With the Central Government taking steps to promote regional languages so that members of both the houses can speak in the mother tongues in the Parliament, the demand for language experts and interpreters is on the rise. Ranchi girl 29- year old Prity Priya Marandi is the first person to be associated with the Rajya Sabha Secretariat as a Santhali interpreter.
“I came to know about this job through a news channel. Initially I was selected as a language expert and started translating speeches. Few months later, I was trained for a month on live interpreting. Currently I do both as and when the Secretariat requires,” said Prity.
In December 2019, Prity got an opportunity to translate for a member of the Rajya Sabha- Sarojini Hembram, from Santhali to Hindi
“When I got a chance to work with the Rajya Sabha, there was a concern for my language since Santhali is a major tribal language and it should be known not just in Jharkhand but across the country. I felt that when the government is keen to promote it then I too should be a part of it,” added the interpreter.
Marandi is of the opinion that language and culture are the main factors that keep a society alive and dynamic.
“This is applicable for all the tribal languages of Jharkhand. I believe that constitutional recognition and political encouragement will go a long way in spreading a language,” remarked Prity.
The language expert strongly feels that the government should take initiatives to educate in regional languages as well.
“Because I am a student and a research scholar in Hindi literature, I know how important a language is. Jharkhand has more than 30 tribal languages. When a tribal child steps into school, he or she does not understand Hindi which needs to dealt with. The State should take steps regarding the introduction of regional languages in schools and colleges,” believes Prity.
Born in Tinpahar in the district of Sahebganj, Jharkhand, Prity completed her schooling from St Teresa’s School in Dumka. She is a gold medalist in Hindi honours from St Xavier’s College, Ranchi and is a post graduate in Hindi literature from Jawaharlal Nehru University. Presently she is pursuing her M.Phil on the topic ‘Aadiwasi patrika mein abhivyakt aadiwasi samaaj aur sanskriti’ from JNU.
“Whatever I have achieved is because of the immense support from my parents and siblings. They are my backbone and today they are very proud of my achievements,” added Priya.
Her father Late Suphal Marandi was employed with the railways while her mother Sirila Murmu is a member of the district council.
