Padma Viswanathan, the talented and acclaimed translator, has once again been recognized for her exceptional work. She has been longlisted for the International Booker Prize 2026 for her translation of Ana Paula Maia’s thought-provoking novel, ‘On Earth As It Is Beneath’. This remarkable recognition is a testament to Viswanathan’s mastery in translating complex narratives that delve into the human psyche.
‘On Earth As It Is Beneath’ is a powerful and haunting tale set in a penal colony deeply scarred by the remnants of slavery. The novel portrays the tragic reality of life in the colony through the eyes of the protagonist, a slave who is forced to endure unimaginable cruelties. Maia’s writing is raw, emotional, and thought-provoking, and Viswanathan’s translation has beautifully captured the essence of the novel.
Viswanathan’s talent as a translator is truly remarkable. She has brilliantly captured the nuances of the Portuguese language and vividly brought the story to life for English readers. Her translation brilliantly captures the rich cultural nuances and the raw emotions of the characters, making it a compelling read for all.
This is not the first time that Viswanathan’s work has been recognized on an international level. She has been shortlisted for several prestigious literary awards, including the National Book Award and the Commonwealth Writers Prize. Her translations have been praised by critics for their exceptional quality and authenticity.
Viswanathan’s journey to becoming a renowned translator is a testament to her passion and dedication to her craft. She holds a Master’s degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Alberta and has studied literature at esteemed institutions such as Yale University, Ecole Normale Supérieure in Paris, and the University of Poitiers. She has also taught literature and creative writing at various universities in Canada, the United States, and India.
Her translation of ‘On Earth As It Is Beneath’ has received widespread acclaim from readers and literary experts alike. The novel has been described as a deeply moving and haunting exploration of the human condition, with Maia’s powerful prose and Viswanathan’s exceptional translation leaving a lasting impact on readers.
The International Booker Prize, formerly known as the Man Booker International Prize, is a prestigious award that recognizes the best works of fiction translated into English from any language. It is awarded every two years to a single book, with both the author and translator receiving equal recognition. The prize is known for its rigorous judging process and has previously honored esteemed authors and translators such as Jokha Alharthi, David Grossman, and Olga Tokarczuk.
Being longlisted for this coveted award is a major accomplishment for any literary translator, and Viswanathan’s inclusion amongst the esteemed list of nominees is a true testament to her exceptional talent and hard work. It is a recognition of her efforts in bringing diverse and compelling stories to English readers and bridging the gap between cultures through literature.
Viswanathan’s translation of ‘On Earth As It Is Beneath’ is not only a remarkable achievement for her but also for the literary world. It brings to light the powerful and poignant story of the penal colony and shines a light on the devastating impact of slavery on individuals and communities. It is a testament to the power of literature in creating awareness and promoting understanding and empathy.
As we eagerly await the announcement of the shortlist and eventual winner of the International Booker Prize 2026, let us acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable work of Padma Viswanathan. Her masterful translation of ‘On Earth As It Is Beneath’ has captured the hearts and minds of readers, and we can only hope for more exceptional translations from her in the future.
