Roopa Pai Reflects on KS Nisar Ahmed's Legacy in Bengaluru's Poetry Scene
Bangalore, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and literary scene, has recently witnessed a heartfelt tribute to one of its beloved poets, KS Nisar Ahmed. Roopa Pai, a Bengaluru-based writer and co-founder of Bangalore Walks, embarked on a journey to translate Nisar's poetry, celebrating his contributions to Kannada literature. This endeavor began in 2016 when she shared translations of various Kannada poets on social media, igniting a renewed interest in the works of these literary figures. Nisar, renowned for his iconic poem "Nityotsava," left an indelible mark on Karnataka's cultural landscape. Roopa's fascination with his work deepened when she discovered his satirical poem "Hakku." After a serendipitous meeting at an event in 2017, where she expressed her desire to translate more of his poems, Nisar encouraged her to pursue this passion. This interaction laid the groundwork for "Every Day a Celebration," an anthology of 102 of Nisar's poems, which showcases the breadth of his themes, from politics to identity and communal harmony. The project, however, was not without its challenges. Following Nisar's passing in May 2020, Roopa found herself grappling with the loss, which stalled her progress on the translation. It wasn't until three years later that she revisited the manuscript, ultimately delivering it to the publisher in August 2024. Despite the delays, Roopa expressed joy in the creative process, striving to ensure that the translations resonated with English-speaking audiences while preserving Nisar's essence. Roopa's efforts highlight the importance of recognizing poets like Nisar, who, despite their broad themes and unique styles, may not always receive the acclaim they deserve. Through her work, she aims to honor his legacy and introduce his profound insights to a wider audience, reaffirming the enduring power of poetry in bridging cultural divides.
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