Good Translation Requires Deep Literary Study – Muliya Raghavayya
Translation is one of literature’s most challenging forms and requires meticulous interpretation and in-depth study, said Muli Raghavayya, retired scientific officer at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai.
Speaking at the 121st birth anniversary of Gundugutti Manjanathayya held at Sri Ram Mandir Hall, Suntikoppa, Raghavayya analyzed Kannada and English poems from Kodagu Kalpataru and Manjanathayya’s life story. He warned against relying on technology like Google Translate or AI for meaningful translations, as they fail to capture cultural depth and linguistic nuances.
Senior writer C.P. Belliappa recalled that Manjanathayya, a key figure in Kodagu’s freedom struggle, had once hosted Mahatma Gandhi at his Gundugutti residence. Inspired by Gandhi’s words, local storyteller Gouramma had donated all her gold jewelry to support the freedom movement. He emphasized Manjanathayya’s role in inspiring legendary writers like Bendre, Shivaram Karanth, and Panje Mangesharaya.
T.P. Ramesh, former president of Kodagu District Kannada Sahitya Parishad, praised the recent English reprint of the first book on Manjanathayya originally published in 1983. He noted that Manjanathayya’s home was a gathering place for Kannada writers and his contributions were instrumental during the 1932 All India Kannada Sahitya Sammelan in Madikeri.
Journalist G. Chidvilas recognized Manjanathayya’s role in fighting the Kambadakada dam project and safeguarding Kodagu, aided by B.S. Gopalakrishna through Shakti newspaper,
Bose Mandanna, former Coffee Board Vice President, highlighted Manjanathayya’s progressive farming initiatives, which led to the establishment of India’s second coffee research center at Chettalli and irrigation projects that benefited thousands of farmers.
K.S. Bhat, retired lecturer from Kushalnagar, compared Manjanathayya’s pioneering work to today’s Atma Nirbhar Yojana, which continues to benefit citizens even after 75 years.
Coffee grower H.S. Thimmappayya praised Manjanathayya’s generosity and vision, calling him a dreamer who provided financial support to students, farmers, and entrepreneurs alike.
Anil H.T., Managing Director of Madikeri Vathara Communications, said Manjanathayya’s multi-faceted contributions to society – in social service, politics, agriculture, religious work, freedom struggle, and trade – serve as a beacon for future generations.
On this occasion, Gundugutti Rajendrakumar, plantation owner of Kanabail, felicitated Muliya Raghavayya. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Swathi Mandanna, Sadhana Rajendra, Manjanathayya’s grandchildren Shanthala, and great-grandchildren Manugautham, Mukul Mahendra, and Akshay.A portrait of Gundugutti Manjanathayya was garlanded in his honor.
