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Khushi Mohunta

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People are just as extraordinary as they believe themselves to be. Every human is a walking house to stories, and scrounging for those stories is a search - one should never cease. On this premise, I founded The Khushi’s Pen in 2019, intending to give voice to the untold expressions kindling within me. The subsequent years have been a roller-coaster of highs and lows, successes, and failures.

As the author of 'Waist Number 42,' I strongly believe that stories have the power to transform, connect and inspire people all over the world. I am not interested in the conventional notion of beauty; I’m intrigued by the stories that are smirked in scars, mistakes, and failures. These are stories with character and it is these that I want to hear. Making these stories matter is what I try to do every single day.

My prior experience in mainstream media, particularly in wedding and parenting magazines, has equipped me with an understanding of how we build stories, and stories build us. I rely on those learnings to improve and channel myself to be a better professional and create a business that makes a difference (in the most realistic and sustainable way).

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Papers by Khushi Mohunta

Choice or Coercion? Marxist Feminism and the Reality of Sex Work in House of Pleasures

Marxist feminism historicizes reproduction with the idea of production to understand women's expl... more Marxist feminism historicizes reproduction with the idea of production to understand women's exploitation and oppression in a capitalist society. House of Pleasures (also known as House of Tolerance and L'Apollonide: Souvenirs de la maison close) is a 2011 French drama directed by Bertrand Bonello. Premised on Marxism, it revolves around pleasure, the use value, and money, exchange value. Through a Marxist Feminism lens, House of Pleasures explores the economic pressures that limit women's choices, ultimately revealing the brothel system as a microcosm of capitalist exploitation where women's bodies become commodities.

The Role of Historical Trauma and Memory in The God of Small Things and South Haven

This paper examines the role of historical trauma and memory in shaping the lives and identities ... more This paper examines the role of historical trauma and memory in shaping the lives and identities of the characters in The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy and South Haven by Hirsh Sawhney. Both novels explore the inter-generational effects of historical trauma on individuals and communities through the lenses of colonialism, caste, and racism. The paper focuses on the journeys of Rahel Ipe and Siddharth Arora, who struggle to cope with the loss of their loved ones and the impact of their cultural backgrounds on their present realities. The paper argues that both novels demonstrate the need to confront and address trauma to heal and progress, as well as the importance of listening to the voices of the silenced or marginalized. The paper also analyzes the narrative techniques and literary devices used by the authors to convey the complexities of historical trauma and memory. The paper concludes by highlighting the relevance and significance of these novels in raising awareness and empathy about the enduring effects of history on our lives and identities.

The Critical Role of Animals and Non-Humans in Children’s Literature

This paper underscores children’s literature classics as they employ non-human elements to challe... more This paper underscores children’s literature classics as they employ non-human elements to challenge societal norms, depict the consequences of unbridled curiosity, and navigate the uncharted territory of the unknown. Through the lens of defamiliarization, these narratives prompt critical reflection in young readers, emphasizing their potential as powerful tools for conveying anti-capitalist, anti-communist, and anti-racialist perspectives. This paper builds on insights and reflections from Margaret and H.A. Rey’s “Curious George” and E. Nesbit’s “Five Children and It” in using non-human characters and elements to subvert conventional societal norms to foster a nuanced understanding of the world and encourage readers to question and critique them. It also critically examines the portrayal of animals and the non-human world in children’s literature, primarily through a comparative analysis of “Curious George” and “Five Children and It.”

Pride and Prejudice Reimagined: The Lizzie Bennet Diaries on Screen

The paper titled "Pride and Prejudice Reimagined: The Lizzie Bennet Diaries on Screen" explores t... more The paper titled "Pride and Prejudice Reimagined: The Lizzie Bennet Diaries on Screen" explores the process of adaptation and its impact while re-interpreting Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice into a modern American web series. The essay analyzes changes during the adaptation process, such as the use of modern storytelling techniques, transposing the original letter format into a video blog, and the use of social media as the primary means of communication. This adaptation retains fundamental principles from the novel while also exploring modern-day themes related to gender roles, relationships, social class, and technology. The paper highlights the role of strong female characters in the series, their independence, agency, and refusal to conform to traditional gender roles. The adaptation amplifies and updates the original work's themes and highlights different perspectives and societal pressure surrounding relationships, such as marriage.

The essay critically evaluates the changes brought about during the adaptation and the effectiveness of using modern storytelling techniques to convey classic literature. It argues that the Lizzie Bennet Diaries reimagines the original text by building on socio-political commentary and highlighting the power of technology in perpetuating class divisions. The paper concludes that the adaptation adds to the original work’s authenticity while also making it relatable and pertinent to contemporary audiences. Overall, the paper provides an insightful analysis of the adaptation process and the impact it can have on storytelling and modern-day themes.

Unveiling Inequalities and Challenges: An Ethnographic Exploration of Dipalpur

This paper presents an ethnographic exploration of the socio-cultural, economic, and educational ... more This paper presents an ethnographic exploration of the socio-cultural, economic, and educational context of rural life in Dipalpur, India. The primary focus is on examining the impact of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and exploring the experiences of students, teachers, and the community. By employing a combination of participatory and observatory observations, informal interviews, and analysis of primary and secondary sources of information, this study sheds light on the availability and accessibility of education in the village. The paper highlights the necessity of adopting an inclusive and equitable approach to education to address the existing challenges and limitations. Overall, this research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape in Dipalpur and provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers working towards improving rural education.

Keywords: ethnography, rural education, New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, inclusivity, socio-cultural context, economic disparities, educational challenges, student experiences, teacher perspectives, community engagement.

Unveiling the Paradox: Digital Temptations and the Cruel Optimism of Ideal Living

This paper explores the intricate relationship between digital technologies and the concept of cr... more This paper explores the intricate relationship between digital technologies and the concept of cruel optimism in our pursuit of an ideal life. It examines how individuals construct an idealized image of themselves through curated online personas and pseudo-identity, perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and further creating a paradox of attainment through aspirational selfies. The article also looks into the role of social media and wired networks in shaping behavior, identities, and interpersonal relationships, and how connectivity has become a fundamental craving in today's world. Lauren Berlant's concept of cruel optimism highlights how people's attachment to a particular ideal can be characterized as "cruel" because it can ultimately cause harm yet remains appealing. The paper concludes by discussing the frustration that often arises from chasing an elusive goal inherent in the digital narrative. Overall, this paper provides insights into the challenges and complexities of living in a digitally dominated era and encourages critical reflection on the intertwined nature of digital technologies and the pursuit of the ideal life.

Whispers of the Unseen: Exploring Surreal Depths in Hôtels

The paper explores the impact of surrealism in the literature, focusing on Philippe Soupault's po... more The paper explores the impact of surrealism in the literature, focusing on Philippe Soupault's poem "Hôtels." Surrealism, as an artistic and literary movement, delves into hidden meanings and challenges societal norms. The analysis delves into the transient nature of human lives as portrayed in "Hôtels," questioning whether individuals truly live their own lives or if it is a "rented" existence. The poem draws parallels between human life and hotels, presenting them as spaces where individuals check in, spend money, and confront the influence of capitalist currency. The metaphor of "capital worms" reflects the impact of capitalist society on hotels and individuals, highlighting the degradation of resources and the associated sadness. The imagery of "blue" against the starlight from open windows conveys a sense of gloom and confinement, symbolizing the struggle to escape the constraints of capitalist society. The analysis also delves into the linguistic and stylistic elements of the poem, emphasizing the use of surrealistic imagery and metaphors to create dreamlike landscapes that challenge conventional syntax and linear thought processes. The text's irregular rhythm and meter mirror the spontaneous nature of automatic writing, revealing buried thoughts from the unconscious. Overall, the critical abstract provides insights into the surrealist exploration of the human experience and the influence of capitalist society through the lens of Soupault's "Hôtels."

Beyond Words and Worlds- Linguistic Explorations and Gender Dynamics in Arrival

The film "Arrival" delves into the intricate interplay between language, perception, and gender d... more The film "Arrival" delves into the intricate interplay between language, perception, and gender dynamics, showcasing how language serves as a potent tool to challenge societal norms and pre-conceived notions. Through the lens of the lead linguist, Louise Banks, the movie portrays the sexism and gender barriers she faces, emphasizing the power dynamics inherent in societal structures. It also explores the relationship between science, language, and power dynamics, drawing parallels between colonial encounters and interactions with the alien species in the film. The narrative prompts viewers to reflect on the complexities of human interactions and the ramifications of unchecked biases, highlighting the importance of effective communication in addressing global issues and fostering mutual understanding. "Arrival" uses the science fiction genre as a metaphor to explore real-world issues, encouraging a nuanced exploration of how language shapes our perceptions and interactions with others. The film challenges cultural predispositions by depicting an otherworldly language, urging a re-evaluation of biases ingrained in communication systems.

A Snapshot of the Rural Life- Exploring the Social and Cultural Fabric of Dipalpur

This paper provides a detailed account of a field study conducted in Dipalpur, Sonipat, focusing ... more This paper provides a detailed account of a field study conducted in Dipalpur, Sonipat, focusing on various aspects of rural life in India. The research delves into the educational practices, community dynamics, and healthcare services in the village, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities present in the rural setting. Through observations, interviews, and reflections, the study highlights the role of Anganwadi and ASHA workers, the educational environment in Dipalpur Primary School, and the societal perceptions towards education and gender roles. The findings underscore the need for enhanced resources, support, and coordination to address the existing challenges and promote equitable development in rural India. This paper serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of rural life and advocating for impactful policies and programs to uplift rural communities.

Women Artists of the Renaissance Defying Gender Norms and Redefying the Role of Women in Arts

Mohunta 1 Khushi Mohunta Women Artists of the Renaissance: Defying Gender Norms and Redefying the... more Mohunta 1 Khushi Mohunta Women Artists of the Renaissance: Defying Gender Norms and Redefying the Role of Women in Arts In a time when society restricted their roles and silenced their voices, women of the Renaissance dared to create, inspire, and challenge the status quo through their art. Their courage and creativity paved the way for future generations of female artists and remind us that true artistic talent knows no gender. The Renaissance period in Europe, from the 14 th to the 17 th century, witnessed remarkable advancements in art, culture, and society. While the achievements of male artists, philosophers, and scientists are often celebrated, the contributions of women during this

The State of Colour - Exploring Racism in Black Women's Sexuality in America through Cora Unashamed

Human history is stained with the enforced supremacy of white people over black people. For centu... more Human history is stained with the enforced supremacy of white people over black people. For centuries, racial discrimination has objectified people from the Black community, considering them beneath society. Despite this mutual hatred, mutual love triumphs in such a
society. Langston Hughes’ short story, Cora Unashamed, delves into racially distinct relationships and how society affects them. Hughes’ text is a kaleidoscope that analyses the factors that influenced black women’s sexuality and the way it was perceived in America. How does one go back from loathing to love? Is it possible for the victim to love someone who
previously hated them? The story analyses such questions and their relationship to history and people through the text. It explores the themes of love as influenced by race and seeks to understand its effect on people. This essay explores how the manifestations of racism and racial
segregation have played a key role in the expression of black women’s sexuality in America.

Bullies, Bullying, and Power in the Context of Schooling

Bullies, Bullying and Power in the Context of Schooling I have always found it fascinating how so... more Bullies, Bullying and Power in the Context of Schooling I have always found it fascinating how society extols body positivity and acceptance of different body kinds, but when it comes down to it, the ideal supermodel figure form reigns supreme. It has always been obsessed with slimness over skillset. Then, be it anything

Choice or Coercion? Marxist Feminism and the Reality of Sex Work in House of Pleasures

Marxist feminism historicizes reproduction with the idea of production to understand women's expl... more Marxist feminism historicizes reproduction with the idea of production to understand women's exploitation and oppression in a capitalist society. House of Pleasures (also known as House of Tolerance and L'Apollonide: Souvenirs de la maison close) is a 2011 French drama directed by Bertrand Bonello. Premised on Marxism, it revolves around pleasure, the use value, and money, exchange value. Through a Marxist Feminism lens, House of Pleasures explores the economic pressures that limit women's choices, ultimately revealing the brothel system as a microcosm of capitalist exploitation where women's bodies become commodities.

The Role of Historical Trauma and Memory in The God of Small Things and South Haven

This paper examines the role of historical trauma and memory in shaping the lives and identities ... more This paper examines the role of historical trauma and memory in shaping the lives and identities of the characters in The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy and South Haven by Hirsh Sawhney. Both novels explore the inter-generational effects of historical trauma on individuals and communities through the lenses of colonialism, caste, and racism. The paper focuses on the journeys of Rahel Ipe and Siddharth Arora, who struggle to cope with the loss of their loved ones and the impact of their cultural backgrounds on their present realities. The paper argues that both novels demonstrate the need to confront and address trauma to heal and progress, as well as the importance of listening to the voices of the silenced or marginalized. The paper also analyzes the narrative techniques and literary devices used by the authors to convey the complexities of historical trauma and memory. The paper concludes by highlighting the relevance and significance of these novels in raising awareness and empathy about the enduring effects of history on our lives and identities.

The Critical Role of Animals and Non-Humans in Children’s Literature

This paper underscores children’s literature classics as they employ non-human elements to challe... more This paper underscores children’s literature classics as they employ non-human elements to challenge societal norms, depict the consequences of unbridled curiosity, and navigate the uncharted territory of the unknown. Through the lens of defamiliarization, these narratives prompt critical reflection in young readers, emphasizing their potential as powerful tools for conveying anti-capitalist, anti-communist, and anti-racialist perspectives. This paper builds on insights and reflections from Margaret and H.A. Rey’s “Curious George” and E. Nesbit’s “Five Children and It” in using non-human characters and elements to subvert conventional societal norms to foster a nuanced understanding of the world and encourage readers to question and critique them. It also critically examines the portrayal of animals and the non-human world in children’s literature, primarily through a comparative analysis of “Curious George” and “Five Children and It.”

Pride and Prejudice Reimagined: The Lizzie Bennet Diaries on Screen

The paper titled "Pride and Prejudice Reimagined: The Lizzie Bennet Diaries on Screen" explores t... more The paper titled "Pride and Prejudice Reimagined: The Lizzie Bennet Diaries on Screen" explores the process of adaptation and its impact while re-interpreting Jane Austen’s classic novel Pride and Prejudice into a modern American web series. The essay analyzes changes during the adaptation process, such as the use of modern storytelling techniques, transposing the original letter format into a video blog, and the use of social media as the primary means of communication. This adaptation retains fundamental principles from the novel while also exploring modern-day themes related to gender roles, relationships, social class, and technology. The paper highlights the role of strong female characters in the series, their independence, agency, and refusal to conform to traditional gender roles. The adaptation amplifies and updates the original work's themes and highlights different perspectives and societal pressure surrounding relationships, such as marriage.

The essay critically evaluates the changes brought about during the adaptation and the effectiveness of using modern storytelling techniques to convey classic literature. It argues that the Lizzie Bennet Diaries reimagines the original text by building on socio-political commentary and highlighting the power of technology in perpetuating class divisions. The paper concludes that the adaptation adds to the original work’s authenticity while also making it relatable and pertinent to contemporary audiences. Overall, the paper provides an insightful analysis of the adaptation process and the impact it can have on storytelling and modern-day themes.

Unveiling Inequalities and Challenges: An Ethnographic Exploration of Dipalpur

This paper presents an ethnographic exploration of the socio-cultural, economic, and educational ... more This paper presents an ethnographic exploration of the socio-cultural, economic, and educational context of rural life in Dipalpur, India. The primary focus is on examining the impact of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and exploring the experiences of students, teachers, and the community. By employing a combination of participatory and observatory observations, informal interviews, and analysis of primary and secondary sources of information, this study sheds light on the availability and accessibility of education in the village. The paper highlights the necessity of adopting an inclusive and equitable approach to education to address the existing challenges and limitations. Overall, this research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape in Dipalpur and provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers working towards improving rural education.

Keywords: ethnography, rural education, New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, inclusivity, socio-cultural context, economic disparities, educational challenges, student experiences, teacher perspectives, community engagement.

Unveiling the Paradox: Digital Temptations and the Cruel Optimism of Ideal Living

This paper explores the intricate relationship between digital technologies and the concept of cr... more This paper explores the intricate relationship between digital technologies and the concept of cruel optimism in our pursuit of an ideal life. It examines how individuals construct an idealized image of themselves through curated online personas and pseudo-identity, perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and further creating a paradox of attainment through aspirational selfies. The article also looks into the role of social media and wired networks in shaping behavior, identities, and interpersonal relationships, and how connectivity has become a fundamental craving in today's world. Lauren Berlant's concept of cruel optimism highlights how people's attachment to a particular ideal can be characterized as "cruel" because it can ultimately cause harm yet remains appealing. The paper concludes by discussing the frustration that often arises from chasing an elusive goal inherent in the digital narrative. Overall, this paper provides insights into the challenges and complexities of living in a digitally dominated era and encourages critical reflection on the intertwined nature of digital technologies and the pursuit of the ideal life.

Whispers of the Unseen: Exploring Surreal Depths in Hôtels

The paper explores the impact of surrealism in the literature, focusing on Philippe Soupault's po... more The paper explores the impact of surrealism in the literature, focusing on Philippe Soupault's poem "Hôtels." Surrealism, as an artistic and literary movement, delves into hidden meanings and challenges societal norms. The analysis delves into the transient nature of human lives as portrayed in "Hôtels," questioning whether individuals truly live their own lives or if it is a "rented" existence. The poem draws parallels between human life and hotels, presenting them as spaces where individuals check in, spend money, and confront the influence of capitalist currency. The metaphor of "capital worms" reflects the impact of capitalist society on hotels and individuals, highlighting the degradation of resources and the associated sadness. The imagery of "blue" against the starlight from open windows conveys a sense of gloom and confinement, symbolizing the struggle to escape the constraints of capitalist society. The analysis also delves into the linguistic and stylistic elements of the poem, emphasizing the use of surrealistic imagery and metaphors to create dreamlike landscapes that challenge conventional syntax and linear thought processes. The text's irregular rhythm and meter mirror the spontaneous nature of automatic writing, revealing buried thoughts from the unconscious. Overall, the critical abstract provides insights into the surrealist exploration of the human experience and the influence of capitalist society through the lens of Soupault's "Hôtels."

Beyond Words and Worlds- Linguistic Explorations and Gender Dynamics in Arrival

The film "Arrival" delves into the intricate interplay between language, perception, and gender d... more The film "Arrival" delves into the intricate interplay between language, perception, and gender dynamics, showcasing how language serves as a potent tool to challenge societal norms and pre-conceived notions. Through the lens of the lead linguist, Louise Banks, the movie portrays the sexism and gender barriers she faces, emphasizing the power dynamics inherent in societal structures. It also explores the relationship between science, language, and power dynamics, drawing parallels between colonial encounters and interactions with the alien species in the film. The narrative prompts viewers to reflect on the complexities of human interactions and the ramifications of unchecked biases, highlighting the importance of effective communication in addressing global issues and fostering mutual understanding. "Arrival" uses the science fiction genre as a metaphor to explore real-world issues, encouraging a nuanced exploration of how language shapes our perceptions and interactions with others. The film challenges cultural predispositions by depicting an otherworldly language, urging a re-evaluation of biases ingrained in communication systems.

A Snapshot of the Rural Life- Exploring the Social and Cultural Fabric of Dipalpur

This paper provides a detailed account of a field study conducted in Dipalpur, Sonipat, focusing ... more This paper provides a detailed account of a field study conducted in Dipalpur, Sonipat, focusing on various aspects of rural life in India. The research delves into the educational practices, community dynamics, and healthcare services in the village, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities present in the rural setting. Through observations, interviews, and reflections, the study highlights the role of Anganwadi and ASHA workers, the educational environment in Dipalpur Primary School, and the societal perceptions towards education and gender roles. The findings underscore the need for enhanced resources, support, and coordination to address the existing challenges and promote equitable development in rural India. This paper serves as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of rural life and advocating for impactful policies and programs to uplift rural communities.

Women Artists of the Renaissance Defying Gender Norms and Redefying the Role of Women in Arts

Mohunta 1 Khushi Mohunta Women Artists of the Renaissance: Defying Gender Norms and Redefying the... more Mohunta 1 Khushi Mohunta Women Artists of the Renaissance: Defying Gender Norms and Redefying the Role of Women in Arts In a time when society restricted their roles and silenced their voices, women of the Renaissance dared to create, inspire, and challenge the status quo through their art. Their courage and creativity paved the way for future generations of female artists and remind us that true artistic talent knows no gender. The Renaissance period in Europe, from the 14 th to the 17 th century, witnessed remarkable advancements in art, culture, and society. While the achievements of male artists, philosophers, and scientists are often celebrated, the contributions of women during this

The State of Colour - Exploring Racism in Black Women's Sexuality in America through Cora Unashamed

Human history is stained with the enforced supremacy of white people over black people. For centu... more Human history is stained with the enforced supremacy of white people over black people. For centuries, racial discrimination has objectified people from the Black community, considering them beneath society. Despite this mutual hatred, mutual love triumphs in such a
society. Langston Hughes’ short story, Cora Unashamed, delves into racially distinct relationships and how society affects them. Hughes’ text is a kaleidoscope that analyses the factors that influenced black women’s sexuality and the way it was perceived in America. How does one go back from loathing to love? Is it possible for the victim to love someone who
previously hated them? The story analyses such questions and their relationship to history and people through the text. It explores the themes of love as influenced by race and seeks to understand its effect on people. This essay explores how the manifestations of racism and racial
segregation have played a key role in the expression of black women’s sexuality in America.

Bullies, Bullying, and Power in the Context of Schooling

Bullies, Bullying and Power in the Context of Schooling I have always found it fascinating how so... more Bullies, Bullying and Power in the Context of Schooling I have always found it fascinating how society extols body positivity and acceptance of different body kinds, but when it comes down to it, the ideal supermodel figure form reigns supreme. It has always been obsessed with slimness over skillset. Then, be it anything