KALIDASA FOR THE 21st CENTURY READER

BOOK LAUNCH AND READING:
KALIDASA FOR THE 21st CENTURY READER
Translated by Mani Rao

Most previous Kãlidãsa translations have been done by scholars, not by poets. Mani Rao, a poet brings her own poetic sensibilities to the translations. Most translations focus on what the text means, but – as Sanskrit readers know – it is actually in the insights, commentaries and reading-appreciation that the delights of Kãlidãsa emerge. Often, the language of Kãlidãsa translations tends to be from a bygone era but Mani Rao’s new translation uses language that can be comfortably used on stage.
Mani Rao’s supple, contemporary translation removes the distance between Kãlidãsa and the modern reader; she helps ‘read’ the poetry for us while remaining loyal to the text. The volume includes the entire Meghadūtam, Abhijnãna Sãkuntalam, and selections from Kumãrasambhavam, Ṛtusaṃhāram, Vikramorvasíyam and Mãlavikãgnimitram. This is a translation that belongs to today; Kãlidãsa renewed

The book will be launched by Sanskrit scholar Dr. Sucheta Paranjpe.

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK:
“Mani Rao gives us versions from what she tells us is Kalidasa’s least admired poem – but, completely reinventing Sanskrit translation, she also gives us new eyes by which to think on it.”– Almost Island.
“Immediacy and palpable beauty” — Poetry at Sangam.
Entry Free