https://doi.org/10.67147/literariness.v1si1.005
Are Intersemiotic Translations Destroying the Essence of the Original Story? A Case Study on Nashtapetta Neelambari and Mazha
NIYUKTHA PRAVEEN
Assistant Professor
Department of Journalism
Saraswathi College of Arts and Science, Vilappilsala, Kerala
Niyuktha12345@gmail.com
Abstract: Nashtapetta Neelambari, a short story by Madhavikutty, is known for its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of human relationships. The story revolves around Dr. Subhadra, Ramanuja Shastri, and Chandrashekhara Menon, exploring themes such as love, heartbreak, music, possessiveness, and other facets of human nature. Its simplicity and emotional resonance allow readers to identify with the characters and their experiences.
Lenin Rajendran’s Mazha (2000) is an intersemiotic translation of Nashtapetta Neelambari. Featuring Samyuktha Varma, Biju Menon, and Lal in lead roles, the film expanded the brief narrative into a full-length feature and received critical acclaim, including a National Award. However, the adaptation introduced significant changes to the original story, leading some critics to argue that it diminished the importance of the source text and altered the characterization of the protagonist.
This paper examines the relationship between Madhavikutty’s Nashtapetta Neelambari and Lenin Rajendran’s Mazha to explore a central question: Do intersemiotic translations preserve the essence of the original work, or do they transform it beyond recognition? Through a comparative analysis, the study investigates whether the film adaptation retains or departs from the spirit of the original story.
Keywords: Nashtapetta Neelambari; Intersemiotic Translation; Translation; Madhavikutty; Lenin Rajendran
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