Kurukshetra University hosts multilingual workshop to promote literary translation

A three-day Multilingual Translation Workshop commenced on Wednesday at Kurukshetra University (KU), organised by the Department of Punjabi in collaboration with the Sahitya Akademi, Delhi. The workshop aims to foster literary exchange and cultural understanding through translation across major Indian languages.

Speaking at the inaugural session, KU Vice-Chancellor Prof Som Nath Sachdeva said, “Translation is the key that unlocks the door to a language and its culture — regionally, nationally,and internationally. While AI tools assist the translation process with speed and precision, they cannot replicate the cultural nuances and emotional depth of human expression.”

The keynote address was delivered by Prof Ravel Singh, Convener of the Punjabi Advisory Board at the Sahitya Akademi, who announced that the workshop would culminate in the publication of 128 translated short stories compiled into eight books by the Akademi.

Presiding over the event, Sahitya Akademi President Dr Madhav Kaushik explained the distinction between translation and transcreation. “While both involve linguistic adaptation, transcreation goes further by creatively reshaping content to ensure cultural relevance and emotional resonance,” he said.

KU Registrar Virender Pal highlighted how English translations of South Indian writers have enabled wider readership and appreciation of regional literature. “Such efforts are vital for promoting linguistic diversity and mutual understanding,” he said.

Noted author Kesara Ram echoed this sentiment, saying translation serves as a bridge to other cultures, offering invaluable insight into different ways of life. Dr Kuldeep Singh, Chairperson of the Punjabi Department, outlined the structure of the three-day workshop and its focus on practical, collaborative translation sessions.

Dr Jimmy Sharma, Deputy Director of Public Relations at KU, informed that the workshop includes sessions on multiple Indian languages — Dogri, English, Hindi, Kashmiri, Punjabi, Rajasthani, Sanskrit and Urdu — bringing together scholars, writers, and translators from across the country.

The event marks a significant step in enriching Indian multilingual literature.