Tolstoy from the Perspective of a Kurdish Translator; A New Narrative Held in Baneh

According to the correspondent of Iran Book News Agency (IBNA) in Baneh, the review and unveiling ceremony of the Kurdish translation of the book ‘The Prophet and Islam from Tolstoy’s Perspective’ was held on Monday evening by the efforts of the Baneh Public Libraries Department, with a wide presence of culture, literature, and thought enthusiasts at the Nabi Akram (PBUH) Public Library.

In this program, attended by over a hundred book enthusiasts, a group of city officials, heads of departments, academics, members of literary associations, poets, writers, and religious scholars, the importance of translating valuable global works into Kurdish and its role in the cultural development of society was emphasized.

The head of the Baneh Public Libraries Department, in this ceremony, emphasized the role of books and writing in promoting public awareness, stating: ‘Translating great global works into Kurdish is an important step in strengthening cultural identity and intellectual development of society.’

Bahauddin Qurani considered public libraries as vibrant and effective centers for connecting generations and spreading reading culture. He added: ‘These centers, by providing equal access to knowledge resources and creating a dynamic space for the exchange of ideas, play a significant role in nurturing an informed generation and strengthening the cultural capital of society.’

He emphasized: ‘Libraries are not just places for lending books, but also serve as bases for dialogue, education, and cultural literacy promotion, increasing public participation in intellectual and social development.’

Abdolrahim Ketabi, the book’s translator, also provided explanations regarding the translation process, the characteristics of the original text, and Leo Tolstoy’s view on the conduct of the Prophet of Islam (PBUH).

Jalal Raoufi and Mohammad Seddiq Karimpour, two local writers and researchers, continued by examining the historical, literary, and spiritual dimensions of the book and shared their analyses of the Russian author’s approach to Islam and the Prophet (PBUH) with the audience.

The official unveiling section was held with the presence of the Deputy Governor for Planning and Development of Baneh and a group of special guests.

Finally, the translator signed copies of the book for enthusiasts, and attendees engaged in friendly discussions with the writers and researchers.

This program was held to support local translators and authors and promote the culture of reading, providing an opportunity for the audience to become closely acquainted with the Kurdish translation of one of the world’s important intellectual works.