Multilingualism And Empowerment| British Council India

India has a vast treasury of literature both in English and other Indian languages as well as translations. The India/UK Together, Season of Culture programme recognises and celebrates this valuable contribution in order to strengthen the ties between the two countries. This event will explore the opportunities that exist when writing for a multilingual audience, as a multilingual author. Traditionally, translation has enabled writers to reach a wide audience and provide access to quality fiction and non-fiction writing. Some authors write in multiple languages. Can more be done to reflect the reality that most people (especially in India) are polyglots? How can writing be more inclusive? And how can education create a generation of inclusive writers? The discussion will also explore the role of multilingualism in the digital world and whether that is a barrier or an equalising factor in access to information and learning. The aim of this event is to recognise the contribution of authors to a shared heritage.

As part of the India/UK Together, Season of Culture we bring you an author meet and discussion at Chennai with Meena Kandasamy, Daljit Nagra and Maithreyi Karnoor in discussion with Janaka Pushpanathan, Director South India, British Council. The discussion will focus on multilingualism and empowerment and the challenges it poses in today’s environment.

This event is going to be live streamed on YouTube. Please register to join.

Through this event we aim to:

build trust and a shared pride in the rich body of literature that connects the two countries
develop the skills of teachers and teacher educators to use English literature effectively in the teaching and learning of English
connect learners between the two countries through collaborative activities that builds interest and skills for future authors in English language
About the speakers

Meena Kandasamy is a poet, novelist and translator. Women dreaming is her latest novel. Daljit Nagra is a UK based poet who will join the event online. His poems explore the experiences and anxieties of second-generation British-born Indians. Maithreyi Karnoor is a poet and writer who also translates literary works from Kannada into English.

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NOTE: The organizers may reschedule, modify or cancel this event at their discretion. Please contact the organizers directly to confirm these details before attending.