Mississauga, Canada – A remarkable event took place in Mississauga, Canada, where Echoes from the Mountains, a collection of selected poems by renowned Pashto poet Ghani Khan, was officially launched.
The event, attended by a distinguished group of social and cultural figures, was a celebration of Ghani Khan’s legacy and his profound contributions to Pashto literature.
The collection, translated into English by Dr. Khalida Naseem, brings to life 68 of Khan’s finest works, carefully selected from his Diwan (a complete anthology of his poems).
Dr. Naseem, a physician based in Ontario, Canada, shared her journey of translating Khan’s poignant poetry, emphasizing her commitment to retaining the beauty and essence of the original Pashto verses.
In her remarks, Dr. Naseem highlighted the delicate nature of her work, stating, “Translating poetry is never an easy task. Ghani Khan’s words are imbued with the eloquence of Pashto, which is difficult to replicate in English. However, I have made every effort to preserve the essence of his work. Where necessary, I have rearranged the structure of the lines to maintain the flow and beauty of the poems, and I’ve provided footnotes to explain some words that couldn’t be directly translated.”
Dr. Naseem spoke with great passion about her lifelong connection to Pashto literature and culture. Originally from Peshawar, Pakistan, Dr. Naseem completed her medical residency at Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi before furthering her education in the United States and Canada.
Despite her medical career, her love for literature has been a constant part of her life. She believes that Echoes from the Mountains will introduce Pashto literature to a global audience, offering them a glimpse into the beauty of the language and the depth of its cultural messages.
The title Echoes from the Mountains symbolizes the majestic Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) region, the homeland of Ghani Khan, where his words, like echoes reverberating through the mountains, continue to resonate with timeless beauty.
Dr. Naseem’s translation effort seeks to bring that resonance to the English-speaking world.
The Genius of Ghani Khan:
Ghani Khan, one of the most celebrated figures in Pashto literature, is revered not only for his poetry but also for his philosophy of free thought, humanity, love, and beauty. His verses explore themes that transcend time and place, touching upon the universal truths of life, self, and human connections. His respect for Pashtun social life, customs, and values shines through in his work, which continues to inspire readers worldwide.
Dr. Naseem reflected on the significance of translating Khan’s works, acknowledging the challenge of doing justice to the original poetic beauty of his language.
However, she expressed confidence in her effort to bridge the gap between Pashto and English, bringing the essence of Ghani Khan’s profound thoughts to a broader audience.
Endorsements and Recognition:
The translation has already garnered praise from literary figures. Poet and author Skip Maselli commended Dr. Naseem for her sensitive and faithful rendering of Ghani Khan’s poems, noting that her translation captures the spirit of the original works. Dr. Kamran Ahmad, a clinical psychologist and author, also praised the collection, remarking that the poetry invites readers to explore deeper aspects of self, life, and love.
“Dr. Naseem’s translation brings the timeless beauty of Ghani Khan’s poetry to the world stage,” Dr. Ahmad added, “showcasing the philosophical richness and cultural heritage of Pashto literature.”
A Milestone in Pashto Literary Translation:
The launch of Echoes from the Mountains represents a significant milestone in Dr. Naseem’s ongoing dedication to Pashto literature. This collection not only honors Ghani Khan’s literary genius but also brings his work to new audiences, ensuring that the poet’s legacy endures across borders and languages.
With the publication of this translated work, Dr. Naseem has made an important contribution to preserving and sharing the cultural richness of the Pashto-speaking world.
Fans of poetry and literature alike can now experience the beauty of Ghani Khan’s words in English, thanks to the meticulous care and respect that Dr. Naseem has shown in translating them.
Echoes from the Mountains is a testament to the enduring power of poetry and the ability of language to transcend borders and connect hearts.
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