مستشرقین کے منتخب اُردو شاعری کےانگریزی تراجم : ایک جائزہ

Selected English Translation of Urdu Poetry by Orientalists: a review

Abstract

This article analyzes the English translations of Urdu poetry Translated by Orientalists. It provides an explanation of the Oriental, Orientalism and Orientalists. The background and objectives of Orientalism are clarified and the role of translation in intercultural connections is discussed. It highlights that translation is not merely a linguistic process but serves as a bridge between civilizations, facilitating intellectual and imaginative exchanges. Although Urdu is a relatively younger language compared to Arabic and English, it has produced literary masterpieces that have equally influenced Eastern and Western critics, philosophers, and translators. Prominent Orientalists such as Ralph Russell and Arthur John Arberry, have contributed significantly to introducing Urdu poetry to Western audiences. Their translations of poets like Mir, Ghalib, and Iqbal have played a crucial role in making Urdu poetry accessible beyond linguistic and cultural barriers. However, these translations often face challenges, including linguistic nuances, stylistic variations, and cultural disparities, sometimes leading to misinterpretations. The paper explores how different Orientalists approached Urdu poetry translation, assessing their methodologies and the impact of their work on global literary discourse. While some translators aimed for accuracy, others unintentionally or deliberately altered meanings, influencing the reception of Urdu literature in the West. The study also examines how Orientalist translations reflect broader ideological and colonial perspectives. By critically analyzing these translations, this article highlights a contributions and the limitations of Orientalist scholarship in Urdu literary studies, shedding light on the intricate relationship between language, power, and representation.