International Translation Day

International Translation Day History

International Translation Day celebrates the crucial role of language professionals in bridging gaps between cultures by promoting communication, understanding, and cooperation. The day acknowledges the efforts and expertise of translators, interpreters, and terminologists worldwide while also highlighting the importance of multilingualism in fostering global understanding. This observance underscores the significance of preserving linguistic diversity and facilitating a greater exchange of ideas and knowledge among different communities.

The idea of International Translation Day originated in 1953 when the International Federation of Translators (FIT) dedicated a day to honour the work of language professionals. In India, a linguistically diverse nation with over 19,500 languages and dialects, translation professionals are paramount in facilitating effective communication. India's long literary tradition has seen numerous works translated from their original scripts into vernacular and foreign languages, ensuring the reach and preservation of regional literature and culture. The observance of International Translation Day in India helps highlight translators' role in the cultural exchange between various regions and in translating important international texts to cater to the Indian audience.

On International Translation Day, various events and activities are organized across India, including seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and award ceremonies that showcase the translation industry's achievements and challenges. Educational institutions and organizations, such as the National Translation Mission, the Sahitya Akademi, and the Indian Translators Association, put forward initiatives that promote the profession and improve the standards of translation services in India.

International Translation Day facts

• The theme of International Translation Day in 2025 was Language Technologies for All. In 2024 the theme was Translation, an Art Worth Protecting. In 2023 the theme was Translation unveils the many faces of humanity.
• Aside from the Bible, the most translated book of all times is The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery.
• St. Jerome was the first person to translate the Bible into Latin from the original Hebrew, making it accessible to a larger audience.
• Indian translation tradition goes back to the days of the Vedic period (1500-500 BCE) when sacred texts were translated into Sanskrit for greater dissemination.
• Translators in India often have different payment structures depending on factors such as language pairs, areas of expertise, and geographical location. However, Indian translators typically charge less compared to their western counterparts, making the market competitive.

In the News and Trending in India for International Translation Day

Top things to do in India for International Translation Day

• If you have language skills, try your hand at translation. Translate a poem or short story from one language to another, preserving the essence of the original piece while adapting it for a new audience.
• Explore literary works from different cultures by reading translated books. Indian readers have access to a wide range of translated literature, both fiction and non-fiction, from around the world.