On the 26th of September 2025, the Department of Translation Studies organized a specialized workshop titled “Translating the Timeless”, focusing on the practical translation of Sangam literature, with particular attention to the concept of thinnai. The session was conducted by Dr. Geetha Sukumaran, Postdoctoral Fellow at the Feeding City Lab, Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto.

This workshop provided students with valuable exposure to the intricate process of translating classical Tamil texts into English. Dr. Sukumaran offered profound insights into the linguistic, cultural, and philosophical dimensions of Sangam literature, emphasizing its continued relevance in contemporary translation practices. Her scholarly approach encouraged participants to reflect critically on the nuances and challenges involved in rendering ancient literary works into modern languages.

In addition to the technical aspects of translation, the session fostered an intellectual space for rethinking translation as a creative and interpretive act. Conducted bilingually in Tamil and English, the workshop enabled students to engage with the source texts from a multidimensional perspective. It was an enriching academic experience that significantly deepened the participants’ understanding of both classical literature and the broader discipline of translation studies.