Translations bring in fragrances of other cultures, languages
Translations of literary works in different languages and cultures help open a window to the fragrances of those languages and cultures.
This was stated by the Federal Minister for Education Shafqat Mahmood on Thursday while addressing an online seminar on the subject of “Translations of World Literature in the Punjabi Language”. The webinar had been organised by the Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL).
“Translations are a breath of fresh air for the Gulistan-e-Adab of any language and work as fresh blood for the body,” Mehmood said, adding that translations help adorn literature with the gems of other languages.
Moreover, it also ignites a rage in the mind and enhances the taste of readers and writers, thereby enhancing the understanding of life and develops a way of behaving, he said.
Punjabi literature, the education minister said, is very rich and fertile which started in the 12th century with the poetry of Baba Farid.
It is a fact that at every stage of the evolution of literature, translation and translators are at the forefront, he said.
He added that modern Punjabi literature is energetic, diverse and influential and is one of the foremost works of literature on the world literary scene, adding that translations are one of the most effective means to introduce fresh ideas into another language.
Outlining his definition of ‘translation’, the minister said that it represents an evolutionary process whereby knowledge of different civilizations, societies and cultures are transferred to another language as well as knowledge and arts and scholars are irrigated with new sources.
Mahmood said that through translation, positive attitudes and thoughts about historical consciousness and the continuous evolutionary process of history develop.
“Different civilizations, culture, history and civilization can be understood [through translated texts].”
PAL Chairman Dr Yousuf Khushk said that the importance of translation in the fields of literature and culture is clear. The translation of creative literature from one language to another helps associate closely with other civilizations.
He said that the regional languages of Pakistan offer a mirror to the national culture.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 24th, 2020.