Courtesy of Criticism

courtesy of criticism

Penguin Random House India, in collaboration with the Ashoka Centre for Translation, is thrilled to unveil Chronicles, an ambitious translation series that bridges the rich tapestry of India’s linguistic heritage with the global audience of English readers. Supported by the prestigious Manju Deshbandhu Gupta Fellowship and published under the Vintage imprint, Chronicles serves as an archive of ideas and narratives, bringing forth translated works from diverse Indian languages.

Introducing Chronicles: A Landmark Non-Fiction Translation Series by Penguin Random House

This groundbreaking initiative features memoirs, critical essays, biographies, and more, illuminating moments and movements that define India’s socio-cultural evolution. Through its meticulously curated translations, Chronicles captures the essence of India’s multifaceted history, making it accessible and compelling for contemporary readers.

The first book of this landmark series releases this December 2024, and it promises to set the tone for the remarkable journey ahead.


Courtesy of Criticism: Selected Essays of Kirtinath Kurtkoti

The inaugural title, Courtesy of Criticism, brings to light the intellectual legacy of Kirtinath Kurtkoti, one of India’s most celebrated literary critics. Translated by Kamalakar Bhat, this work not only explores Kannada literature’s profound depths but also examines universal themes that transcend cultural and temporal boundaries.

A Literary Journey Through Time
In three distinct sections—Literary HistoryLiterary Theory, and Literary Criticism—Kurtkoti takes readers on an intellectual voyage through Kannada’s rich traditions and its modern transformations. From the lyrical brilliance of D.R. Bendre to the dramatic innovations of Girish Karnad, the book offers incisive critiques that resonate with the universal human experience.

A Visionary’s Canvas
Kurtkoti’s writing exemplifies the art of thoughtful criticism. He approaches literature as both a mirror of society and a bridge to timeless philosophical inquiries. As cultural divisions grow more pronounced in the modern era, Courtesy of Criticism reminds us of literature’s role in fostering dialogue and understanding.

About the Author
Kirtinath Kurtkoti (1928-2003) was an iconic figure in Kannada literature, whose career spanned decades and included work as a scholar, playwright, and translator.

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