Introduction
The Indian Theory of Translation is deeply rooted in the country’s vast literary, linguistic, and philosophical traditions. Unlike Western theories that often focus on structural changes or formal equivalence, the Indian approach to translation is influenced by spiritual, cultural, and aesthetic values. Translation in India has a long history, dating back to ancient times when texts like the Vedas, epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and philosophical treatises were translated across regions and languages.
Historical Background
In India, translation began as a sacred and cultural activity. Religious and philosophical texts were often translated from Sanskrit into local languages such as Pali, Prakrit, Tamil, and others. These translations were not literal but interpretive, focusing more on meaning and essence than on word-for-word rendering. This approach valued the spirit of the text rather than its exact form.
Key Concepts in Indian Translation Theory
- Anuvad: In Indian tradition, the term for translation is “Anuvad” which literally means ‘speaking after’. This suggests that translation is a process of interpretation and retelling, not just conversion of words from one language to another.
- Sahitya (Literature) and Rasa (Aesthetic Emotion): Indian translators aim to preserve the ‘rasa’ or emotional flavor of the original text. The goal is to make the translated work evoke the same feelings and insights as the original.
- Faithfulness vs Creativity: Indian theory encourages creative liberty. Translators often adapt the text to suit the audience, time, and region, rather than sticking to literal fidelity.
- Contextualization: Translators consider the social, cultural, and religious background of the target audience. This makes the translation more accessible and relatable.
Types of Indian Translation Approaches
There is no single Indian theory of translation. Instead, there are multiple approaches based on region, language, and genre. Some notable ones include:
- Bhakti Translation: Spiritual texts were translated to inspire devotion. For example, Tulsidas’s Ramcharitmanas is a retelling of Valmiki’s Ramayana in Awadhi, adapted for a different audience and time.
- Classical to Vernacular: Many Sanskrit texts were translated into regional languages to make knowledge more democratic and widespread.
- Colonial and Postcolonial Approaches: During British rule and afterward, Indian translators began engaging with Western literature, and translation became a way to assert cultural identity and political resistance.
Examples of Indian Translation Practice
- Translation of the Bhagavad Gita into multiple Indian and foreign languages over centuries, each with interpretive variations.
- A.K. Ramanujan’s translations of Kannada and Tamil poetry, where he emphasized conveying cultural and emotional context.
- Mahabharata translations into Assamese, Bengali, Malayalam, and other languages, with additions and alterations suitable for local cultures.
Influence of Indian Philosophy
Indian thought systems such as Vedanta, Buddhism, and Jainism also influence the translation process. The translator is seen not just as a linguistic expert but as a thinker and interpreter. The focus is on artha (meaning) and bhava (feeling), rather than form.
Modern Perspectives
In modern times, Indian scholars like Sujit Mukherjee, G.N. Devy, and others have worked to establish translation as a serious academic discipline. They emphasize that Indian translation should not be judged by Western standards but appreciated for its own philosophical and cultural uniqueness.
Conclusion
The Indian Theory of Translation is a rich and diverse field that prioritizes meaning, emotion, and cultural sensitivity over structural fidelity. It reflects India’s pluralistic ethos and long-standing tradition of multilingualism. Understanding Indian translation theory is essential not only for translation scholars but also for anyone interested in India’s cultural and literary heritage.