On June 1st, the literary community gathered with great anticipation for the 31st Gratiaen Prize ceremony, an event that celebrated the best in English creative writing by Sri Lankan authors. Amidst fierce competition, Ramya Jirasinghe’s novel, Father Cabraal’s Recipe for Love Cake, emerged as the winner, marking a significant achievement in her literary career.
The Gratiaen Prize, established in 1992 by the renowned author Michael Ondaatje, aims to recognize and promote Sri Lankan writing in English. This prestigious award has a history of spotlighting exceptional talent and encouraging a diverse range of voices within Sri Lankan literature. Each year, the ceremony brings together authors, critics, and literary enthusiasts, creating a vibrant space for celebrating the richness of Sri Lankan storytelling.
This year’s event was no exception. Held in a virtual format due to ongoing global health concerns, the ceremony maintained its tradition of honoring literary excellence. The judges, comprising eminent literary figures, had the daunting task of selecting a winner from a pool of highly talented writers. The shortlist featured an eclectic mix of novels, poetry, and short stories, each reflecting the unique cultural and social fabric of Sri Lanka.
Ramya Jirasinghe’s Father Cabraal’s Recipe for Love Cake stood out for its compelling narrative and profound exploration of human emotions. The novel intertwines themes of love, tradition, and identity, offering readers a poignant and immersive experience. Jirasinghe’s skillful storytelling and nuanced character development captivated the judges, earning her the top honor.
In her acceptance speech, Jirasinghe expressed her gratitude to the Gratiaen Trust and the literary community for their support. She highlighted the importance of literary prizes in nurturing writers and fostering a culture of reading and appreciation for literature. Jirasinghe dedicated her award to her family and mentors, acknowledging their unwavering encouragement throughout her writing journey.
The announcement of Jirasinghe’s win was met with widespread acclaim. Fellow writers and literary critics praised her work for its originality and emotional depth. Many noted that Father Cabraal’s Recipe for Love Cake is a testament to the vibrancy of contemporary Sri Lankan literature, showcasing the country’s ability to produce world-class literary works.
As the evening drew to a close, the Gratiaen Prize ceremony reaffirmed its role as a beacon of literary excellence in Sri Lanka. The event not only celebrated the achievements of individual authors but also highlighted the collective talent and creativity of the Sri Lankan literary community. Ramya Jirasinghe’s victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring writers, demonstrating that with passion and dedication, the art of storytelling can transcend boundaries and touch the hearts of readers worldwide.
The 31st Gratiaen Prize ceremony will be remembered for its celebration of literary brilliance and its recognition of Ramya Jirasinghe’s remarkable contribution to Sri Lankan literature. Father Cabraal’s Recipe for Love Cake now joins the esteemed ranks of previous winners, continuing the legacy of the Gratiaen Prize in honoring the best in English creative writing by Sri Lankan authors.
