(Tokyo, January 31, 2024): Mr. Khurram Sohail, founder of the Pakistan-Japan Literature Forum, presented the only Urdu translation of Genji Monogatari to the Ambassador of Pakistan in Japan, His Excellency Raza Bashir Tarar.
This project marks a significant milestone in cross-cultural collaboration. Despite challenges, including the unfortunate passing of the original translator, Mr. Baqar Naqvi, Mr. Sohail undertook the task with unwavering commitment, working for 5 years to ensure the completion of this exceptional translation.
The translators enriched the text with over 800 footnotes that provide profound insights into the complexities of Genji Monogatari.
This is the only rendition of Genji Monogatari in non-Japanese language that maintains the original's prose and poetry distinctions.
Ambassador Tarar, in his remarks, expressed deep appreciation for the cultural bridge this translation builds between Japan and Pakistan. He remarked, "This presentation exemplifies the enduring spirit of collaboration and understanding between our two nations. It is a testament to the richness of our cultural exchange."
This event marks a cultural milestone in the longstanding friendship between Japan and Pakistan.