The literary legacy of the acclaimed Tamil poet ‘Paavendhar’ Bharathidasan has taken a significant step towards global dissemination with the recent translation of his works into Arabic. This endeavor was made possible through a grant from the Tamil Nadu government and was meticulously undertaken by Associate Professor A. Jahir Husain, Head of the Department of Arabic, Persian, and Urdu at the University of Madras.
Professor Husain carefully selected 50 poems from Bharathidasan’s extensive body of work, curating a collection that resonates with themes of nature, education, women’s rights, freedom, and more. These include notable pieces such as ‘Ulaga Otrumai’ (Unity of the World), ‘Koodi Thozhil Seiga’ (Band Together in Work), and ‘Sudhanthiram’ (Freedom). The poems were chosen for their universal appeal and relevance to the Arabic-speaking world.
Professor Husain’s translation project is a testament to the growing relationship between Tamil Nadu and Arab countries, fostering a deeper understanding of Tamil culture and literature. The translation of Bharathidasan’s works into Arabic serves as a bridge between two distinct linguistic and cultural spheres, enriching both traditions.
Professor Husain has a long-standing history of translating Tamil works into Arabic, having previously translated the Thirukkural, select poems of Subramania Bharati, and Avvaiyar’s Athichudi. His dedication to bridging cultural divides through language is commendable and has made Bharathidasan’s poetic legacy accessible to new audiences worldwide.
The launch of the Arabic translation of Bharathidasan’s poems is scheduled for April 29th in Puducherry, an event organized by Ko. Bharathi, the grandson of the late poet and president of Bharathidasan Trust. This event marks a significant milestone in the ongoing dialogue between Tamil and Arabic literature and will undoubtedly enrich the cultural tapestry of both regions.
