Pakistani literature into foreign Languages

PAL to translate Urdu works into foreign languages
Islamabad, July 16: Pakistan Academy of

Letters (PAL) will set up a trans-national translation bureau that would aim at translating Pakistani literature into foreign languages and vice versa, said Fakhar Zaman, Chairman, PAL at a book launching ceremony here on Wednesday.

He expressed these views at the launching ceremony of Khalid Iqbal Yasir's long poem 'Rukhsati'. "Pakistani writers are lauded and revered across the globe for their acclaimed works," said Fakhar Zaman PAL chairman.

He denied the perception that young writers were being neglected and had lost fame at the international arena.

"The works of our writers have been translated into different languages at different regions across the globe and they are recognised by the organisations like UNESCO," he added.

Giving the details of the upcoming translation bureau to be launched by PAL soon, Fakhar Zaman said that the bureau would be a vital contribution of PAL towards promoting Pakistani literature abroad and introducing foreign literary ideas here. In addition, he lauded Khalid Iqbal Yasir's book 'Rukhsati' and termed it 'A light in the darkness.'

Fakhar said that different metaphors, similes and other literary terms introduced by the writer exhibited his strong grip over English, Urdu and Punjabi languages and defined his acute sense of observation.

Renowned intellectual Aftab Iqbal Shamim highlighted the technical aspects of 'Rukhsati' and said that the poem did not deviate from the originality of ideas despite being so diverse. Dr Ehsan Akbar said that Rukhsati reflected Khalid Iqbal Yasir's deep study and his power of expression.

Dr Aalmgir Hashmi observed that the book covered various forms, stages and styles of life and depicted their variations.

Shahid Iqbal Kamran opined the writer had not left any social, economic, political, religious, psychological and cultural aspect un-addressed in this poem. He profoundly appreciated Khalid's deep vocabulary.

Some other intellectuals also expressed their views about Khalid Yasir Iqbal's book Rukhsati. The writer thanked PAL for extending active support in launching his book. The Nation