Ceylon Literary and Arts Festival inauguration day and the following day was a huge success and a bold statement on a garden-fresh lit-fest that bloomed in Sri Lankan soil, with a destiny to become a gigantic evergreen forest that people would remember in fables. The much-anticipated lit-fest that launched in Trinity College Kandy heralded two days of cultural extravaganza, intellectual discourse, and artistic celebration within the rich valley in Kandy.

And Feb 10, 2024, that is tomorrow, will mark the third day of CLF, again curated by the esteemed author Ashok Ferrey, with promises to be a rendezvous of literary giants, both local and international, converging to explore the diverse realms of literature and art.

The festival’s third day will also feature a captivating lineup of predominantly international authors engaging in enlightening conversations. These cleverly themed curated sessions will delve into contemporary topics such as body image’s role in literature, the allure of murder mysteries, or the intricacies of screenwriting.

Among the highlights of tomorrow’s events is “Tall Story, Short Story,” where literary luminaries Lal Medawattegedara, Ciara Mandulee Mendis, and current Gratiaen winner Chiranthi Rajapakse will unravel the complexities of crafting a compelling short story. The festival will also host discussions on prestigious literary awards, including “Is your Booker Bigger than Mine?” where Shehan Karunatilaka, 2022 Booker Prize winner, shares insights into his literary journey.

The program features a diverse range of sessions, from James Braxton’s exploration of antiques and his upcoming trilogy set in Sri Lanka to William Dalrymple’s fascinating narrative of “The Anarchy,” unravelling the disintegration of the Mughal Empire and the rise of the East India Company.

Noteworthy is the inclusion of renowned fashion designer Nicole Farhi, who will share insights into her transition from the world of high fashion to sculpting. Iconic Sri Lankan author Shyam Selvadurai will also talk on his latest work, “Mansions of the Moon,” offering a unique perspective on the life of the Buddha.

The festival extends its embrace to the younger audience with a dedicated Children’s Festival. Creative writing workshops, arts and crafts sessions, and vocal training with “Music Makers” will provide a holistic experience for children to explore their creativity and artistic talents.

As the festival unfolds, it promises to not only showcase the richness of Sri Lankan literature and arts but also position the nation as a dynamic cultural hub on the global stage. The Ceylon Literary and Arts Festival is poised to be a celebration of intellectual curiosity, artistic expression, and the enduring power of storytelling.

By Pathum Punchihewa