Mini Krishnan is a powerhouse of Indian translation. From her own translation work to her extensive editorial background, Krishnan has played a key role in shaping the publishing landscape of India by championing works written in regional languages (and by supporting translators). This year, Krishnan edited three anthologies, each highlighting the modern short story tradition in a regional language. While the editions in , , and are out on shelves, more are in the pipeline. The collections paint a sprawling and masterful landscape of the literary traditions of India across the 20th century.
In an interview with Scroll, Krishnan shared her thoughts on the nitty-gritty of translation in India while highlighting the value of translated literature as a source of history, comfort, and beauty. Excerpts from the conversation:
What is the relationship and editorial process between you and the translators across these three books?
First of all, I’ve known all three of them for a long time. The translators would send me gists of stories – on the phone or in short emails. I gave them a brief: Look at the themes of a time long gone. What was vital in those days? It might seem quaint now, but those layers of society shaped us.
I wanted them...
