Odia Litterateur Bangali Nanda Wins Kendra Sahitya Akademi Prize for Translation
Feature: Noted Odia litterateur Bangali Nanda has been honored with the prestigious Kendra Sahitya Akademi Prize for translation for the year 2023. The Kendra Sahitya Akademi announced the award on Monday, recognizing Nanda’s exceptional translation work.
Nanda received the award for his translation of the Telugu short stories collection titled ‘Nelluri Keshavaswamyanka Shrestha Galpa’ by Nelluri Keshavaswamy into Odia. The translated book, published by the National Book Trust (NBT) in 2019, showcases Nanda’s proficiency in bringing literary works from diverse languages to the Odia-speaking audience.
With a remarkable presence in the realm of Odia literature, Nanda has authored numerous books and gained recognition for his translations of works by esteemed writers from various languages. His selection for the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Prize underscores his contribution to bridging linguistic and cultural boundaries through translation.
The jury, comprising Vaishnab Charan Samal, Bipin Bihari Mishra, and Prasanna Kumar Mohanty, unanimously recommended Nanda’s translation for the award, adhering to the established rules and procedures. This recognition adds another accolade to Nanda’s repertoire of over 14 translated works, further cementing his legacy as a distinguished literary figure.
Residing in Rayagada district, Nanda retired from the teaching profession in 2005, dedicating himself to literary pursuits and enriching the Odia literary landscape with his profound translations. His passion for literature and commitment to promoting cross-cultural exchange through translation continue to inspire aspiring writers and translators alike in Odisha and beyond.
