A & K Lit Fest – capturing the quintessence of Sri Lankan literature..

An event truly designed to promote Sri Lankan literature, The Annasi & Kadalagotu Literature  Festival (A & K Lit Fest), was held on Saturday,  the 25th of April at the Western Province Aesthetic Resort. Apart from the availability of an interesting variety of books, especially at the  A & K bookstall, there were also panel discussions which attracted quite an audience.

The likes of Shehan Karunathilake, Jean Arasanayagam, Manuka Wijesinghe, Bradman Weerakoon, Tissa Jayatilaka and more esteemed personalities headed the discussions providing interesting insights  for enthusiastic readers, writers and lovers of literature in general. Some of the themes that were addressed in the panels were blogging in Sri Lanka, power of expression, ‘broken English’, youth literature and the feminine presence in Sri Lankan literature.

A talk headed by Shehan Karunathilake about ‘Insights from a Writer’s Creative Process’ was  found both interesting as well as enlightening while Chandima Rajapathirana’s book launch, “My Journey with Autism” proved to be an  eye opener for many. Vishnu Vasu’s heart touching documentary film, “Butterfly”, revolving around the stories of Sri Lankan child soldiers, was also viewed with much attention.

The best part of the lit fest was the fact that it gave easy access to a large cross section of society as a ticket was only Rs. 100/-. Also, the prominence it gave Sinhala and Tamil literature was very encouraging. To encapsulate  that unique Sri Lankan flavour, Annasi (achcharu) and Kadalagotu was being sold at the entrance with Sri Lankan music playing in the background.

A & K Lit. Fest : Your Views

Sunethra

It’s a fantastic initiative, convenient and accessible. It was a good opportunity to meet Sri Lankan authors. Shehan Karunathilake’s talk was very interesting and I’m a big fan of him. ‘Butterfly’ was also a good movie, very well done.

Sharika

It was great. I was very pleased with the attention given to Sinhala literature. I attended the Gratiaen Forum which was good. The short film – ‘Butterfly’ , was excellent. We were lucky enough to get a chance to speak to  the producer as well. Events like this should get more publicity. A very innovative idea.

Elspeth & Sophie

We loved it and it was really good. It was a great opportunity to learn about different mediums as well. Chandima opened our eyes from such a different perspective when he spoke of his experience with autism. There was variety and everything was so affordable, and catered to everyone. We felt that the event was very organized and the panelists themselves were so punctual.

Fahima

Excellent initiative. Hope the idea continues and grows. ‘Butterfly”  which was a tribute to child soldiers  who died in the war consisted of some beautiful images.

Tuan Shehan

Panels were very informative and the fact that all three languages were given the same prominence was good to see. “Butterfly” was superb. Chandima ‘s book launch about autism was also inspiring. I found the first panel, which was about blogging in Sri Lanka, very interesting. I myself am a blogger so I could relate to it. I’m sure, there will be quite a few who’ll seriously consider writing after this. Sri Lankans should get more involved in writing.

Chris

Fantastic effort by the organizers. Very thankful that the venue was chosen in Colombo. Glad that local languages were supported as well. It’s great to see that writing is encouraged.

Nishara

Lovely idea. The ticket was priced at a very reasonable amount as well. I love the fact that it caters to everyone. There was a particular panel that addressed  “broken English” which in my opinion, set off the tone for the festival. The atmosphere itself was relaxed and everyone was given complementary ‘kadalagotu’ after the opening ceremony  which gave quite a Sri Lankan feel to things. There were second hand book shops as well. Shehan’s talk was illuminating and his tips were very welcome. Good Luck to the organizers and hope they’ll continue their good work.

Ranika

Great initiative. ‘Butterfly’ was amazing. It gave  a realistic picture of what really happened during the war – this time focusing on child soldiers. It’s lovely to see that people have actually turned up and I love the fact that kadalagotu was being sold at the venue as well.

By Vajini H. Gunaratne
Photographs by Waruna Wanniarachchi