This anthology investigates whether the traditional principles of translation are applicable within the complex, multilingual framework of Indian society. Rita Kothari, a scholar of translation and cultural studies, compiles a diverse range of perspectives from theorists, practitioners, philosophers, and historians to challenge the Western-centric definition of a 'source' text. The work argues that in India, translation is not merely a linguistic task but an all-pervasive social act that reveals the inherent fluidity and fragility of language itself.

Scholars and students of translation studies frequently cite this text for its ability to deconstruct rigid academic assumptions regarding language boundaries. Experts highlight this anthology as a necessary intervention for those studying the intersection of post-colonial identity and linguistic practice in South Asia.