Islamabad (Khyber Mail): The Pakistan Academy of Letters celebrated the launch of the Urdu translation of Portuguese author José Luís Peixoto’s acclaimed novel Nenhum Olhar (Blank Gaze) at an event graced by Portugal’s Ambassador, Frederico Silva.
The novel, translated into Urdu as Viran Nazar by renowned Pakistani author Muhammad Atif Alam, marks a significant cultural exchange between Portugal and Pakistan. The project, initiated by the Pakistan Academy of Letters under Chairperson Najeeba Arif and Director General Sultan Nasir, reflects the growing literary ties between the two nations.
Ambassador Frederico Silva lauded the translation as a bridge between cultures, bringing the evocative storytelling of one of Portugal’s most celebrated authors to a new audience. The initiative follows a series of literary interactions in 2024 between the Embassy of Portugal, José Luís Peixoto, and the Pakistan Academy of Letters in Islamabad.
Peixoto’s debut novel, Blank Gaze, is celebrated for its profound exploration of human emotions and relationships, earning him the José Saramago Literary Prize in 2001. His works, translated into over 30 languages, have captivated audiences worldwide.
This translation adds to a growing collection of Portuguese literature available in Urdu, including works by literary giants like José Saramago and Fernando Pessoa. Such initiatives not only introduce Portuguese literary treasures to Urdu readers but also strengthen cultural and literary bonds between Pakistan and Portugal.
The Pakistan Academy of Letters reiterated its commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding through literature, celebrating this translation as another milestone in fostering global literary appreciation.