Vikram Seth Translates 'Hanuman Chalisa' In New Bilingual Edition

Eminent author Vikram Seth has penned an English translation of the revered Hindu hymn "Hanuman Chalisa." Announced by Speaking Tiger publishing house on Sunday, the bilingual edition of ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ features the original verses in both Devanagari and Roman scripts alongside Seth's own English translation. The book is set to be released later this month, making this beloved prayer accessible to a wider audience.

The "Hanuman Chalisa", written by 16th-century poet and saint Tulsidas, is one of the most popular Hindu devotional hymns dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It comprises 40 verses. Many millions recite it by heart in times of joy or sorrow, success or distress, and when they are in need of courage.

"Vikram Seth as acclaimed and popular a poet as he is a novelist spent some years translating this beloved classic into English, in rhyme and meter. The result is a flawless translation which has the magical incantatory quality of the original Awadhi. Millions can now recite this first ever literary translation of the Chalisa in English," the publishers said in a statement.

One of the most celebrated writers of our time, Seth is the author of three popular novels "The Golden Gate'', "A Suitable Boy" and “An Equal Music” and two works of non-fiction. He has also written seven books of poetry, including the bestselling "All You Who Sleep Tonight" and "Beastly Tales from Here and There".