World literature makes reader global citizen: Eminent translator

World literature is a platform that transcends religion, class and ideology, creating a common human thought and making the reader a global citizen. These views were expressed by eminent translator and writer Jang Bahadur Goyal, keynote speaker at a seminar on ‘Relevance of World Literature’ organised by Sahitya Akademi, Delhi, in collaboration with the Department of Languages.

The seminar, held under the leadership of noted novelist Buta Singh Chauhan, was presided over by Director, Department of Languages, Jaswant Singh Zafar, while eminent critic Dr Labh Singh Khiva was present as the special guest.

In his address, Goyal said while no single language can be read, written and spoken across the globe, masterpieces from around the world can reach every corner through translation. He observed that world literature makes readers aware of diverse cultures, civilisations and environments, creating “parallel worlds” whose characters guide people through the difficult valleys of life.

“That is why world literature is considered the heritage of humanity,” he added. Goyal also lamented that many historical atrocities have not yet been depicted in Punjabi literature through any masterpiece.

In his presidential remarks, Zafar said Goyal’s translation work has simplified language, making world literature accessible and popular. “A writer is a user of language, while a translator is the servant of two languages,” he said, adding that world-class literature has also been created in the region but has often been confined due to religious and cultural restrictions.

The seminar also saw interaction between Goyal and prominent literary personalities, including Lakshmi Narayan Bhikhi, Avtarjit, Inderpal Singh, Dharam Kameana and former police officer Sukhdev Singh Virk, making the event multifaceted. The stage was conducted by Research Officer Dr Sukhdarshan Singh Chahal.

Buta Singh Chauhan, who moderated the seminar, extended thanks and highlighted the activities and achievements of Sahitya Akademi.

Among those present were Assistant Director Jaspreet Kaur, Surinder Kaur, research officers Dr Santokh Sukhi and Satpal Singh, Shiromani poet Balwinder Sandhu, Paramjit Mann, Lachhman Das, Raman Sandhu, Gurcharan Pabrali, poets Navdeep Mundi, Gopal Sharma, Harpreet Sandhu and a large number of literature enthusiasts.