‘Rajali Sandeshaya’; the lengthiest Kavya Sandesha in literary history
unveils at Nelum Pokuna
September 07, 2024
- Long Sinhala Collection: A poetic reflection experiences from Independence to the end of terrorism in Sri Lanka
‘Rajali Sandeshaya’, the longest Kavya Sandesha (Anthology of poems) in Sri Lanka’s literary history consisting of 2579 poems, authored by Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne was launched at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre on his birthday on September 06.
This epic anthology serves as a poignant reflection of Sri Lanka’s harrowing battle against LTTE terrorism, intricately weaving together historical events and Gen. Gunaratne’s personal experiences as a military officer during the war.
The unveiling of this work marks a significant contribution to both Sri Lankan literature and the nation’s collective memory of a painful yet triumphant chapter in its modern history. Gen. Gunaratne is one of the pioneering writers who have enriched Sri Lankan literature with many masterpieces.
General Gunaratne and Mrs. Chithrani Gunaratne had the distinct honour of presenting the inaugural copy of the literary work to the Ven. Maha Sanga. Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, Mrs. Lali Kobbekaduwa and Mrs. Manel Wimalarathne, the spouses of great war veterans Lt. Gen. Denzil Kobbekaduwa and Maj. Gen. Vijaya Wimalaratne and disabled war heroes from ‘Abimansala’ were presented with a copy of the book.
The event also featured insightful keynote addresses delivered by Prof. Praneeth Abeysundara and Ven. Induragare Dhammarathana Thero, who provided perspectives on the literary significance of the newly unveiled work.
Further underscoring the importance of these literary contributions, a copy of the book was generously donated to the library of Ananda College. The principal, Mr. Lal Dissanayake, graciously accepted this valuable contribution on behalf of the school.
‘Rajali Sandeshaya’ draws inspiration from Sri Lanka’s ancient Kavya Sandesha tradition, where messages are conveyed through poetic symbolism, often carried by birds. In this work, Gen. Gunaratne blends this traditional format with modern themes of poetry.
The poems focus on the brutal LTTE terrorist conflict, which engulfed the nation in death and destruction for three decades. Gen. Gunaratne, a decorated military officer who played a crucial role in the final stages of the civil war, employs this poetic form to narrate the brave actions, sacrifices, and courage of the Sri Lankan military as they fought to liberate the nation from terrorism.
Drawing from his own experiences, he paints vivid pictures of the battlefield, recounting both the horrors of war and the strength of the men and women who defended their homeland.
‘Rajali Sandeshaya’ serves as a tribute to those who fought against brutal terrorism and a somber reminder of the suffering endured by civilians caught in the crossfire. Gen. Gunaratne’s first-hand experiences lend authenticity and emotional depth to the poems, allowing readers to grasp the gravity of the war and the immense sacrifices made to preserve Sri Lanka’s sovereignty.
The event attracted a diverse and distinguished audience, including the Ven. Maha Sanga, the Chief of Defence Staff, Tri Forces Commanders, Academics, Artists and other notable guests.
