Pune: The Anuvadak Manch, a translators’ association in Maharashtra, has demanded that a translator should chair the 99th All India Marathi Literary Meet to be held in Satara. “Translation of books is becoming popular day by day, and such translated books are in demand. This shift in the field of literature can be highlighted more prominently if a translator chairs the prestigious meet,” said Ravindra Gurjar, a member of the association. The association has proposed the name of Chandrakant Bhonjal, a Sahitya Academy Award-winning translator. Other translators said several renowned public libraries have endorsed Bhonjal’s candidacy. The election of the chairman will take place on Sunday. Other senior writers such as A H Salunkhe and Rangnath Pathare are also said to be under consideration. Gurjar said the demand has gained momentum and received backing from numerous cultural institutions, literary organisations and prominent libraries across the state. Bharat Sasane, former president of the literary conference, also supported the idea. “Over the decades, the presidency of the All India Marathi Literary Conference was held by eminent authors across various genres — novels, poetry, Dalit literature, rural writing, science, satire, intellectual and historical writing. However, not a single translator was accorded this honour. If that chance is given this time, it would be a milestone,” he said. The name of the president for the 99th All India Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, which will be held in Satara, is set to be announced on Sunday, Sept 14. The All India Sahitya Mahamandal and the Maharashtra Sahitya Parishad have jointly agreed to select the most suitable candidate for the position of Sammelan President.
