A K Ramanujan Prize 2026: Indian Scholars Win Prestigious Translation Award
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The A K Ramanujan Prize for Translation is one of the most respected international awards recognizing excellence in literary translation from South Asian languages into English. In 2026, India proudly celebrated the achievement of two eminent scholars who brought regional Dalit poetry to the global stage through their remarkable translation work.
This achievement marks an important milestone in Indian literature and contemporary translation studies.
About the A K Ramanujan Prize
The prize is named after A. K. Ramanujan, a renowned Indian poet, folklorist, linguist, and translator. He played a significant role in introducing Tamil and Kannada classical poetry to international readers.
The award is presented by the Association for Asian Studies and is given biennially for outstanding translations of literary works from South Asian languages into English.
Key Features:
Awarded for high-quality literary translation
Focus on cultural depth and linguistic authenticityRecognizes books published in recent years
Encourages preservation of South Asian literary heritage
A K Ramanujan Prize 2026 Winner from India
In 2026, the prize was awarded to two Indian academicians:
Sipra Mukherjee
Mrinmoy PramanickThey received the honor for translating the Bengali poetry of Kalyani Thakur Charal into English.
Their translated book titled I Belong to Nowhere presents a powerful collection of poems highlighting caste realities, identity struggles, gender discrimination, and social injustice. The translation successfully preserved the emotional intensity and cultural context of the original Bengali text.Significance of the 2026 Award
1️⃣ Recognition of Dalit Literature
The award brings international recognition to marginalized voices, particularly Dalit women’s literature.
2️⃣ Promotion of Regional Languages
It highlights the richness of Indian regional languages such as Bengali and promotes them globally.
3️⃣ Academic Contribution
The translated work strengthens comparative literature studies and provides valuable academic material for researchers and students.
4️⃣ Cultural Representation
It reflects India's diverse literary traditions and social realities on an international platform.
Legacy of A K Ramanujan
A. K. Ramanujan was not just a translator but also a bridge between cultures. His translations of classical Tamil and Kannada poetry helped global readers understand India's literary heritage. The prize named in his honor continues this mission by celebrating translators who carry regional voices across linguistic boundaries.
Important Points for Exams (GK & Current Affairs 2026)
Award Name: A K Ramanujan Prize for Translation
Awarding Body: Association for Asian StudiesFrequency: Biennial
2026 Indian Winners: Sipra Mukherjee & Mrinmoy Pramanick
Original Poet Translated: Kalyani Thakur Charal
Book Title: I Belong to Nowhere
Field: Literary Translation
Conclusion
The A K Ramanujan Prize 2026 is a proud moment for Indian academia and literature. By translating powerful Bengali Dalit poetry into English, the winners have amplified voices that deserve global recognition. This achievement reinforces India’s rich literary diversity and the growing importance of translation in shaping global understanding.