Volume III Special Issue III March 2023

Name of Author : Dr. Mahuya Bhaumik

Title of the paper : Dalit Literature and Translation: A Cross-Cultural Journey

Abstract: Sandra Bermann in Working in the And Zone Comparative Literature and Translation asserts that it is impossible to render everything through translation. She describes it as a work of ongoing imperfection. The diversity of languages and cultures leaves no scope for a perfect translation. However, it has an immensely significant role since it promotes rejuvenation of an original text by making it available to larger reading public. This paper would try to question certain layered issues related to the translation of Dalit texts and probe into possibilities of making target language readers attain sensitivity towards these texts across languages, cultures, space and time. The translation of Dalit texts is necessary for generating historical awareness and developing a historical sense through inter-linguistic process. The mode of translation can create a possibility for inter-cultural dialogues and can figure out a space where the experiences of the Dalits can be related to those of the Others of the world. In this journey, translation becomes a socio-cultural practice transforming cultural milieus rather than stopping at mere change of linguistic form and superficial reading. I would try to look at translation of Dalit literature as an event at the juncture of different languages, literatures and cultures of the world and find out if translation can enable Dalit literary works to achieve afterlife of their own.

Keywords : Dalit, Translation, Culture, Language, Sensitivity

DOI :

Page Number : 24-27