Dr. Govind Chatak (1933-2007) is the well known folklorist and writer. He has several books on folk tradition, language, criticism and culture. He taught in the Department of Hindi of the Rajdhani College (Delhi University) and has been honoured by The U.P. Hindi Sansthan, The Sahitya Kala Parishad, The Ministry of Environment and The Hindi Academy (Delhi). His Uttarakhand ki Lok Kathayein is one of the most original compilation and a treasure trove of the rich oral folk tradition of Uttarakhand.
Arun Pant (The Translator) formerly Professor, Department of English, HNB Garhwal Central University at SRT Campus, Badshahi Thual, Tehri, Uttarakhand.
A decade ago at this time of the year I came to realise the deeper issues which go with any exercise of translation. The Folk Tales of Uttarakhand was never planned as a book but it evolved as my interest grew beyond the few folk stories which were in the compilation of Dr Govind Chatak.
As I got more involved with the world which was revealed behind and beyond the stories-mostly with simple plots and narration- the responsibility of being true to the core of the folk world was overwhelming, For folk tales are easily a reflection of the collective memory and conscience of the people of the land. This form of literature, originally to be found in oral traditions holds immense potential to reveal the true nature of our societies. Any act of faithfully presenting them in a book form is an important effort towards safeguarding the heritage of the land.
Over the years as the translator of the original book in Hindi the responsibility that rested with me has become clearer. The translator of such a text beside getting the right words and phrases, the correct tone for the original expressions must become the bridge to enjoin the world of the readers of the translated work with the world that is depicted in the folk stories.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist