The Asian Review Sinhala offers an exceptional platform for Sri Lankan authors to showcase their literary works through weekly discussions in Gampaha, Western Province. This comprehensive guide outlines the submission process for authors, publishers, and literary advocates seeking to participate in this prestigious event series.
About The Asian Review Sinhala
The Asian Review Sinhala operates as the Sinhala edition of The Asian Review, serving the unique cultural and linguistic needs of Sri Lankan readers and writers. The organisation’s mission centers on ensuring equitable access to literary arts and culture, irrespective of individual preferences, political opinions, creed, ethnicity, caste, or genre preferences.
These weekly literary discussions promote literature across all genres, primarily in Sinhala, with occasional events in other Sri Lankan languages when facilities are available. The events serve multiple purposes: providing platforms for established authors, offering opportunities for emerging writers, and creating vibrant literary communities that transcend traditional barriers.
Critical Submission Timeline
Understanding the submission timeline is crucial for successful participation:
Week 6 (Minimum 6 weeks before desired event date): Initial request submission deadline. This early timeline allows adequate time for careful review, event planning, venue booking, and promotional material preparation.
Week 5: All required materials must reach the official email address (theasianreviewsinhala@gmail.com) by close of business on Friday. Late submissions are automatically deferred to the next available slot, minimum three months later.
Week 3: The Asian Review team sends confirmation via email or WhatsApp containing event details, expectations, and final requirements. Authors must reconfirm within 48 hours of receiving confirmation.
Who Can Submit
Submissions may come from four sources:
- Author’s publisher
- Authors themselves
- Third parties (literary agents, cultural organisations, or community groups)
All authors across Sri Lanka have access to the event series, regardless of location, publishing history, or literary reputation. The selection process focuses purely on literary merit, audience interest, and the author’s ability to engage meaningfully with readers.
Required Submission Materials
Author Materials
Video Invitation Clip: A 40-55 sec professionally shot or high-quality smartphone recording featuring the author speaking directly to potential attendees about their work and the upcoming event. This serves as primary promotional material.
Reading Clips: Submit minimum 1, maximum 3 clips, each 40-55 sec long, showcasing different aspects of your work. Ensure clear audio and good lighting, as these clips help audiences decide whether to attend.
High-Resolution Author Photograph: Provide a minimum 300 DPI headshot suitable for both digital and print promotion. The photograph should be recent and accurately represent your current appearance.
Author Biography: Submit a 100 word biography written in third person, including literary achievements, published works, awards, educational background, and current projects. This biography will be used for promotional purposes.
Speaker Nomination: Provide contact details and brief biography of the person who will introduce you or facilitate the discussion, ensuring smooth event flow and professional presentation.
Format Requirements
All materials must meet professional standards. Video and audio clips must have clear sound with minimal background noise and appropriate lighting. Photographs must be suitable for promotional use across various media platforms, including social media, print advertisements, and venue displays. Text materials should be provided in both Sinhala and English where applicable.
Access Policy and Principles
The Asian Review Sinhala operates on core principles of inclusivity and free access. All events remain free to the public, removing financial barriers that might prevent community participation. The organisation maintains strict neutrality on political and social issues while celebrating diversity through literature.
Important Restrictions and Policies
Cancellation Policy: Events cannot be cancelled once confirmed, ensuring reliability for audiences and venue management. Cancellation is only permitted for circumstances of utmost urgency, including serious illness, family emergencies, or natural disasters. Cancelled events must be rescheduled minimum 3 months after cancellation communication.
Book Sales: Books are sold based on agreed percentages between the organisation and the author’s publisher, following industry-standard arrangements. Sales cannot be influenced by third parties, ensuring that book selection remains based purely on literary merit and audience interest.
Contact Information
Primary Submission Email: theasianreviewsinhala@gmail.com
- Monitored daily during business hours (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday)
- Automated acknowledgement within one hour
- Detailed responses within 24 hours for routine enquiries
Complaints and Redress: services@asian-reviews.com
- Independent complaints officer handles all concerns
- Complaints acknowledged within 2 hours during business days
Executive Contact: Dr Nadeera Nilupamiali, CEO, The Asian Journal of Literature: nadeera.nilupamali@immunify.me
- Available for urgent matters and serious conduct violations
- Response within 12 hours for urgent matters
Hasintha Thilakaretne













