Abu Dhabi Launches 'From Kalima to the World': A New Initiative to Translate Arab Literature Globally
In a significant stride towards amplifying the voice of Arab culture on the global stage, the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) has unveiled its latest initiative, ‘From Kalima to the World’. This ambitious program is designed to broaden the reach of Emirati and Arab literary works by facilitating their translation into major world languages.
The initiative builds upon the notable legacy of the Kalima translation project, which was established in 2007. Since its inception, Kalima has enriched the literary landscape by translating over 1,400 titles from various languages into Arabic. This previous endeavor was primarily aimed at introducing global literature to Arabic-speaking audiences, and its success laid a robust foundation for the newly launched project.
‘From Kalima to the World’ seeks to shift the focus towards translating original Arabic works into multiple languages, thereby promoting the diverse artistic expressions inherent within Arab culture. This initiative comes at a time when cultural exchange and mutual understanding between different societies are more crucial than ever. The program aims to create “sustainable bridges of cultural dialogue” that foster greater awareness and appreciation of Arab literature across the globe.
Dr. Ali bin Tamim, the Chairman of the ALC, articulated the vision behind this initiative during its official announcement. He stated, “Our goal is to pave the way for cultural dialogue and foster mutual understanding with diverse cultures worldwide. Through this project, we aim to highlight the significant contributions of Arab literary and intellectual works to the international community.” Dr. Tamim’s assertion underscores the urgency of countering stereotypes and misconceptions that often cloud perceptions of the Arab world.
Quality and authenticity stand at the forefront of the translation efforts. Dr. Tamim emphasized the importance of ensuring that each piece of literature is translated with precision and respect for its original context. The goal is not only to make these works accessible in other languages but also to preserve the unique voices and nuances of the original texts. This approach aims to contribute to a more authentic narrative about the Arab world, enriching global literary discourse and enabling a more nuanced understanding among international audiences.
The announcement of ‘From Kalima to the World’ took place during the 77th edition of the Frankfurter Buchmesse, one of the world’s largest book fairs, held in Frankfurt, Germany, from October 15 to 19. This prestigious event served as an opportune platform to showcase the richness of Arab literature, with ALC representatives engaging with international publishers and literary enthusiasts to advocate for the importance of translation in fostering cross-cultural relationships.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the significance of translation cannot be understated. It serves not only as a tool for communication but also as a conduit for cultural enrichment. By facilitating the translation of Arab literature into prominent world languages, ‘From Kalima to the World’ hopes to democratize access to these stories, ensuring that the voices of Arab authors resonate with a broader audience.
In conclusion, the launch of ‘From Kalima to the World’ represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to elevate Arab literature and culture on a global scale. With its commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and mutual understanding, this initiative promises to be a transformative force in the literary landscape, bridging gaps and creating pathways for richer intercultural exchange. As the world increasingly seeks to understand diverse perspectives, initiatives like this hold the potential to illuminate the profound beauty and depth of Arab literature, inviting readers from all backgrounds to engage with its narratives.
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