Translations and Film Screening Highlight National Seminar
Shimla/ Kerala , March 27, 2026:
A three-day national seminar organized by the Department of Hindi at Kerala University from March 24 to 26, 2026, concluded with several notable highlights, including the felicitation of eminent author S.R. Harnot, a screening of the film Keel, and the release of Malayalam translations of his literary works.
The seminar, themed “The Role of Translation in Indian Literature,” featured S.R. Harnot as the Chief Guest during the inaugural session. Addressing the gathering, Harnot spoke extensively about his three works translated into Malayalam—Hidimb, Nadi Rang Jaisi Ladki, and Bhagadevi Ka Chayghar. He emphasized that translation acts as a bridge between languages, enabling a deeper understanding of diverse histories, cultures, and geographies.
Harnot expressed gratitude for the affection and recognition he received in Kerala, comparing it to his home state, Himachal Pradesh. He also highlighted that Kerala has played a significant role in his literary journey, as the first PhD on his work was conducted at University College, Kerala University, in 2012. He further noted that his stories have been included in academic curricula at various levels in Kerala.
The event was attended by Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Mohanan Kunnummal, Head of the Hindi Department Prof. Herman, Senior Professor Dr. R. Jayachandran, and other distinguished faculty members. The Vice-Chancellor thanked Harnot for his presence and contribution.
Dr. Indu K.V., Associate Professor, informed that the Malayalam translation of Harnot’s novel Hidimb was carried out by noted translator Dr. Mohanan V.T.V. and published by Samayam Books. The translation of Bhagadevi Ka Chayghar was done by Dr. Indu K.V., while Nadi Rang Jaisi Ladki was translated by Prof. (Dr.) Srilata Vishnu.
On the second day, a film titled Keel, based on Harnot’s acclaimed story “Keelen,” directed and produced by actor Aryan Harnot, was screened. The film received an emotional response from the audience, followed by an interactive session with students and faculty.
The seminar concluded with a valedictory session, where S.R. Harnot was again present as the Chief Guest. On this occasion, Prof. (Dr.) S.R. Jayashree of the Hindi Department was felicitated on her retirement, and students presented a cultural program in her honour.
Dr. Indu K.V. also shared that the Malayalam translations of Harnot’s works will soon be formally released in Shimla by writers and translators from Kerala.
The seminar was effectively anchored by research scholar Anuja, who provided insightful remarks throughout the session.
