K. Chellappan, an esteemed figure in the field of English literature and translation, passed away on 9th September 2024 at the age of 88 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN). Born in 1936, K. Chellappan had an illustrious career that spanned several decades.
His significant contributions to literature, particularly his translation work, have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award.
K. Chellappan was deeply admired for his scholarly insights and dedication to education, making an everlasting impact on the literary community.
About K. Chellappan: A Pioneer in English Literature and Translation
- Former Professor and Head of English Department, Bharathidasan University (BDU):
K. Chellappan held a prominent academic position as the former Professor and Head of the Department of English at Bharathidasan University in Trichy, TN. His teachings and leadership in the department inspired generations of students and scholars, shaping the future of English literary studies in India. - Publications in Renowned Journals:
Throughout his career, K. Chellappan published several influential papers in respected journals like New Comparison and New Helikan. These contributions demonstrated his scholarly depth and his ability to engage with complex literary themes on both a national and international stage.
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Sahitya Akademi Award for ‘Gora’ Translation
In 2020, K. Chellappan received the Sahitya Akademi Award for translating Rabindranath Tagore’s novel ‘Gora’ from Bengali to Tamil. His mastery of both languages allowed him to beautifully capture the essence of Tagore’s writing, and this accomplishment cemented his place as one of Tamil Nadu’s most distinguished translators. The award showcased K. Chellappan’s deep understanding of cultural nuance and literary technique, earning him widespread recognition.
Notable Works and Translations
K. Chellappan’s literary portfolio includes several remarkable works that continue to be celebrated. Among his notable writings are:
- The World as a Stage: Shakespearean Transformations
- R.K. Narayan: The Ironic Mythmaker
- Literature within/across the walls: Comparative Studies in Classical and Modern Tamil Literature
- Tagore, Bharathi, and T.S. Eliot: Towards Creative Unity (Tagore lectures)
In addition to these works, K. Chellappan translated several Tamil books into English, enriching cross-cultural literary exchange. His translation of Kuraloviyam, Thenpandi Singam, and Meesai Mulaithal Vayathil, works by former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, gained widespread recognition for their linguistic finesse.
Editor of Sahitya Akademi’s Dhakshina Journal
K. Chellappan also served as the editor of the Tamil section of Sahitya Akademi’s journal Dhakshina, where he played a pivotal role in promoting Tamil literature on a national level. His editorial work helped highlight the richness of Tamil literary heritage and encouraged scholarly discourse around it.
K. Chellappan’s Awards and Recognitions
Throughout his lifetime, K. Chellappan received several prestigious awards that recognized his literary contributions:
- Poet Bharathidasan Award
- Tamil Chemmal Award
- Best Teacher Award
In 2017, K. Chellappan was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Translation and the Best Translator Award by the Government of Tamil Nadu, a testament to his lifelong commitment to bridging linguistic and cultural gaps through his work.
K. Chellappan’s passing leaves behind an indelible legacy, both in the academic world and in the realm of literary translation. His contributions to English literature and Tamil translations will continue to inspire generations of writers and scholars.