#bengali literature in translation

[dee-reads-with-coffee]

Rabindranath Tagore, The Home and the World

[qalbofnight]

In Bengali they say:

Aamaay bhaashaaili re

Aamaay doobaaili re

Okool dauriaar boojhi kool naai re

Chaahe aandhi aaye re

Chaahe megha chhaaye re

Hamen tu us paar leke jaana maajhi re

Kool naai kinaar naai

Naai ko dauriaar paari

Shaabdhaane chaalaaiyo maajhi

Aamaar bhaanga tori re

Translation:

You have set me adrift

You are causing me to drown

The river seems endless as if there were no shore

Even if a storm comes, or clouds cover the sky, please carry us to the other shore dear boatsman

No border, no shore

The river has no limits

Steer it most cautiously, boatman

This boat of mine with a broken rim

https://youtu.be/FnDmg-cBVsA?si=VRC47PAAE-b4o1BV

[thewhimsybookworm]

Bengali Classic Literature.

Read and Loved a couple of years ago.

[roughghosts]

Rain like this doesn’t wash away the filth: Hawa Hawa and Other Stories by Nabarun Bhattacharya

Rain like this doesn’t wash away the filth: Hawa Hawa and Other Stories by Nabarun Bhattacharya, translated by Subha Prasad Sanyal @seagullbooks

The gleaming wet road, the rusty tin roof of a motorcar repair garage, behind it an old paint-peeling stunned-still old house and a chimney precariously propped up with haphazard wires—the sky can see all this. And, not as clearly, the burnt-black tin-backed shops and buses and the in-between blocks of darkness that were Matador sheds and not the half-rotten bellies of fish but the shells of…

[motherlanguageday]

Focusing on literary translation.

HOSTED BY COMMAPRESS, MANCHESTER IN TRANSLATION WILL BE A SERIES OF FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS AND PANELS OFFERING ADVICE AND INSIGHT INTO THE WORLD OF TRANSLATION.

Taking place over three days from 19-21 Feb 2024, the event will be an opportunity for budding translators – or those with a passion for languages – to develop practical skills for literary translation, learn about the life of the translator and discover paths to publication.

The online conference will begin with a keynote from an award-winning translator, followed by two panel events and three workshops focusing on literary translation from Arabic, as well as both a European language and one of Manchester’s community languages (Arabic, German and Bangla/Bengali) into English.

IMLD 2024: MANCHESTER IN TRANSLATION

DATE: 19-21 February 2024

TIME: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

PRICE: Free

THEME; Languages

ORGANISER: Comma Press

BOOK TICKETS

[papenathys]

peer pressured into making a substack. subscribe for

trans, sapphic, slightly melancholic bengali-inspired queer poetry

essays on translation, diasporic versus mainlander identity, and publishing trends

rambles on publishing, academia and campus literature

analysis of contemporary queer subcultures and trans/sapphic subtextual readings in popular literature and media

writing updates + character backstories/creative ideas and inspirations

lots and lots and LOTS of book recommendations

All content is free, without any paywall. but do consider supporting me on kofi or buying my book; it's been a tough couple of months :')

[whippersnappersbookworm]

So I saw a lot of criticism by the Sanghis that Hindu mythology is not something one should write fanfiction about or that it's a religion, and therefore people shouldn't interpret and create stories of their own. But let me tell you something: the culture of fanfiction and re-interpretation of Hindu mythology is not at all new; it has been going on for decades.

So, as I said before in the blog, I am a Bengali, so most of the examples I will give are from Bengali literature. So Krishna is a huge part of these fandoms, and a lot of people write and draw things related to him. But this is definitely not a new thing; it has been going on since the time of Joydev's Geeta Govinda and Vidyapati's Vaishnav Padabali. There is a famous poem by Rabindranath Tagore:

শুধু বৈকুণ্ঠের তরে বৈষ্ণবের গান!

পূর্বরাগ, অনুরাগ, মান অভিমান,

অভিসার, প্রেমলীলা, বিরহ মিলন,

বৃন্দাবন-গাথা,—এই প্রণয়-স্বপন

শ্রাবণের শর্ব্বরীতে কালিন্দীর কূলে,

চারি চক্ষে চেয়ে দেখা কদম্বের মূলে

সরমে সম্ভ্রমে, —এ কি শুধু দেবতার!

Which translates to

"Are the songs of Vaishnav for Baikuntha alone?

Courting, attachment, sulkiness, sensitiveness,

Tryst, dalliances, parting and union, theme of,

The songs of Brindaban – this dream of love,

In the Shraban night on the bank of the Kalindi

The meeting of the four eyes under the Kadambatree

In blushing adoration - are these all for the Lord?

Most of the Vaishnav Padaboli and Radha Krishna Leela poets were very much influenced by their personal lives, which makes sense because they never really saw Radha Krishna with their own eyes, so obviously they need some kind of reference and muse for their works. For example, it is said that Vidyapati drew inspiration from the real relationship between a man and woman in that contemporary period for Radha and Krishna. He created the character of Radha from the very image of an adolescent, joyous young girl of that time period. His radha has a lot of human qualities. Then Chandidas, another important poet, apparently based Radha on his own lover, Rami. Rami was a lower-caste woman with whom Chandidas had an affair, but he couldn't marry her because it was not socially acceptable. Chandidas's Radha is portrayed as a sad woman, mourning for her lover from the very beginning, even before she meets Krishna, and it didn't change even when she was united with Krishna, as she was based on Rami, a woman who could never be with the man she loved due to society. Apart from them, the poets who composed Radha Krishna hymns during and after the rise of Sri Chaitanya in Bengal started including Chaitanya in their poetry. They wrote hymns dedicated to Chaitanya alongside Krishna; some of them even started crafting similar descriptions and personalities for both Radha and Chaitanya. It's from their narrative that Radha's love for Krishna symbolises devotees love for god; it was literally Krishna x Chaitanya. CHAITANYA FANFIC!!)

Apart from Vaishnav Padabali, we can also find examples of such works in Sakhta Padabali. For example, the whole concept of Durga pujo in Bengali is inspired by married women visiting their paternal family once a year with their children. The poets basically localised the mighty goddess Durga as a young girl married to Shiva, who is old and penniless. Several poets, like Ramprasad Sen and Kamalakanto (I don't remember his title), wrote hymns from the point of view of Menaka (Parvathi's mother) as she begged Giriraj (Parvati's father) to bring her daughter back. She chides Giriraj for marrying her young daughter to Shiva, who is old and penniless and roams in the crematorium with his ghost acquaintances. She worries about her young daughter suffering all alone in the Himalaya with no one to take care of. Isn't this also a kind of fanfiction? Where goddesses are made into normal women?

Also, if we talk about Mahabharat and the Ramayana, they also had fanfiction even before the rise of Wattpad and Tumblr. All the translations (except a few) adopted these epics in such a way that they could fit into their culture and contemporary society. It's a known fact that Tulsidas's Ramayan deviates a lot from the original one (Maya Sita, vegetarianism, etc.).

So in a way, it can be a retelling of some sort. So if we are shitting upon the culture of retelling and fanfiction, we should also talk about these examples, not only the modern ones. The truth is that retellings and fanfictions are necessary for these types of stories to survive. It makes sense that one modifies these age-old stories so they can fit into contemporary society. Every piece of ancient literature, be it the Greek epics, the Bible, or Hindu mythology, has its own share of retelling and fanfiction. These are not owned by a certain group of people; they don't have the right to gatekeep. People can and should explore these stories from their own point of view. They have the right to rewrite and retell the stories from a modern perspective. So before you chide a blog on Tumblr for writing Mahabharata-inspired fanfiction or incorrect quotes or bully them for writing a canonically incorrect ship,or critices them for writing self insert fic with Krishna stop and think for a second.

[turvi]

Can I request a remus lupin x Indian (Bengali) reader?

you're the only person I trust to write this well

like maybe right after "the prank" the reader is like screaming at Sirius in Bengali and James, Sirius, and Peter don't understand it at all. and Remus, being the sweetie he is and having dated the reader for almost two years now, knows Bengali (he learned it for her) and gives them some translations of the monologue the reader is on as they try to process it.

if possible could you also include how and when Remus started liking the reader? (maybe they weren't even in the same friend group)

lmk if you happen to need any translations cuz Google can't be trusted. my DMs are open for you :)

WARNING: INVOLVES THE PRANK, KISSING.

TRANSLATION BELOW

Y/n paced back and forth, waiting for Remus to wake up. She was getting more restless as the hour passed. It didn't help that James and Sirius were looking at her with guilt.

James thought it was a good idea to explain himself and Sirius, "Y/n-" 

 "tui ekta gadha kothakar...toder ke matha ta haatu te thake? Beshi pakamo korte gelo..eik minute er jonne o bhabishni...tai naa? Bas Snape ke phaad e phela te aeto baisto chilish ke eik baar o nijer bondhu er o kotha bhabli na!?" Y/n furiously yelled at them. 

 James and Sirius looked at each other awkwardly. It made her more furious that they were sitting there without saying a word. But the reality was that they had never seen Y/n so angry and were scared to speak. "Boka Manus, gadha!!" 

 Y/n stopped her pacing and yelling when she heard Remus groan. She was immediately by his side. Remus smiled weakly as he saw her as soon as he opened his eyes. 

 "Did I ever tell you how much you turn me on when you speak Bengali, even though I don't understand a word?" Remus' voice croaked, and his body was almost numb with pain, but his smug smile was still intact. Y/n knew he was only trying to cheer her up.

 "Remus…not the time." Y/n politely berated him. She couldn't be mad at him. She knew this was his way to distract from the pain and guilt of what he did. "How are you feeling?" 

 "You want the truth?" Remus thickly swallowed, trying to keep his tears at bay. Y/n held his hand and ran her hand through his messy, sandy blonde hair. His eyes fluttered, and he let out a sigh. He forgot about his pain and his guilt momentarily. "I feel terrible. This should not have happened." 

 Remus glared at the pair of Marauders that sat on the floor. They didn't dare look up from the wooden floorboards. 

 "It's not your fault, Remus." Her voice felt like a cure for his pain. He looked into her eyes and wondered what he had done to deserve her. It felt like yesterday when he saw her in the library in the literature section. He had bumped twice against a bookshelf as he tried to get a good look at her.  

 "Is that what I'm to you guys now? A means to hurt someone you don't like? I know you guys hate him, but I could have killed him, and I would have to spend my life in Azkaban." Hot tears fell down his cheeks. 

 "Moony, we didn't mean for it to escalate like this," James explained. He was sweating profusely, trying to find the correct words to defend his actions. 

 "JAMES IF THINGS WOULD HAVE ESCALATED, HE WOULD HAVE DIED!!" Remus' voice echoed in the room. His cheeks were flushed with anger. His body was trembling as his mind offered scenarios of what could have gone wrong. "You two have lost your damn minds." 

 His breathing got normal when he felt Y/n's hand on his chest. Remus laid his head on her chest. Y/n felt his heartbeat, while Remus could hear her heartbeat. He closed his eyes and thanked Merlin that Severus was alive.  

 "Please leave, I don't want to talk to you two." 

 Sirius and James knew they had messed up badly when Remus didn't even spare a glance at them. Sirius tried to speak up, but Remus yelled, "I SAID LEAVE!" 

 Remus sighed and laid his head on Y/n's chest. He rubbed his temples, trying to rid himself of the headache that had annoyed him after he yelled at his friends. 

 Y/n gently untangled the knots in his hair as he stared into the distance. Y/n started to get up from the bed when she felt his hand tug at her wrist. 

 "Where are you going?" His eyes looked at her so desperately, as if he wouldn't be able to see her again. 

 Y/n softly chuckled, "Remmy I'm just going to get something to eat for you. You haven't eaten since yesterday morning." 

 "Please stay." His brown irises were clouded with tears, and her heart broke at the sight. Y/n wondered if Remus knew the effect he had on her. When he first approached her, she was skeptical of him. But all it took were a few silly attempts to flirt, and she could never stop smiling in his presence.  

 "Remus, love, you need to eat. You look weak, and you need to have your medicine, and then—"

 She was interrupted when she felt his lips on her. His trembling hands held her face as he deepened the kiss. Remus didn't pull away from the kiss until his lungs burned for oxygen. "I don't deserve you." He confessed as he nuzzled her nose. 

 "Maybe… but you know too much about me, so I'm not leaving you," she smirked with pride as he chuckled. Another thing she loved about Remus. She loved the sound of his laughter, and she loved it even more when she was the reason behind it. 

 "Please rest. I'll bring some juice and breakfast, and once your stomach is full and after you have taken your medicine, I'll cuddle with you as much as you want." She placed a sweet kiss on his nose and cheek as a reassurance that she would be back. 

 When Y/n walked out of the room, James and Sirius were waiting by the door. They looked at her nervously until James tried to speak up. "Y/n please make him understand we didn't mean to hurt him." 

 Exactly, you were not thinking straight, your one "silly prank" could have put him in Azkaban." 

 Her breath shuddered. She lost her balance, but Sirius held her. Y/n silently sobbed into Sirius' shoulder as he caressed her back, trying his best to comfort her. Y/n mumbled into his shoulder. "I could have lost him. I…I don't want to lose him." James and Sirius held her. James wiped his own tears. 

 His voice was heavy with sorrow. "I'm sorry, Y/n. Please know we didn't want to hurt Remus-" 

 "But you did…you know how dangerous it was. Dammit, you guys became Animagus to make sure Remus didn't hurt anyone. But you used his weakness to hurt someone." She looked at them. Her eyes were bloodshot and full of hurt. 

 Y/n got up and went to the kitchen to get Remus food, not sparing another look at James and Sirius. 

 When she got back into the room, her heart broke at how weak Remus looked. Y/n carefully placed the tray on the bed, waking Remus up with a kiss. She smiled into the kiss when she felt his hands on her hips. 

 Y/n mumbled against his lips. "I thought you were sleeping." 

 "If you wake me up like this, I won't be able to sleep again." 

 Y/n giggled as he pulled her closer. "Remus, be careful you will hurt yourself." 

 Remus frowned when he noticed her puffy eyes. "Dove…what's wrong?" 

 She sniffled as she wiped her tears. "Nothing Remmy. You take proper rest." She started tucking him into the blanket but he stopped her, holding her hand close to his heart. "Who hurt you, pretty girl?" 

 Y/n blushed. She shook her head. She knew Remus could barely move because he was in pain, but he was ready to fight anyone who hurt her. "My silly boy. You don't have to worry. It was just James and Sirius. They were apologizing and... I…it just hit me…I almost lost you, Remus." 

 Remus held her closer as she hiccuped between her sobs. He kissed her all over her face as he spoke. "Oh, lovie, my sweetheart. I'm so sorry." He rested his cheek on her head, softly caressing her arm as she heard his heartbeat. "I'm here, dove. I'm here with you." 

  A/n: Thank you for sending this request and being so patient. I hope you like this. REBLOGS AND COMMENTS ARE APPRECIATED.

 Remus kissed her. He didn't let her know internally how thankful he was that he made it back to her in one piece. 

Translation: you donkey, is your brain in your knees? You guys are so arrogant didn't even think twice. You were so focused on pranking Snape you didn't think about your bestfriend ?!

[beardedmrbean]

[Huey Zoomer Anon]

Me a 12 year who got into foster care (good homes though) and PJO and it sequel series was basically my hold onto sanity during my trouble years: Wow I love Greek myths, oh there thus graphic novel of the Odyessy in my school library that had a good review from Rick Riordan (creator of PJO) saying it a good book! Let me try it out!

12 fucking years later as 24 year old with all the discourse surrounding Nolan Adaptation: Wait people think the Odyssey is American Literature?

What this Emily Wilson translation of the poem: AAAAAAAAAH!

So I found a Bengali friend thanks to our Star Wars fan connections. And I became interested in make Hindu and southeast Asian inspired settings especially with sci-fi because I’m brain dead tired of only seeing American or Nazis culture in western sci-fi

Hmm shouldn’t Asians cultures being the most dominant human ones in interstellar stories?

But I decided to get make sure I bought proper translations of Hindu epics so make sure I understand their type of storytelling and such.

I thought…my ways…was the standard to understand stories works….

Now my big question for so many people

Do you people think the Hero Journey begins and ends with American Superhero comics and Star Wars?

If so that would explain a lot of headaches I started to have as a teen when it comes to storytelling discussions online

12 fucking years later as 24 year old with all the discourse surrounding Nolan Adaptation: Wait people think the Odyssey is American Literature?

Ya the whole Percy Jackson thing is honestly the biggest player in my confusion about people not knowing about the Odyssey, there was a hit YA series about the various bits and pieces of Greek/Roman mythology that spawned a few movies, radio drama, and a tv series.

Which actually might be why the people that don't know Homer might think it's an American story now that I think about it, still feels like a reach to me.

What this Emily Wilson translation of the poem: AAAAAAAAAH!

Adding girl power to Homer is just weird, there's goddesses in there already and they don't need your help emily.

So I found a Bengali friend thanks to our Star Wars fan connections. And I became interested in make Hindu and southeast Asian inspired settings especially with sci-fi because I’m brain dead tired of only seeing American or Nazis culture in western sci-fi

Jedi were samurai, even if we did have one of them leading the space nazis.

Young Ben Solo would have done well to have tried to embrace the zen aspects a bit more.

Hmm shouldn’t Asians cultures being the most dominant human ones in interstellar stories?

Joss Whedon's Firefly had random Chinese tossed into the lines because when earth that was was abandoned the US and china were the remaining superpowers iirc.

That and there's tons of Asian cultured that are incredibly dominant in interstellar stories, just gotta watch the stuff that was made in Asian cultures, or wait for the sub/dub to make it here.

But I decided to get make sure I bought proper translations of Hindu epics so make sure I understand their type of storytelling and such. I thought…my ways…was the standard to understand stories works….

there's going to be stuff you miss through no fault of your own, cultural nuance and what not, oddly enough your thinking about your way being the standard is due to the previously mentioned Greeks, whole western civilization thing and all.

Now my big question for so many people Do you people think the Hero Journey begins and ends with American Superhero comics and Star Wars? If so that would explain a lot of headaches I started to have as a teen when it comes to storytelling discussions online

I hope not, there's so many different stories that can be told and plots to twist.

Even if the basic outline has been the same for 10,000 years or more

[apotatomashedbybts]

D e s i R o m a n t i c A c a d e m i a

celebrates love, exploration and joy of literature all mixed up with South Asian Heritage. It is centered around reading poetry, making perfumes, decorating hands with henna, painting, sewing.

Note: this aesthetic is mainly based on Bengali culture. I am just really emo today and I couldn't help but make something that I could relate to! I hope you like it!

The first picture in the second row is a poem by the Rabindranath Tagore called Sesh Boshonto which literally translates to The Last Spring.

The note in the second picture of the first column reads- "ek sohorei othocho dekha hobena." It means:- (we are) in the same city but we won't/can't meet (or we won't be able to see each other). Hdkzkmzjxjs idk why but it sounds sadder in Bengali than in English (⁠ ⁠⚈̥̥̥̥̥́⁠⌢⁠⚈̥̥̥̥̥̀⁠)

the first small sticker at the left side means:- "In my opinion, there's no one like you." It's actually a line from a song that I really adore! I will link it here!

definition taken from aesthetics.fandom.com

*click for better resolution*

BTS Academia Aesthetic Series

<<scroll down the link above to find the series masterlist>>

[metamatar]

February Reading Round Up! In reverse chronological order of finishing

Reinventing Revolution: New Social Movements and the Socialist Tradition in India by Gail Omvedt

Been meaning to read for a long long time, was serendiptiously a reading groups' choice and on my tumblr dash. Very good, detailed tour of movements that have complicated "class first" - caste, gender, peasant, tribal and their evolution theoretically and historically. Enjoyed how obviously socialist and critical Omvedt is of regressive trends and fair to the demands of popular organising that trouble us. I made so many notes, and intend to revist her perspective later when I've studied more. Where I was familiar with secondary literature like, caste I think she did an excellent job illustrating the limitations and need for Ambedakrite movements.

The Final Question by Chattopadhyay, Sarat Chandra

Bengali literature written in dialogue with the anti colonial movement's understanding of the new role of the Indian woman, this book is angry in the best way. Something very Dostoyevsky like in the arguments between the characters, but, instead of a religious worldview you have a deeply modern, materialist worldview being sharply advocated for against revanchist cultural trends in the novel's heroine Kamal. It holds up really well for a book in 1936, and its tenderness in handling every character's hopes and despair is deeply touching.

The Play Of Dolls Stories by Narain, Kunwar

Tumblr Mutual Book Club pick! Short Story collection by Hindi experimental poet and writer. Very evocative stories that have the best onion like layers of thematic interests. Oft satirical but never bleak, with the exception of the last story which felt like an odd addition to the set.

Her Body and Other Parties: Stories by Machado, Carmen Maria

Short Story collection as well, feminist and queer themes. I'd already read the Husband Stitch and was interested in what else the author could do, unfortunately not a lot more thematically. The stories are tightly written and gripping, only that they don't reveal much to me.

Dumb Luck by Vũ, Trọng Phụng

Tumblr Mutual Book Club pick as well. Relentlessly, satirically bleak, also colonial writing. This one is set in Vietnam when it was in French Indochina. Tetra said that every character is an antagonist and FR. Vicious, and a little too bleak for my taste, this is a more traditionalist critique of Vietnamese elite aping the French. The gender politics are absolutely bonkers, the translation I read does a pretty decent job of transferring the text's humor to modern idiom.

Vita & Virginia: A Double Life by Gristwood, Sarah

Biography of Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackwille-West, picked up on a whim because of my interest in Woolf's 'madness' and her romantic letters. Really enjoyed reading the complicated polyamorous love lives these literati had. Virginia's struggles with her illness are quite movingly portrayed. Illustrated with pictures of the beautiful homes and gardens the subjects spent their time in so fun for me! Enjoyed how conversant the author was with their literary output and its critical reception and impact. Made me want to finish reading my Woolf books.

The Stranger by Camus, Albert

I thought I'd like this more. The distanced narrator is very poorly executed, so the protagonist's redemption? revelations? towards the end of the novel kind of fell flat. Style over substance problem I think.

The Horizon (Sumer, #2) by Gautam Bhatia

Conclusion to The Wall, also one of those I wish I'd liked a lot more than I did. Very fast paced in its third act, well plotted but weakened by its repeated revelation of this character is ACTUALLY on this SIDE. Like, its done with every family member of the protagonist. Worldbuilding remains memorable if a bit predictable. Would make a better movie.

The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway

Personally I love an old man vs a fish, even if it does not have the gay content Moby Dick promised. Excellent use of the novel for investigating the interiority of a man. It's been a short story kind of month I suppose.

Lady Chatterley's Lover by Lawrence, D.H.

I have already complained about how fascist this book is. Why does modern commentary elide on its very violent racism and sexism and homophobia? I don't think its erotic worldview offers much to not fascist post sex liberation readers lol.

The Idiot by Batuman, Elif

Sorry. Girl at Harvard was not compelling as expected, but I did get a lot from the third act where the protagonist confronts her love interest for real - honest writing that doesn't shy away from difficult conversations.

The Master and Margarita by Bulgakov, Mikhail

Stalin era Soviet satire (its a month for it!) Very conversant with Faust, which I had not read so that I think diminished my understanding of the book. Absurd, very Christian and very funny about the comedic aspects of Soviet life. Loved the ending, almost Tolkein like in its hope for pretty broken characters.

The World in a Grain of Sand: Postcolonial Literature and Radical Universalism by Majumdar, Nivedita

Postcolonial Lit: The Takedown. Incisive, excellent, gave me a lot of books I want to try that the author points to as bucking the trend of compliance to particularist, oft parochial and usually defeatist understandings that dominate the genre.

Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin

also Bookclub pick. Devastating. Very effective use of the limited POV to illustrate the way shame damns love. Every few pages wrecked me. Tight and sparing with characterisation + description, but delirious with how emotionally close you ride with the protagonist. Best book I have read in a while.

[outdoor-advertisingagency]

How Local Culture Shapes Bus Advertising in Kolkata

Bus branding in Kolkata requires understanding the local culture, which would help make advertisements that strike a chord with the target audience. The city is rich in heritage, has a diverse population, and is unique in its blend of old and new, which makes it an ideal backdrop for outdoor advertising. Local culture is critical in how businesses approach bus advertising in the city. A local outdoor advertising agency aware of Kolkata's cultural nuances would be well placed to provide valuable input on designing advertisements that appeal to Kolkata's unique demographic and social fabric, making the ad campaign relevant and effective.

Kolkata is a city where tradition meets modernity. The culture of Kolkata is very rich in history and is highly associated with art, literature, and festivals. Durga Puja and Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year) form the two most important festivals or festivities where most people come together to celebrate. These events frequently translate into heavy footfalls and increased public visibility for products. Businesses who use advertisements on buses during festivals may also use this message during this festival season with the festive nature of the event. Hoarding in an appropriate position and bound to capture the people's attention while participating in Durga Puja by incorporating the colors during the Durga Puja event would be highly noticed and recalled.

Another significant cultural aspect that influences the bus advertising scenario in Kolkata is the enthusiasm of the people of Kolkata toward sports, such as football and cricket. These sports appeal to the people in Kolkata, and advertisements carrying messages associated with these themes are highly noticeable. Bus branding campaigns that exploit this local appeal by having sport-related graphics, slogans, or even partnerships with local teams tend to appeal to more people. This cultural influence affects the advertisement design and placement because, for a campaign to be successful, it should consider the places sports fans commute or spend their leisure time. The areas near stadiums or grounds where fresh college pass-outs and undergrads usually converge will be suitable venues for these on-location advertisements. This city itself reflects some excellent cultural knowledge that people carry into its hoarding system because a good section of students remains to be enrolled by famous colleges of Kolkata such as Jadavpur University, Presidency College, and Calcutta University at one time, inviting students of this nation too. A large segment of the people commuting by buses comprises students. Businesses, in this case, those providing education-related services, student-oriented products, and youth-focused brands, should reach out to them as a critical segment. Using slogans related to educational aids, technology gadgets, or clothing styles popular with Kolkata's youth while advertising close to academic institutions can target these students through bus advertisements.

Kolkata has a food culture because it's part of life among the city's inhabitants. Whether kathi roll, macher jhol, or street food, such as pani puri and fuchka, food goes in tandem with the social fabric of the society. Therefore, such bus ads featuring restaurants, food delivery services, and culinary experiences do not strike an irritation factor in the city populace. Effective bus advertisement in Kolkata mainly combines elements of the city's food culture, applying catchy visuals with flavors of the locality, which reflects the tastes and preferences of locals. Food and beverage advertisements focused on the varieties available in Kolkata attract more fantastic crowds, from people working in offices during lunch hours to tourists checking out local items.

The taste for aesthetics also works for bus advertisements in Kolkata. The city's cultural landscape is a mix of colonial-era architecture, art galleries, and street art, which influences local design trends. In a town where colors, textures, and typography hold a special place in everyday life, advertisements that incorporate vibrant, visually striking designs are more likely to capture the attention of Kolkata's audience. Bus branding in Kolkata uses a very striking color combination, and in local languages, such as Bengali, the advertisement is close to people's hearts.

Social values of Kolkata, like its love for literature and an appreciation of arts and culture, inform the tone and message of the advertisements on its buses. Suppose there is a relationship with the city's artistic heritage in the form of literature, visual art, or even music. In that case, this may appeal to the intellectual and artistic demographic who resides in the city. In such a place, bus advertisements that reflect the identity and ethos of the local area will be a good way to connect with the residents.

Simply put, the case of bus branding in Kolkata is more than a mere hoarding placed on a moving vehicle. The local culture, under all its several varieties, be it the festive days and sports frenzy to the city's food, educational, or other cultural hubs, has something to do with how commercialization is represented. Partnering with an outdoor advertising agency that understands the cultural dynamics of Kolkata will lead to very effective campaigns which will resonate well with the local audience making sure that the advertisements not only stand out but also foster a deeper connection with the city's residents. Bus ads can be aligned with local cultural trends and values, thereby enhancing the visibility of businesses and making their brand a part of the city's cultural fabric.

[roughghosts]

And something went terribly wrong: Truth/Untruth by Mahasweti Devi

And something went terribly wrong: Truth/Untruth by Mahasweti Devi, translated by Anjum Katya

Arjun Chakravarty has everything under control. As a successful contractor, skilled in the necessary art of greasing the right palms, business is booming, and finally, after ten years of marriage he and his wife are expecting their first child. Kolkata in the 1980s is booming. A determined project of gentrification is underway; everywhere high-rise buildings are sprouting up, even in…

[ebelal56-blog]

Top Bengali Rebel Poet Shares the Secret to Freedom

Imagine a world where the air crackles with the energy of rebellion, where words are not just ink on a page but a clarion call to the oppressed. This was the world Kazi Nazrul Islam inhabited, a world that needed a voice, a spark, a rebel. Born in a small village in Bengal in 1899, Nazrul wasn’t just a poet; he was a force of nature, a whirlwind of passion and defiance against the shackles of British colonial rule. His life story reads like an epic, filled with struggle, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Let’s talk about his most iconic poem, "Bidrohi," which translates to "The Rebel." This isn’t just a poem; it’s an anthem of defiance. Imagine the power of words that stir your soul, that make you feel invincible, that ignite a fire in your heart. Nazrul’s verses celebrate rebellion against oppression with such intensity that they resonate even today. His words are a reminder that the human spirit can never be subdued, that the fight for freedom is as old as time itself. Nazrul didn’t limit himself to poetry alone. He was a literary chameleon, effortlessly blending genres—poetry, essays, novels, and songs. His writings are a tapestry woven with themes of love, spirituality, and revolution. Each piece is a testament to his belief that art can be a powerful weapon against injustice. Imagine reading a poem that makes you not only reflect on your own life but also on the world around you, pushing you to question the status quo. That was Nazrul’s gift to us. And let’s not forget his music. Over 4,000 songs! That’s right, 4,000! Known as Nazrul Geeti, his compositions are a melodic celebration of Bengali culture. They blend elements from Indian classical, folk, and Islamic traditions, showcasing an inclusive approach that was revolutionary for his time. His music was not just entertainment; it was a unifying force, bringing people together in a time of division. Can you imagine the power of a song that transcends boundaries, that speaks to the very essence of humanity? That was Nazrul’s vision. But his journey was not without its challenges. Nazrul was a vocal critic of British imperialism, and his fearless advocacy for Hindu-Muslim unity put him at odds with the authorities. He faced imprisonment multiple times, yet each time he emerged stronger. Some of his most powerful works were penned during these dark times, including "Rajbandir Jabanbandi," or "The Prisoner’s Testimony." It’s incredible to think that even in captivity, his spirit remained unbroken, his pen a sword against tyranny. Nazrul’s legacy is profound. He is celebrated as the National Poet of Bangladesh, and his works continue to inspire movements for social justice and national identity. His humanist and secular vision is a cornerstone of Bengali literature and culture. His ability to challenge societal norms, caste discrimination, and religious orthodoxy through his writings is a powerful reminder that literature can be a catalyst for change. As we delve into Nazrul’s life and works, we uncover the essence of a man who refused to be silenced. His indomitable spirit and prolific output make him one of South Asia’s most influential literary figures. He reminds us that words have the power to inspire, to unite, and to challenge the very fabric of society. So, whether you’re a lover of poetry, a seeker of justice, or simply someone who believes in the power of the human spirit, Kazi Nazrul Islam’s legacy is one that speaks to all of us. Let his words ignite the rebel within you, for the fight for justice and equality is a timeless endeavor.

[pop-goes-the-weasel]

Hey everyone!

The Khabardar was influenced by Toru Dutt's translation the French "Gare" as Khabardar.

The word is many-layered, and besides the meaning used here, for in Bengali it is used as a warning against perceived insolence! The meaning of this single word differs in its popular usage and context among the North Indian languages, but its sharp, warning tone remains constant (at least to me, a layman who hasn't kept any etymological or linguistic notes)

On a side note, Toru Dutt's works remain highly recommended. She was an early Indian to write in English, at a time when women's literacy rates in the country left much to be desired. She was educated in Europe, knew French and Sanskrit alongside Bengali and English.

Besides being a translator, she was also an an accomplished poet. The lyricism of her poetry is unmissable and best of all, it is all in the public domain. Her short life is remarkable, standing at the cross-roads of cultures and while being a pioneer in the development of Indo-Anglian literature.

(On a side note, the word Toru means tree, and the meaning of words still hold a great deal of cultural significance when it comes to naming babies in India)

First page || Previous page || Next page

Start reading Episode 1

Dialogue transcripts:

Panel 1 (n/a)

Panel 2 Nemo: Ramming speed. Sound effect: K-CHUNK

Panel 3 Ligeia: We have it!

Panel 4 (n/a)

Panel 5 Sound effect: SLAM

Panel 6 Skutnik: The thing has us! It’s dragging us to the surface!

Panel 7 Ligeia: Beautiful…

Panel 8 Nemo: Khadarbar!* I will join him! None of my crew fights alone. Ishmael, take the helm!

*Translation: Beware/Watch out!

[papenathys]

Do you have any recs for books about muslim queer people? especially graphic novels?

I have some fiction recommendations, as I don't usually read too much non-fiction:

[ NOTE: Yes, I am aware that all the gay books listed below are depressing as fuck while the sapphic books are fluff or romance. Take it up with the authors. ]

MLM Muslim Books

Darius The Great is Not Okay by Adib Khorram: an Iranian-American boy with clinical depression makes a best friend for life, reconnects with his grandparents, and repairs his relationship with his father on a trip to Yazd.

Guapa by Saleem Haddad: Rasa, a gay man working as a translator and living in an unnamed Arab country, tries to carve out a life for himself in the midst of political and social upheaval, in this novel set over 24 hours.

God in Pink by Hasan Namir: set in war-torn Iraq in 2003 and follows a young gay Iraqi man struggling to find a balance between his sexuality, religion, and culture by seeking guidance from a sheikh.

The Carpet Weaver by Nemat Sadat: a tragic love story between two gay youths in 1970s Afghanistan, who must keep their relationship a secret due to the fears of societal ostracisation, violence and even the impending threat of a war.

WLW Muslim Books

The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar: Nishat, a young Bangladeshi-Irish lesbian has to fight against racism, homophobia and cultural appropriation when she starts a henna business at her Catholic school, and falls for a rival classmate.

Bright Lines by Tanaïs: a vibrant debut novel set in Brooklyn and Bangladesh, which follows three young women and a diasporic Bengali family struggling to make peace with secrets and their past.

The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali by Sabina Khan: a young Bengali-American girl's conservative Muslim parents forcibly send her off to Bangladesh for marriage, after they catch her kissing her girlfriend; once there, she finds solace and strength through reading her grandmother’s old diary.

Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating by Adiba Jaigirdar: a grumpy-sunshine fake dating romance between two young Bengali-Irish sapphic girls, one Muslim and one Hindu, each having her own troubled relationships with friends, religion and family.

The Quilt and Other Stories by Ismat Chughtai: a collection that includes the titular erotic lesbian love story between a Begum and her maidservant, their sexual trysts unknowingly observed by an innocent little girl– this story revolutionized Indian queer literature and lesbian history.

Radiant Fugitives by Nawaaz Ahmed: a Muslim-Indian lesbian political activist working in the early days of Obama's presidency, attempts to reconnect with her mother and sister, years after her father abandoned her because of her sexuality.

Roses in the Mouth of a Lion by Bushra Rehman: Razia, a Pakistani American, grows up across cultures in 1980s New York, confronting stereotypes, dealing with American society, practicing her Muslim faith, and falling in love with a female classmate.

Tell me How You Really Feel by Aminah Mae Safi: a YA enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy about a popular Persian-Indian Muslim cheerleader and a Jewish wannabe director who end up working together on a project, despite their mutual hatred.

Soft on Soft by Em Ali: a very fluffy and low-angst romance between two plus size women- a Persian makeup artist/beauty influencer with anxiety and a Black actress.

MEMOIRS

My Life as A Unicorn by Amrou Al-Kadhi: from a god-fearing British-Iraqi Muslim boy enraptured with their mother, to a vocal, queer drag queen estranged from their family, this is a memoir about the author's fight to be true to themself.

Hijab Butch Blues by Lamya H: a nonbinary butch Muslim author's powerful, religious memoir spanning from her childhood, to their arrival in the United States for college through early-adult life in New York City, describing how she found queer affirmation in the Quran and Islam.

A Dutiful Boy by Mohsin Zaidi: a poignant coming of age memoir by a British-Muslim gay author, about growing up queer in a conservative household, amidst poverty-stricken east London.

We Have Always Been Here by Samra Habib: a memoir about feminism and LGBTQ community by a nonbinary queer Ahmadi Muslim author, whose family sought asylum in Canada after fleeing Pakistan's political turmoil.

In Sensorium (Notes for My People) by Tanaïs: this memoir interlaces memories of childhood in the South, Midwest US and New York with a universe of memories and scent—inspired by the author's own perfume maker background– while offering an alternate history of South Asia from a Bangladeshi Muslim femme perspective.

I have not read some of these, and am not Muslim, so I cannot testify to their "correctness" of Islamic representation. Unfortunately I do not have any graphic novels that deal with queerness and Islam. Perhaps my followers can help.