THE ROLE OF TRANSLATIONS IN SHAPING A GLOBAL IMAGE OF INDIA

Abstract

The linguistic diversity of India has, like its rich culture, delayed its languages and literary traditions to a limited regional context as opposed to a global context. In recent years, translation has progressed from a means to preserve culture and text, to an active product in the construction of a rich narrative that can be recognized globally to representations of India. We explore the important role of translations as a vehicle for amplifying India's cultural diplomacy and enabling inclusive nation-building in India, as translations allow for marginalized voices to be heard, which becomes a political act, thus moving beyond written communication and show respect for cultural voices to challenge both colonial and contemporary narrative practices through inclusivity. By critically assessing translated texts (including literature, policies, and media), we also explore how translations from India have been a mediator for representing India's pluralism globally. The essential argument is that translations can not only mediate language issues but also can provide people the platform to begin to voice an alternative representation of India as a vibrant and complex country. In assessing these intersections of translation, communities, and global diversity, ultimately we want to today assert partnerships in translation can foster new practices in translation that can enhance India's soft power as a culture. In essence, we argue that through the mediating process of translation and its accompanying community engagement is a pedagogical process of creating cross-cultural dialogue, challenging stereotypes, and working to position India - as a country - as a foremost cultural civilizer to enhance socio-cultural cohesion and equity in a diverse society.