Shimla: Four books translated from Hindi into Malayalam were released at a one-day national seminar on translation held at the historic Gaiety Theatre on Friday. The event was organised by the Himalaya Sahitya Sanskriti evam Paryavaran Manch, Shimla, and brought together noted writers, critics and translators from Himachal Pradesh and Kerala.
The books include two novels — Nadi Rang Jaisi Ladki and Hidimb — and a short story collection by noted Himachali author S.R. Harnot, along with a poetry collection by Rajan Tanwar titled Koi Baandh Lo Mujhe. The translations were carried out by Prof. (Dr.) Sreelata Vishnu, Dr. Mohanan V.T.V. and Dr. Indu K.V., all of whom have also been fellows at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla.
The books were formally released by chief guest Hemant, editor-in-chief of Himachal Dastak, along with eminent critic Dr. Hemraj Kaushik and senior writer-translator Prof. Meenakshi F. Paul.
Addressing the gathering, Hemant congratulated both the authors and translators, stating that translation not only expands readership but also builds bridges between cultures, histories and regional identities. He lauded the organising मंच and S.R. Harnot for consistently promoting literature without reliance on grants, and for creating a platform for writers across generations.
Speakers Dr. Kaushik and Prof. Paul underlined the importance of translation in enriching literary exchange and thanked the Kerala-based translators for bringing Himachali literature to Malayalam readers. Prof. Paul noted that several of Harnot’s works have already gained international attention, including translations published in London, and that she is currently working on an English translation of Nadi Rang Jaisi Ladki.
The visiting translators shared that Harnot’s works are part of academic curricula in Kerala, and that a PhD on his writings was completed at Kerala University. They highlighted the growing popularity of his stories among students and readers, adding that these new translations would further strengthen literary ties between Himachal Pradesh and Kerala.
The session was conducted by poet and motivator Jagdish Bali, while writer Deepti Saraswat introduced the translators to the audience. More than 70 participants, including senior writers, young authors, students and literature enthusiasts, attended the seminar.
