Initiatives
mark the proactive institution Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya functioning under
the dynamism of Principal Prof. Dr. (Mrs.) Ajay Sareen. Making a huge leap, the
Reader’s Club organised a panel discussion bringing the author and translator
together on the same front, “The Author and the Translator in conversation on
translation of the Ministry of Utmost Happiness.” The distinguished panel
comprised of the Author , Ms. Arundhati Roy, the Translator Mr. Daljit Ami, Principal
Prof. Dr. (Mrs.) Ajay Sareen, Mr. Rahul Saini, Ms. Preet Inder Dhillon, Mr.
Satnam Manik, Deepak Bali and the moderator Dr. Ramnita Saini Sharda.
The
eminent name ‘Arundhati Roy’ which is an introduction to herself was cordially
welcomed by Principal Prof. Dr. (Mrs.) Ajay Sareen by presenting a planter and
the traditional phulkari. Mr. Daljit Ami, the renowned Punjabi documentary film
maker and journalist was presented with a planter and a shawl. Expressing her
heartiest welcome to Arundhati Roy, Dr. Ajay Sareen exclaimed that it was a
sincere wish being fulfilled and a dream come true. She elaborated upon the
humbleness, politeness and the beautiful soul which the novelist possesses.
Initiating
the event, Dr. Ramnita Saini Sharda, Dean Innovations introduced the concept
note emphasizing upon the depiction of the ephemeral nature of humans by the
novelist and remarked that the cause of discussion will help to ponder over the
gain and loss in translations.
Beginning
with the discussion Dr. Ramnita asked Ms. Arundhati Roy about her purpose as a
writer. Retorting humorously she said that she does not actually know but she
feels freedom is the fundamental foundation of being a writer. She remarked that
fiction is an enhanced form of truth and not away from it. It is like creating
a universe of love where we walk along with people. It was followed by
screening of a short documentary. Ms. Arundhati read a few passages from her
book and Mr. Daljit read the translated version of the passages. Speaking about
the process of translation Mr. Daljit explained that translation is going
beyond the boundaries. The book attracted him as it represents the complexities
intriguing the contemporary scenario.
The
audience also put forth a series of questions to Ms. Arundhati to which she
answered candidly. The discussion presented an insight into the process of
translation and benefitted the audience. The stage was conducted by Dr. Anjana
Bhatia. Faculty members of the college as well as of other institutions graced
the occasion with the presence.
