Bengali , Marathi languages and cultures share similarities in more ways than one. Both languages have abundant literature in various spheres like arts and culture, devotional and film music, drama etc. Thus many get motivated to learn other language. To cement this relationship between the two cultures and languages, Mandira Ganguly from Nagpur has worked on a unique dictionary that translates Bengali to Marathi. With a whopping word count of more than 24,000, this dictionary is positioned to bring the two languages further closer to each other.
Many Marathi speaking people are desirous of learning Bengali language, but cannot read the Bangla script. Similarly, the new generation of Bengali families who have stayed in Maharashtra for a long time are unable to read Bengali. All these people will find solace in the dictionary that Ganguly has worked on. The original Bengali word written in Bengali script, the same word in Devanagari script, the correct pronunciation of the word in Devanagari, and meaning of the word in Marathi. This has been done for better understanding of the language. It also allows to enthusiasts to peep into the Bangla script. To add to this enthusiasm around 250 Marathi proverbs with the similar meaning Bengali proverbs have also been included in this exhaustive work. The dictionary lists around 60 objects along with its Bengali name and a picture that are found in West Bengal but not in Maharashtra.
As compared to Marathi, Bengali grammar is fairly simple and leaner. About 20 pages on information in Marathi that elaborates the nuances of Bengali grammar have been included for our readers. The Bengali pronunciation have been neatly explained in the dictionary.
Highlights of Bengali – Marathi Dictionary
a) Translation of Marathi months, dishes and vegetables
b) 800 pages dictionary
c) Eight years of work behind this mammoth project
d) Useful for people speaking either of the two languages
e) Coverage of Bengali grammar and pronunciations.
“We have been staying in Maharshtra from past 43 years. Maharashtra, people here, Marathi language and culture welcomed us with open arms. This dictionary can be looked at as a small token return gift for all the love I have received and continue to receive here†Ganguly said..
Besides Ganguly , Dr Veena Ganu, Pramodini Tapas and Minal Joshi have also worked on the dictionary. Senior philologist Divakar Mohni has extended his guidance for this project. Dr Madhavi Bhatt was pivotal in keeping the morale of the entire team high throughout with her unwavering support.
Ganguly has been conducting free classes to teach Bengali language for the past twenty years. She is the National Vice-President of Nikhil Banga Sahitya Sammelan.
This dictionary has been published by Sahitya Prasar Kendra, Nagpur. It will soon be available in the market.
