November 2007 Edition

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Civil Society News
New Delhi

AGE has not blunted Krishna Sobti’s candour and pluck. She has a long list of titles which have won literary acclaim. Her epic, Zindaginama, was honoured with the Sahitya Akademi Award, some years ago. Most of all Sobti has a special place in the hearts of women for her unabashed portrayal of women as strong characters. Author Nirmal Verma described her as ‘the most authentic living voice of Partition and Independence,’ at the launch of the translated version of two of her books, ‘To hell with you Mitro,’(Mitro Marjani) and ‘Memories Daughter’ (Daarse Bichhudi), by Katha. It isn’t easy to translate titles in Hindi or regional languages into English. There is the risk of losing that touch and feel of words which best describe what the author was saying. Katha has done justice. Deftly translated, the books retain their authenticity. Sobti herself was full of verve at the launch. She said she was ‘glad to be alive.’ In 1966 when Mitro Marjani was published it created a storm for its frank depiction of a woman’s need for love and sex. The uproar it caused, said Sobti, was something of a surprise to her. But she soldiered on speaking her mind with her pen. ‘Memories Daughter’ came at a time of hatred, during Partition, when she too found herself trapped in those voices.

Writing the book reaffirmed her faith in humaneness, she said. “Writing is a lonely, serious matter not a hobby,” remarked Sobti. It’s important, she said, to interact with people, hear the plot, feel the anguish, merge reality and imagination. Writing isn’t just a play of words. The last century gave Sobti a big tapestry to explore: she was born under British rule, lived through the freedom struggle, and saw the struggle of a new nation trying to find its feet. “Bhasha writers still have number two status and continue to be called vernacular writers,” rued Sobti.“Good English writers tend to occupy disproportionate space,” said Nirmal Verma. “Those who write in English don’t always read writers in Hindi or regional languages whereas most regional writers have read the English writers.” India’s best stories have come from the pen of bhasha writers. There is deep interest in what they write and what they say. But there aren’t enough sensitive translators around. Verma suggested a foundation for ‘linguistic authenticity.’ The book launch ended with a performance by Asmita, a group that does socially relevant theatre. A chapter of Mitro Marjani was read out. Strong, passionate voices filled the room, bringing alive Sobti’s vibrant character, Mitro.

Both books cost Rs 200 each.
For details phone: 011 26524350, 2652 4511.

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