Chasi Balikara Prema a novel by the acclaimed author Pearl S. Buck, was translated into Odia by Anand Chandra Pathy and M.A. Ohit, and published in 2007. This literary gem shines through its vivid portrayal of agrarian life, timeless themes of love, and poignant social commentary, all finely tuned to the cultural nuances of Odia society.
Pearl S. Buck, an American author who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1938, is well-regarded for her insightful and empathetic depiction of life in Asia, particularly China. Through her narratives, she brings to life the struggles, triumphs, and intimate moments of ordinary people, revealing universal human experiences. “Chasi Balikara Prema” (“The Farmer’s Daughter’s Love”) retains the essence of Buck’s original narrative, skillfully adapted to resonate with Odia readers.
The story centers on the life of a young farmer’s daughter, whose journey embodies the heart and soul of rural life. Set against the backdrop of an agrarian society, the novel delves into the day-to-day realities of farming communities. The protagonist’s story is one of resilience, hope, and profound love, weaving through the tapestry of familial bonds and the pressures of societal expectations.
Anand Chandra Pathy and M.A. Ohit’s translation is laudable for its fidelity to Buck’s rich, emotive prose, while seamlessly infusing it with the cultural and linguistic flavor of Odisha. This translation makes the narrative accessible and relatable to Odia-speaking readers, offering them a window into a world that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. The language is both evocative and accessible, drawing the reader into a vivid world where every struggle and triumph is felt deeply.
“Chasi Balikara Prema” is more than just a love story; it is a social novel that reflects on the various forces shaping the lives of agrarian communities. Themes such as the significance of tradition versus modernity, the role of women in rural societies, and the impact of economic challenges on familial and social structures are explored with sensitivity and depth. Buck’s narrative, enriched by the translators’ nuanced understanding of Odia culture, opens a dialogue about social and economic justice, the valor of the everyday worker, and the enduring power of love and hope.
The novel stands as a poignant social commentary, mirroring the trials and tribulations faced by rural communities, not just in Buck’s original setting but universally. It speaks to the strength and resilience of women, highlighting their crucial role in the fabric of agrarian life, while also exploring the constraints imposed upon them by societal norms.
In conclusion, “Chasi Balikara Prema” translated into Odia by Anand Chandra Pathy and M.A. Ohit, is a timeless piece that balances the delicate art of literary translation with powerful storytelling. Published in 2007, it continues to touch the hearts of readers, drawing them into a rich, evocative portrayal of love, life, and social dynamics within a farming community. It is a novel that stands tall on the pillars of universal human experiences, enriched by the unique cultural context of Odia society, making it a significant addition to both Odia literature and the broader canon of translated works.
Books Info
| Books name | Chasi Balikara Prema/ଚାଷୀ ବାଳିକାର ପ୍ରେମ |
| Author | Perl S Buck; Anand Chandra Pathy, MA Ohit, Tr. |
| No Of pages | 274 |
| Publisher | Chitratpala Publiscations |
| Publication | 2007 |
| Printed At | Bishwamukti Publications |
| Distributor | NA |