International Translation Day Special: Transcending Boundaries: The Legacy and Relevance of Translations
By Kanishka Raj
In the rich tapestry of human history, communication has been our most treasured asset. From the cradle of civilization, where ancient tongues whispered tales of lore, to our current digital age where languages converge at the click of a button, communication has been the lifeblood of human connection. In this journey of words and cultures, translations have played a role so profound that it has often transcended mere language interpretation.
Imagine the bustling trade routes of Mesopotamia, where traders from different lands haggled and bartered. Or the scholarly gatherings in the Indus Valley, where ancient wisdom was exchanged. Reflect upon the grand plazas of Central America where ideas, both sacred and mundane, were shared. The backbone of these interactions, across varied geographies and epochs, was effective communication, facilitated by adept translators who seamlessly bridged cultural divides.
Historical records and archaeological findings point towards the sophisticated ways ancient civilizations communicated. The Inca, for instance, used khipu, an ingenious system of knotted strings, to record data, proving that the essence of language goes beyond scripts. Mesopotamia’s cuneiform inscriptions, some of the earliest known written records, give insights into the day-to-day life of Sumerians, from intricate tax systems to everyday grocery lists.
The Medieval World saw a surge in translation activities, especially with the Arabic and Persian scholars translating and preserving ancient Greek and Roman texts. This linguistic bridge ensured that the Renaissance in Europe was enriched by the ancient wisdom of the East. Fast forward to more modern times, the formation of the United Nations after the devastations of the World Wars signified the importance of multilingual dialogue. In the echoing chambers of the UN, translators work tirelessly, ensuring that global leaders understand each other, making cooperation possible and peace attainable.
As we mark International Translation Day on 30th September, it’s more than just an annual observance. It’s an embodiment of centuries of linguistic endeavors. The day, set by the General Assembly, also honors St. Jerome, a revered figure in the world of translations. His translation of the Bible has been a beacon for countless translators over the centuries.
Today’s globalized world, teeming with diversity, throws up its own unique challenges. Digital communications might have bridged distances, but linguistic barriers still persist. Herein lies the indispensability of translators who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Their efforts ensure that the joy of a Spanish poem is felt by a reader in Japan, the intricacies of an English research paper are understood by a scholar in Brazil, or the nuances of a Bollywood song resonate with an audience in Russia.
Multilingualism, thus, isn’t merely about speaking multiple languages. It’s about the coexistence of cultures, traditions, and histories. By promoting multiple languages, translators not only keep the essence of these cultures alive but also ensure that they thrive in today’s global conversation.
The path towards global sustainability, as charted by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, is paved with numerous challenges. And for these goals to truly resonate across borders, they must be communicated in languages that resonate with people from all walks of life. Translators, thus, are at the forefront of this global mission, ensuring inclusivity.
The role of a translator extends far beyond converting text from one language to another. They are the unsung heroes who weave the fabric of global unity, understanding, and cooperation. Through their efforts, they ensure that even though the world speaks in myriad tongues, its essence remains universal. And as we delve into the symphonies of our shared Earth, we realize that with translators by our side, nothing truly gets ‘lost in translation’.
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Kanishka is a Class-XII student from Orchids International School, Jaipur, Rajasthan. She is an ambitious student aiming to contribute to sustainability and peace through her work and writings. Email: [email protected]