Fazl Ali College releases two Ao-translated drama books

CHUCHUYIMPANG — In a major leap towards enriching Ao literature with dramatic works, the Language Translation Centre (LTC) of Fazl Ali College (FAC) on Friday launched two books in the Ao language at the college’s conference hall.

The first title, Sayuren Ka Indang Jilushitem (One-Act Plays), is a carefully adapted and translated collection featuring works by Padmashree T Senka Ao, Padmashree Temsula Ao, and British playwright Norman McKinnel.

The second book, Kiyimba Noksasep (Wedding Album), is an Ao translation of the acclaimed play by renowned Indian playwright, actor, and director late Girish Karnad.

Sayuren Ka Indang Jilushitem was released by Padmashree T Senka Ao, while Kiyimba Noksasep was released by Tianaro, president of Watsu Mungdang. The dedication prayer was offered by Shilula Imchen, pastor of Women’s Ministry, Mokokchung Baptist Arogo.

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In his address, Dr. I Wati Imchen, principal of FAC, expressed concern that Ao literature lags behind other languages. He urged greater support for local writers and the removal of barriers that hinder the production of high-quality original and translated works suitable even for postgraduate studies.

He called upon the Ao and English departments, the backbone of LTC, to intensify efforts in translation and creative writing to elevate the Ao language to a level where an MA programme in Ao can be introduced in the near future.

Dr. Lanurenla, principal of Soa Chang College and associate member of LTC, highlighted that the centre was established on March 16, 2021, with the primary goal of promoting Ao language and literature. Its key objectives include translating literary works between English and Ao, documenting and translating oral literature, publishing books, and offering translation courses.

She listed several notable publications already brought out by LTC, to name a few- Aor Kilung Oset: Indigenous Household Craft of the Ao-Nagas, (Ao to English), in collaboration with Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) and North East Zone Cultural Centre, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, 2022; Aor Temzüng Ozüng (Ao Naga Customary Laws), in collaboration with Mokokchung Dobashi Court to accommodate non-Ao district administrators; Trailblazers (Lenpir) in collaboration with Watsü Mungdang, 2021 and Origin & Nomenclature of the Aos, and Questionnaire on Ao Naga Customary Laws in collaboration with Ao Senden.

She noted that the release of these two drama translations addresses a long-standing gap in Ao literature, which has historically lacked works in the genre of one-act plays and full-length drama.

Padmashree T Senka Ao stressed the need to teach “Ao without tears” – making the language enjoyable and accessible, especially for young children, to ensure cultural heritage is passed on effectively.

He cautioned translators against altering the essence, perspective, or cultural context of original works, as such distortions could undermine the identity and integrity of both the source and the translated text.