Sahitya Akademi released the Hindi translation of the acclaimed Lithuanian novel “The Last Day”– titled “Antim Din”, marking a major milestone in India–Lithuania literary collaboration. This is the first-ever Lithuanian fiction work translated into Hindi language.
Written by Lithuanian–Ukrainian author Jaroslavas Melnikas, the novel explores profound themes of existential change, human consciousness, and cultural identity.
The translation was launched in collaboration with the Embassy of Lithuania in New Delhi, symbolizing India’s growing role in cross-cultural literary exchange and the Akademi’s mission to bring world literature to Indian readers.
Cultural and Diplomatic Significance
This release aligns with the Sahitya Akademi’s mission of fostering international literary dialogue and promoting translations that bridge linguistic and cultural boundaries.
It also reflects India’s soft diplomacy through literature, reinforcing the nation’s image as a global cultural hub that celebrates literary diversity and inclusivity.
Enhances India’s cultural outreach in Europe, especially in the Baltic region. Reinforces the Sahitya Akademi’s global vision — making India both a literary exporter and importer of world literature.
The collaboration with Lithuania highlights the deepening of bilateral cultural cooperation, encouraging literary exchanges, author residencies, and academic translations between the two nations.
About Author– Jaroslavas Melnikas
- A Lithuanian–Ukrainian novelist, philosopher, and essayist known for his thought-provoking works on human consciousness and society.
- His fiction often blends philosophical realism and dystopian themes, exploring how individuals respond to societal transformation.
- The Last Day is among his most celebrated novels, widely translated into several European languages.
About Sahitya Akademi
| Aspect | Details |
| Full Name | Sahitya Akademi (National Academy of Letters) |
| Founded | 12 March 1954 |
| Status | Autonomous organization under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India |
| Headquarters | Rabindra Bhavan, New Delhi |
| Legal Status | Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 |
| Languages Covered | 24 (including the 22 from the Eighth Schedule, plus English and Rajasthani) |
Mandate and Activities
- Sahitya Akademi Motto: “Indian literature is one though written in many languages.”
- Promotes and preserves Indian literature in all languages.
- Publishes books, journals, and the Encyclopaedia of Indian Literature.
- Organises seminars, workshops, and literary meets across the country.
- Extends research and travel grants to authors and translators.
- Operates one of India’s largest multilingual libraries.
Publications
- Indian Literature (English, bimonthly journal)
- Samkaleen Bharatiya Sahitya (Hindi, bimonthly journal)
Sahitya Akademi Award:
- Presented annually for outstanding literary works in the 24 recognised languages.
- Each awardee receives a plaque, shawl, and ₹1 lakh in cash.
Sahitya Akademi Fellowship:
- The highest honour of the Akademi, conferred for lifetime achievement in literature.
Lithuania
- Lithuania Capital: Vilnius
- Lithuania Currency: Euro (€)
India–Lithuania Relations:
- Diplomatic relations established in 1992.
- Bilateral cooperation includes education, IT, and culture.
- Lithuania hosts one of the oldest Indian study centres in Eastern Europe (Vilnius University).