Aligarh: Renowned author Ruskin Bond’s acclaimed collection of short stories, Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra, has been translated into Urdu under the title Doon Ka Sabza. This translation was undertaken by Professor Ziaur Rehman Siddiqui, Department of Urdu, Aligarh Muslim University and published by Sahitya Akademi. The Urdu version was launched on January 13 by Professor Mohammad Asim Siddiqui, Department of English and Member-in-Charge, Public Relations Office along with Mr. Ajay Bisaria of the Department of Hindi, AMU.
During the launch, Professor Siddiqui emphasised the significance of translation as a bridge between languages, cultures, and philosophies, describing it as a “creative process of textual revelation.” He noted that translations introduce new ideas and perspectives, enriching readers’ understanding and opening doors to deeper comprehension.
Describing Ruskin Bond as one of his favourite Indian writers and highlighting Bond’s literary genius, he said these semi-autobiographical stories are a valuable resource for students and teachers to explore and appreciate Urdu translation.
Mr. Ajay Bisaria reflected on the enduring appeal of Ruskin Bond’s stories, mentioning the author’s recognition with the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1992 for Our Trees Still Grow in Dehra. He commended Bond’s significant contribution to children’s literature and storytelling.
Both Professor Siddiqui and Mr. Bisaria congratulated Professor Ziaur Rehman Siddiqui for this vital contribution, which underscores the universal appeal of Bond’s literary works and promotes cultural and linguistic exchange.
