DefinePK

Abstract

This study examines the quality of two English translations of Bulleh Shah’s famous Punjabi poem “Ilmoun Bas Kari O Yaar.” One translation is by Kartar Singh Duggal and the other is by R. A. Nicholson. The research employs Eugene Nida’s model of equivalent effect to assess how effectively each translation conveys the poem’s profound spiritual meaning and intricate cultural nuances. This research presents a significant challenge in translating Sufi poetry into various languages. Using a qualitative comparative analysis, the study evaluates both translations in light of Nida’s concepts of dynamic and formal equivalence. It measures how well they maintain semantic accuracy, emotional depth, and stylistic integrity. The findings show that Duggal’s translation captures the mystical intensity and lyrical quality of the original poem. In contrast, Nicholson’s more rigid style sometimes loses meaning and emotional resonance. The analysis highlights the challenges of translating mystical poetry, where cultural context and spiritual themes are equally important as word choice. By highlighting these differences in translation, the study contributes to the broader discussion about interpreting texts across languages and cultures. It sheds light on the balance between faithfulness to the original form and conveying the essence of the poetry. Ultimately, this research demonstrates that dynamic equivalence, as exemplified in Duggal’s translation, is more effective in preserving the transcendent quality of Bulleh Shah’s poetry.
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