Translation plays a vital role in any language's survival and development. For Odia, translation has been much more than just a linguistic exercise—it has been about resistance, identity, and empowerment. Spanning centuries, Odia translation has transitioned through various periods, from ancient oral traditions to colonial struggles, and finally into the modern era of institutionalized translation efforts.

This blog will take you on a journey through the rich history of Odia translations from the 15th century to the present. By the end of it, you will have a deeper appreciation for how language evolves and survives through translation.

Early Days: Odia Translation in the Pre-Sarala and Sarala Era (Till 15th Century)

A World of Oral Tradition

The early days of Odia translation, like in many cultures, began with oral traditions. In fact, there is little evidence of written translations from this time. Language was passed down through stories, songs, and folklore, keeping the essence of Sanskrit texts alive while giving them a local flavor. Sarala Das, a prominent figure of this era, was instrumental in bridging the gap between Sanskrit and the emerging Odia literary tradition.

But the most significant contribution of this period was the Odia Mahabharata written by Sarala Das, which became a crucial step in establishing Odia as a literary language. Instead of a direct translation, it was a "transcreation," adding elements of Odia culture and language to the ancient Sanskrit epic.

Did You Know?

Sarala Das’s Mahabharata was one of the first known translations into Odia, but it wasn’t a direct translation! Sarala Das added many local Odia elements to make the story resonate with people of his time. He even made the language simpler, using everyday terms so that common people could understand it!

The Age of Panchasakha and Bhanja (16th to 18th Century)

The Five Saints of Odisha and the Growth of Vaishnavism

As Odia literature progressed, we entered the Panchasakha Yuga, marked by the contributions of five saint poets: Balaram Das, Atibadi Jagannath Das, Achyutananda Das, Ananta Das, and Jasobanta Das. These poets weren't just translating Sanskrit texts; they were transforming them into something deeply Odian, adding philosophical reflections and moral stories unique to their culture. This period was a golden era for the development of Vaishnavism in Odisha, and translations from Sanskrit texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Ramayana helped spread these religious ideas.

Did You Know?

One of the most popular translated works from this period is Jagannath Das's Srimad Bhagavata, which is still widely read and respected in Odisha! Even though it was a translation, Jagannath Das’s creativity made it feel like an original work.

The Colonial Era: Translation as a Political Tool (19th to Mid-20th Century)

The First Printed Odia Translation: The Bible

With the arrival of British missionaries and the establishment of printing presses in Odisha in the 19th century, translation activities took on new urgency. The first printed Odia book was the New Testament, translated in 1809 by British missionaries. This was followed by translations of numerous religious texts, particularly the Bible, as part of the British missionaries' efforts to spread Christianity.

More interestingly, these translations were also part of a broader effort to assert Odia as a distinct language, especially in the face of Bengali domination. At this time, the Bengali elite were attempting to suppress Odia, pushing for its incorporation into the Bengali linguistic fold.

To read the The Fascinating Journey of Odia Translation (1803-1936)

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Did You Know?

The first printed Odia book was not a work of local literature, but rather a translation of the New Testament from the Bible. This translation, published in 1809, was part of the British missionary effort in Odisha!

The Rise of Odia Literature in the Colonial Age

Fakir Mohan Senapati: The Father of Odia Literature

This era saw the rise of Fakir Mohan Senapati, known as the "Father of Odia Literature." Senapati translated works from Sanskrit and English, giving Odia literature a much-needed boost during a time when Bengali dominance threatened its existence. He is credited with translating many important texts, such as Jibancharit, which was a biography of scientists like Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton.

Senapati’s translations were not just linguistic exercises—they were acts of defiance. By translating these texts into Odia, he was asserting the legitimacy of the language and fighting for its survival in the face of Bengali and English dominance.

Did You Know?

Fakir Mohan Senapati wasn’t just a translator—he was a nationalist! His translations helped establish Odia as a legitimate language during a time when the Bengali elite were trying to suppress it.

The Satyabadi Era: Translation for Nationalism and Social Reform (Early 20th Century)

Gopabandhu Das and the Satyabadi School

In the early 20th century, translation became a tool for social reform. The Satyabadi School, led by Gopabandhu Das, aimed to empower women and the lower castes through education and literature. Translators like Pandit Nilakantha Das and Godabarisha Mishra played key roles during this period by translating works from English into Odia to spread ideas of nationalism, women's empowerment, and social justice.

For example, Nilakantha Das translated Alfred Lord Tennyson’s "The Princess" into Odia to inspire Odia women towards empowerment. Similarly, Godabarisha Mishra translated Victor Hugo’s "Les Miserables" into Odia, adapting the tale of revolution to the local context.

Did You Know?

Pandit Nilakantha Das translated Tennyson’s "The Princess" into Odia with a specific goal in mind: to inspire Odia women toward empowerment and to push for their inclusion in the social and political fabric of Odisha.

Modern Era: Institutionalization of Odia Translation (Mid-20th Century to Present)

Sahitya Akademi and the Push for Translations

After India gained independence, translation efforts became more organized and institutionalized. Institutions like the Sahitya Akademi and Odisha State Bureau of Textbook Preparation played a critical role in promoting translation activities. These institutions ensured that Odia translations weren't just about literature but also included important scientific, political, and philosophical texts.

For instance, Plato's "Republic" was translated into Odia, along with important scientific works like Stephen Hawking's "A Brief History of Time". This period marked a shift from merely translating religious and literary texts to making scientific knowledge accessible to the masses in their native language.

Did You Know?

Odia translations went beyond literature! Stephen Hawking’s "A Brief History of Time" was translated into Odia in the early 21st century, making complex scientific ideas accessible to the Odia-speaking populace.

The Legacy of Odia Translations: Impact and Future

A Rich Tradition That Continues to Grow

The history of Odia translation is one of resilience and growth. From its roots in oral traditions and religious texts to its modern efforts in science and philosophy, translation has always been central to the survival and development of the Odia language.

Today, Odia translations continue to thrive, thanks to the efforts of translators, institutions, and the people who read and appreciate them. In the future, with the rise of digital platforms and growing interest in preserving regional languages, Odia translation is set to reach new heights.

Did You Know?

Did you know that many famous English novels like "Alice in Wonderland" and "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" have been translated into Odia? These translations ensure that Odia-speaking readers can enjoy world literature in their native tongue.

Conclusion

The history of Odia translation is as vibrant and diverse as the language itself. From the oral traditions of the pre-Sarala era to the digital age of today, translation has played a crucial role in keeping the language alive. It has democratized knowledge, fought against linguistic suppression, and helped Odia claim its place in the world of literature.

So next time you read a translated work, take a moment to appreciate the journey it has taken through time, culture, and language. And who knows? Maybe it will inspire you to dive deeper into the fascinating world of Odia translations.

The Fascinating History of Odia Translations

How a Language Survived and Thrived ?