Award-winning actress turned author Anoma Janadare became the hot topic in the arts scene when she launched her controversial book ‘Punarukthi’ two years ago. Anoma is now ready to launch the English version of the book this Friday at the Lakshman Kadirgamar Centre, Colombo 7.

“I turned author in 2011 though my profession was acting. Prior to that I had published a collection of my short stories. Only you can write about your own life story and so did I. I was honest in my mission and that triggered a lot of controversy. Eventually the book became the top seller that year. The feedback I got was positive. It was considered an attempt to open the eyes of the society to protect the girl child from the vicious society . Even today my book is being bought somewhere in the country. The title ‘Punarukthi’ means retelling. The book was written to retell my story that cannot be denied or suppressed. It is the story of my life that was shattered and tormented by the heinous, degrading acts of others ,” said Anoma.

Why did you want to translate it into English?

It was a book that shook the Sinhala audience, so why not publish it in an international language? There is no country in the world sans child abuse. I want to share my story with the international community. I remember the novel ‘Kantharaye Kusuma’ (Desert Flower) which also shook the whole world. Unless such stories reach the global audience, we cannot expect to put a full stop to violence and abuse against children. As an artiste I feel I am duty-bound to make such a contribution.

Who did the English translation of Punarukthi?

It was done by Krishan Jeyaratnam who is no stranger to the English theatre.

You once said that this book would make an ideal plot for a film?

Yes, this will indeed make a good theme for a film. So far two filmmakers have approached me with such an idea but I was a bit hesitant. If a good male or female director with some cinematic track record seeks the book, I would be pleased to oblige. In today’s society, so-called female writers generally campaign for the rights of other women but their own stories are suppressed. I feel all women who are victimised in society should stand up and voice their concerns.

By Vasantha Wimalasinghe