Konkani, Tulu works to be translated into Kannada

The Kuvempu Bhasha Bharathi Pradhikara (KBBP) has taken up the task of translating literary masterpieces in Konkani and Tulu into Kannada, said KBBP chairperson Dr Pradhan Gurudutt.

Speaking to reporters after releasing Konkani literary works that have been translated into Kannada, he said: “Efforts have been made to translate literary masterpieces and classics from different languages in the West, but we have not seen such enthusiasm to translate works from our neighbouring languages in the State. The Kannada consciousness itself would expand if the classics in such languages are translated into Kannada,” said Dr Gurudutt.

He also lauded the contributions of Kannada writers from the Konkani community in enriching Kannada culture and language.

Understanding lifestyles

Writer Vivek Shanbhag said translated works act as medium to understand the lifestyle of another culture and also the sensibilities of another language. “Reading such works would lead to a new understanding and thought process,” he said, adding that Konkani language is one of the richest languages in the country.

Industrialist Dayanand Pai said any community would grow if its language is developed. He added that he would provide financial assistance for translation work.

Writers Gokuldas Prabhu and Geetha Shenoy shared their experiences regarding the influences that helped them write.