Noted lyricist Javed Akhtar today appealed for encouraging translation of good books from other languages to foster better understanding of a particular society.
"We should encourage translation of good books from other languages, as through translations one can understand the culture, the society and the way of living of a particular society," Akhtar said in his address as a chief guest at the valedictory function of the 89th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan held at Pimpri near here.
Akhtar, who turned 71 today, said though the country made spectacular development in all sectors post independence, the fields of art, literature and culture were left behind.
"In the journey of our development, we had left some luggage on the platform and that luggage was arts, literature, and culture. However, I am happy to see that the youths are now getting attracted to these aspects and that is why unprecedented participation has been witnessed at such literary meets," he said.
Quoting noted Marathi writer, P L Deshpande, he said, "He (Deshpande) used to say that to earn the livelihood, one should have a skill, but also learn some art as it will tell you how to live life".
On the occasion, organisers brought out a postal stamp with Akhtar's image on it, which was handed over to him by Education Minister Vinod Tawde.
When contacted, organisers said the stamp was brought out under the 'My Stamp' scheme of Department of Posts.
