Ujire, March 16: A National Seminar on World Literature in English Translation on “Theatre Texts at Crossroads: East-West Encounters” was organised by the Departments of UG and PG Studies and Research in English, SDM College Ujire. Prof. Venkappa K., former head of the English Department, inaugurated the seminar, emphasising the rich history of Indian drama and the importance of meticulous translation efforts.
Dr Joseph Koyippally, Professor and Head of the Department of Comparative Literature at the Central University of Kerala, delivered a keynote address highlighting the challenges and nuances of translation, especially in Indian literature and drama. Dr B A Kumar Hegde, Principal of the College, presided over the inaugural session.
Dr Avinash T, Professor and Head, Department of English, Sahyadri Arts College, Simogga, discussed the significance of translating Indian literary works into foreign languages, citing examples like “Abhijnanasakuntalam” and “Loka Shakuntala”.
The afternoon session included discussions and a question-and-answer segment involving various college faculty and students. The seminar’s highlight was a theatrical performance of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” by SDM-MMK College, Mysore students. The stage presentation lasted nearly one hour and mesmerised the audience through dialogue delivery, stage setting, costumes, and theatrical coordination.
Dr Shankaranarayana K, former Head of the English Department, as a chief guest of the valedictory, emphasised the enduring relevance of regional languages alongside English. Dr Sridhar N Bhat, Dean of Arts of the College, chaired the session. Prof. Sainath Malligemaadu, Principal of SDM-MMK College, Mysore, was the guest of honour of the valedictory session. Dr Manjushree R., Head, Department of PG Studies and Research in English, welcomed the gathering and Prof. Gajanana R Bhat, Hod of the English, proposed a Vote of thanks. Mr Sooryanarayana Bhat, Associate Professor of English and Mr Vighnesh Aital, Assistant Professor of English, coordinated the Seminar. Ms Shubha Rani, Mr Manu and Mr Deepak Sharma mastered the ceremonies. More than 45 Staff and 115 college students participated in the seminar.
