Kerala-Himachal literary collaboration: CM Sukhu to launch translated Himachali stories in Malayalam

Collection features works by renowned authors from hill state

MANDI: In a unique cultural exchange between Kerala and Himachal Pradesh, Kerala’s literary organisation Bhasha Samnvaya Vedi has translated 21 acclaimed Hindi stories from Himachal into Malayalam.

This anthology is set to be launched by Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu in Shimla on November 9.

The release ceremony will take place at the Chief Minister’s residence, marking a significant literary collaboration between the two states.

A 20-member team of translators from Kerala, called the “Translation Brotherhood Journey”, is currently visiting Himachal Pradesh.

Organised by R Surendran Arasu, who is also the book’s chief editor, the delegation will meet with the Chief Minister for the official launch of the book, which aims to bridge cultural gaps between the two regions.

On November 11, the delegates will join Himachali authors for an interactive session at the historic Gaiety Theatre, Shimla, to discuss literature and foster stronger ties.

Prominent authors, works feature in collection

This Malayalam anthology includes selected works by 21 notable Himachali authors, offering Kerala readers a glimpse into Himachal’s literary richness.

Highlights include Sthanantaran by Hansraj Bharti, translated by TN Satish; Parvat by renowned writer Nirmal Verma, translated by MK Preeta; Thithke Hue Pal by Badri Singh Bhatia, translated by Safiya Narimukkil; Dashanan by Maharaj Krishan Kaw, translated by PK Radhamani; and Bhola Brahmin by Sudarshan Vashisht, translated by Arasu. Each story has been carefully selected to showcase diverse themes and narratives from Himachal.

Alongside these established names, the collection also includes works by authors like Murari Sharma, Gangaram Raji, Keshav Narayan, Yogeshwar Sharma, Rajendra Rajan and others.

From Havaon Ka Rukh by Murari Sharma, translated by P Geeta, to Bojh by Jiya Siddiqui, translated by Aashiwani K, each translation captures the essence of Himachal’s cultural heritage and storytelling traditions.

Strengthening cultural bonds between 2 states

Gangaram Raji, one of the featured authors, shared his hopes that this anthology will introduce Kerala’s readers to the rich literary traditions of Himachal Pradesh. “Both Kerala and Himachal lead the country in literacy.

This collection is a bridge, helping Malayalam-speaking audiences to connect with the essence of Himachali culture and local life,” he said.
As Kerala’s translators and Himachal’s authors come together, this anthology stands as a symbol of linguistic and cultural unity, demonstrating that literature can indeed transcend boundaries.