Kannada, the language and its literature has been undergoing a dynamic evolution since the earliest found records, dating back to 450 AD. In this journey spanning several centuries, the evolution of the language has been classified into different stages and needless to say, each of these stages saw an overwhelming literary growth - contributing significantly to the culture and social development. Today, as the language struggles to remain relevant in its own land, it has become imperative to showcase its story to the modern generation. Classical Kannada literature between 5th and 13th centuries saw some of the greatest poetic works such as Pampa Bharatha, Gadaayuddha, Yashodhara Charite , and others. While there have been many commentaries and critiques that have been written in Kannada on these works, there are very few translations into other languages. To bridge this gap, a monumental effort has now been initiated through the auspices of the Kannada University. Thanks to the efforts of Professors C N Ramachandran and Viveka Rai, and assistance from professors of Stony Brook University, NY and University of Wuerzburg, Germany, the “Classical Kannada Poetry & Prose: A Reader” has seen the light of the day.
In this book, an effort has been made to translate some sections of the works by classical poets such as Pampa, Ranna, Janna, Nagavarma and others. Speaking about the genesis of this project, Prof. CNR credited the VC of Kannada University, Hampi in seeding this initiative. “Though I was initially quite hesitant and concerned whether such a task can be accomplished, thanks to the involvement of Viveka Rai, I could muster the courage to be involved, and we were able to complete the task. It was no doubt very daunting but fortunately, we had several references available and many like the poet R.S. Mugali had set some direction already. There was a lack of concentrated works that threw light on the historical, literary and social aspects of the Classical Kannada period especially for non-native readers. The book is an effort to fill in this lacuna.”
These works were composed in specific grammatical and lyrical styles ( champu kaavya ) and added to that is also the challenge of finding appropriate words that reflect the meaning of several vernacular words that may not necessarily have an equivalent expression in English. Explaining how this affects the quality of the translation and the process itself, Prof. CNR continues, “Translation of these works is definitely not easy. They have a certain defined structure and many words may not have an equivalent match in English. We have attempted to retain the essence of the overall composition where necessary and this work isn’t intended to be a literal English translation of the compositions. Instead, it aims to provide a glimpse of the splendour that these works contained. To that extent we have made an honest attempt to ensure best quality work. Also, care has been taken so that there are no repetitions of the content. For example, if we have chosen a poet’s work that focuses on the Jain tirthankaras , we have not included a similar work by other poets. Thus, there is variety of subjects and contents.”
Wherever essential, the book also enlists detailed descriptions, anecdotes and notes related to the content of the compositions. These footnotes serve as ready references to the reader and provide contextual insights too. Prof. CNR envisions that this work shall be of significant interest to Indologists, comparative scholars, jainologists, faculty and students of Indian literature and linguistic experts. The book holds a mirror to the erstwhile phase where literature served as a medium for conflicting and multiple views to co-exist and interact in a healthy manner. Through their works, the poets showcased their ability to accommodate conflicting views and creatively explore the characters and humanize them through shades of grey. The works selected for translation reflect a view of life and values that transcend sectarian boundaries.
The question nevertheless remains whether there is a healthy reading community interested in these works of yore. To which Professor CNR asserts, “Our intention behind this book is not to create a potboiler! We understand that it may not be one of those best sellers that everyone would want to buy. But this work is an attempt to cater to the needs of those who are genuinely interested to know about Kannada literature, but hitherto had limited resources in English.”
It is hoped that through this work, non-Kannada readers will find some insight into the glorious literary heritage of the Kannada language. Having earned the Classical language status, it is time that the essence of Kannada literature be kept alive to foster a society that can cherish this cultural heritage and identity.
The book will be released on July 26, Nayana, Kannada Bhavana, J.C. Road, Bengaluru, 11 a.m. The book has been edited by C.N. Ramachandran and B.A. Viveka Rai.
