- First Sinhala-language book to be launched in NZ
Jayantha Samarasekera is a Sri Lankan writer now living in New Zealand, and his collection of short stories and poems titled Tutariyei Master is the first book written in Sinhala to be launched in New Zealand.
The book was released on 23 October, and includes short stories and poems that were published in Sri Lankan newspapers. After a commemorative ceremony for the Sri Lankan politician considered the Father of Free Education Dr. C.W.W. Kannangara, the book launch commenced.
The Chief Guest of the event was Prof. Ravi Gunaratne, a distinguished professor who served at Lincoln University, New Zealand for 34 years and retired with Emeritus, and the first book was presented to him.
Manjula Premaratne, a scientist by profession, and Nilmini Thilakaratne, a lecturer, delivered two insight lectures on the content of the book along with literature and entertainment, and Kalana Kumarasiri explained the sweet taste of literature among the youth.
Photos © Sanka Vidanagama
