 | Persian Grammar-III | Core | 4 | Complex Grammatical Structures, Idiomatic Expressions and Proverbs, Syntax and Sentence Analysis, Derivational and Inflectional Morphology, Figurative Language and Rhetoric, Nuances of Persian Grammar |
| PER C 302 | Classical Persian Prose | Core | 4 | Study of Major Prose Works (e.g., Kalila wa Dimna), Analysis of Gulistan of Saadi, Stylistic Features of Classical Prose, Rhetorical Devices in Prose, Historical Context of Prose Development, Critical Appreciation of Classical Texts |
| PER C 303 | Introduction to Persian Poetry-I | Core | 4 | Forms of Persian Poetry: Ghazal, Qasida, Mathnavi and Rubai, Major Classical Poets: Rumi, Hafez, Saadi, Poetic Devices: Rhyme, Meter, Imagery, Analytical Appreciation of Poetic Themes, Introduction to Sufi Poetry |
| PER SEC 301 | Computer Application/Calligraphy (Choice) | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 4 | Basics of Computer Operation, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet Usage and Email Communication, Information Retrieval OR History of Persian Calligraphy, Different Calligraphic Styles (Nastaliq, Shikasteh), Practical Calligraphy Exercises |
| PER VAC 301 | Indian Literary Heritage in Persian | Value Added Course (VAC) | 4 | Persian Literature in India, Contribution of Indian Scholars to Persian, Literary Movements in Indo-Persian Context, Indo-Persian Cultural Exchange, Major Indian Poets and Writers in Persian, Influence on Local Languages |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PER C 401 | Persian Grammar-IV | Core | 4 | Advanced Syntactic Analysis, Translation Techniques and Challenges, Stylistics in Persian, Dialectal Variations and Regional Influences, Historical Linguistics of Persian, Comparative Grammar Aspects |
| PER C 402 | Classical Persian Poetry | Core | 4 | In-depth Study of Major Poetic Forms, Works of Prominent Classical Poets, Critical Analysis of Poetic Themes, Sufi and Mystical Poetry, Epic Poetry (e.g., Shahnameh excerpts), Literary and Cultural Significance |
| PER C 403 | Modern Persian Prose | Core | 4 | Evolution of Modern Persian Prose, Short Stories and Novels, Modern Drama and Plays, Literary Movements in Contemporary Iran, Major Modern Writers and Works, Translation Exercises of Modern Texts |
| PER SEC 402 | Translation Practice/Advanced Calligraphy (Choice) | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 4 | Principles and Theories of Translation, Practical Translation: Persian to English/Hindi, Interpretation Skills, Textual Analysis for Translation, Types of Translation: Literary, Technical OR Advanced Calligraphy Techniques, Mastery of Different Scripts, Artistic Application and Design |
| PER VAC 402 | Value Added Course (Student''''s Choice from University List) | Value Added Course (VAC) | 4 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PER C 501 | Functional Persian-III | Core | 4 | Official and Business Correspondence, Report Writing and Documentation, Media Analysis and Journalistic Language, Public Speaking and Presentation in Persian, Negotiation and Diplomatic Language, Professional Communication Skills |
| PER C 502 | Modern Persian Poetry | Core | 4 | Nimaic Poetry and Free Verse, Contemporary Trends and Movements, Major Modern Poets and Their Works, Symbolism and Allegory in Modern Poetry, Post-Revolutionary Poetry, Critical Appreciation of Modern Poetic Forms |
| PER DSE 501 | History of Persian Literature (6th to 10th Century A.D.) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Early Literary History of Persian, Samanid and Ghaznavid Periods, Major Literary Works and Figures, Socio-Political and Cultural Context, Influence on Regional Literatures, Development of Poetic and Prose Traditions |
| PER DSE 502 | Advanced Translation & Interpretation | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Theories and Models of Translation, Consecutive and Simultaneous Interpretation, Technical and Legal Translation, Cultural Nuances in Translation, Ethical Considerations for Translators, Practical Interpretation Exercises |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PER C 601 | Applied Persian | Core | 4 | Journalistic Writing and Reporting, Media and Communication in Persian, Persian for Tourism and Hospitality, Cultural Etiquette and Protocol, Practical Application in Professional Settings, Public Relations and Diplomacy |
| PER C 602 | Literary Criticism in Persian | Core | 4 | Principles of Literary Criticism, Classical and Modern Critical Theories, Application to Persian Texts, Comparative Literature, Aesthetics and Poetics, Schools of Literary Criticism |
| PER DSE 601 | History of Persian Literature (11th to 15th Century A.D.) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Seljuk and Mongol Periods, Flourishing of Sufi Literature, Key Poets and Prose Writers, Impact of Historical Events on Literature, Literary Criticism Developments of the Era, Court Literature and Patronage |
| PER DSE 602 | Persian in India | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | History of Persian Language in India, Mughal Period and Its Influence, Contribution of Indian Scholars to Persian, Indo-Persian Cultural Synthesis, Modern Relevance of Persian in India, Archival Studies and Manuscripts |
