REVISITING SHAH JO RISALO: A CRITIQUE OF ITS ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29121/shodhkosh.v4.i2.2023.4315Keywords:
Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, Shah Jo Risalo, Sindhi Literature, Sufi Poetry, Translation Studies, Sindhi TranslationAbstract [English]
Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai’s Shah Jo Risalo is a cornerstone of Sindhi literature, revered for its rich blend of Sufi mysticism, folklore, and philosophical depth. The work explores profound themes of divine love, human suffering, and spiritual trials through allegorical narratives centered on iconic heroines like Sassui, Marvi, and Sohni. Despite its significance, Shah Jo Risalo poses formidable challenges for translators due to its complex metaphors, idiomatic expressions, and symbolic depth. This paper critically analyzes prominent English translations by Elsa Kazi, Amena Khamisani, and H.T. Sorley, focusing on their fidelity to the original text, preservation of cultural nuances, and poetic form. Elsa Kazi’s translation, while accessible, simplifies Bhittai’s spiritual and symbolic motifs, diminishing the mystical resonance. Amena Khamisani emphasizes literal accuracy but often sacrifices poetic fluidity and emotional impact. H.T. Sorley’s interpretative approach imposes Western philosophical frameworks, such as existentialism, overshadowing Bhittai’s Sufi themes. Through translated excerpts in Sindhi and English, this paper illustrates how these translations have influenced global perceptions of Bhittai’s work, sometimes distorting his spiritual vision. The study highlights the tension between "foreignization" and "domestication" in translation theory, arguing that future efforts must strike a balance to maintain both poetic elegance and cultural authenticity. Collaborative translation involving Sindhi scholars and linguists is recommended to bridge cultural gaps and convey the richness of Bhittai’s legacy to international audiences. This paper underscores the need for nuanced translations that faithfully reflect Bhittai’s profound poetic and spiritual genius.
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