The Gratiaen Prize 2024 was awarded to Ramya Jirasinghe for her novel ‘Father Cabraal’s Recipe for Love Cake’ on June 1. Jirasinghe has been shortlisted for the Gratiaen Prize multiple times since 1999.
The Gratiaen Trust has broadened its mandate over the past five years to include numerous genres. The Trust established partnerships with the John Keells Foundation and the British Council.
John Keells Group President Nadija Thambiah highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to empowering the nation through projects that promote social cohesion and cultural understanding.
“We believe that the arts, particularly literature, play an essential role in fostering self-awareness and understanding. Our partnership with the Gratiaen Trust aligns with these goals,” she said.
Country Director for Sri Lanka at the British Council Orlando Edwards noted the long-standing partnership between the British Council and the Gratiaen Trust. “For 31 years, we have supported the Gratiaen Trust, promoting literary projects and English language education across Sri Lanka. We are proud to see the remarkable talent emerging from this country,” Edwards remarked. The jury, led by Dr. Anthony Joseph, commended the technical excellence, stylistic innovation, and deep humanity in the shortlisted works. “The most powerful writing is convincing, believable, and authentic. We look for writers who challenge readers and celebrate Sri Lanka’s diversity,” Joseph explained in his report.
Winner Jirasinghe expressed her gratitude and surprise. “I have been fairly unlucky with the Gratiaen, so I never expected to be standing here. This year had a very strong shortlist. Thank you to the judges and everyone who made this moment possible,” she said in her acceptance speech.
The post Ramya Jirasinghe wins 31st Gratiaen Prize appeared first on DailyNews.