Features
Relevance of Anna Burns’ Milkman emphasized with its Sinhala translation
Nowadays are dragon riddled;/ The nightmare rides upon sleep;
A drunken soldier can leave the mother/ Murdered at her door
To crawl in her own blood. /And go scot free
by Y B Yeats
The quote was given me by Dr Lakshmi de Silva when I telephoned her to request her permission to mention her review of Swarnakanti Rajapakse’s translation of Anna Burns’ searingly written historical psychological novel on the troubles of Northern Ireland, published in May 2018. Swarnakanati’s translation, titled (in Sinhala of course) ‘Milkman Navakathawa’, highly commended by Dr Lakshmi de Silva, is more recent and it must be said that Swarnakanti is to be praised unstintingly for translating a complex book on a complex period of time with complexities of human psychology conveyed accurately. Most difficult it is, I suppose, to translate humour, particularly subtle and bitter humour as Burns introduces in her book. Is it any wonder that Swarnakanti won a literary award for her earlier translation of the massive ‘Anna Karenina’?
I wrote a comment on the book ‘Milkman’ and on Burns in this column in 2018 soon after she won the Booker Prize for the best work of fiction of the previous year. It also won the National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction as well as the 2020 International Dublin Literary Award. It was this Irish woman’s third novel. As the Irish Independent notes: “It’s an astute, exquisite account of Northern Ireland’s social landscape but Milkman is much more than that too … a potent and urgent book, with more than a hint of barely contained fury.” To quote another review: “Possibly the best novel from or about Northern Ireland in a decade. Certainly the one which peels back the skin of insidious sectarianism with shocking frankness…”
‘Milkman’ not at all an ordinary supplier of milk is a mysterious figure that somewhat stalks an 18-year old Irish girl amid troubled times. It received strongly positive reviews, with critics mostly praising the book’s narration, atmosphere, humor, and its complex portrayal of Northern Irish socio-politics. Dr Lakshmi de Silva commented that the translator to Sinhala – Swarnakanti – captured most of it.
Relevance:
The reader of this column may wonder why I titled my piece “Relevance….” since Sri Lanka is no longer under British colonialism, nor suffering violence at the hand of terrorists – both LTTE and JVP. Rather are we in the throes and thrall of Nature striking back with the raging Covid 9 pandemic and weather somewhat gone awry even in our sunny island.
But terrorism is always present. “This darkly comic novel, set in the seventies, takes place in a ‘hair trigger society’ of bomb scares, hijackings, protracted conflict.” Aren’t we in Sri Lanka so very familiar with these, and worse? During peace that followed the end of the civil war in 2009, we suffered further through political machination of white van abductions, killings, torturing, FEAR.
We had a violent taste of it on Easter Sunday 2019. Any day a mob of protestors – even teachers and principals of schools – could go berserk. Some fear we are on the way to becoming a colony of China with its ruthless government practices. Our own army is truly helpful and merciful now, rendering such polite help to millions being vaccinated. But it could be led and misdirected by a politician or military man going totally power hungry and resisting, nay over-riding the will and vote of the people. Terror occurs in isolated but far too many situations such as raping and setting fire to a poor innocent servant girl; even verbally sexually harassing women parliamentarians. Thus very unfortunately with human nature being so diverse, explosive and prone to violence, we are never safe and could easily experience cold fear like the 18-year old unnamed Irish girl in the novel ‘Milkman’.
Second relevance
A review I read said that ‘Milkman’ appeared to be up against better books. But chairman of the Booker judges, Kwame Anthony Appiah, judged thus: “…’its focus on men abusing power and what happens when rumors spiral out of control gives it wide resonance.”
As my evidence of the novel and its translation being relevant to us are the phrases “men abusing power” and “rumors spiral out of control”. We definitely suffer the male abuse of power in the home, in offices, in villages, in schools and universities, and even in Parliament. I cannot but mention the GMOA acquiring the A-Z vaccine held for a second dose for those inoculated in Feb/March; pradeshiya sabha members raping, even murdering (case at the Tangalla resort when a Britisher was killed); the passing of laws, rules and orders, now even verbally, that may not be in the best interests of the public, helpless to protest or protesting uselessly, like permitting by word of mouth the rape of forests and acquisition of land by those with political power; banning import of essential inorganic fertilizer. We also see how offenders of dire crimes go free due to being politically powerful or have political influence. It may not be the British Army crushing the Irish, nor avowed terrorist here in our country, but the drug mafia and ruffians covered by political clout are fearful, to mention but two menaces.
Needless to say social media and careless talk do create trouble even at present times, or even more so.
Third relevance to me is that Burns deals with a large family of first brother-in-law (suspect from page 1), second sister and third brother-in-law (good) and others which meant her fiction-family was large and of course not well off. We had large families when we were young and never called brothers-in-law by given name but Loku Aiya etc. None have names in Milkman, not even the narrator. Thus it is somewhat Good Earth like and resonates with us who often don’t use names to refer to relatives, first names at least. She does not even name the chap she hangs out with; he is maybe-boyfriend. Thus the translation particularly may resonate with the Sinhala readers who may feel proud of their family traditions.
The style of writing and language used are unique, yet to me friendly familiar. Page 3 has this:” So he spoke his words as we were going along one of the sides of the top-end reservoir…(That is so like an expression we locals use -‘almirah top’, ‘shoe bottom’). She writes: “Why was he presuming I didn’t mind him beside me when I did mind him beside me… I didn’t have those other thoughts until later, and I don’t mean an hour later, I mean twenty years later.” Thus with Swarnakanti catching and transferring these nuances of language and connotation in her translation, it will surely delight readers,
I must admit that in the original book, the style of writing being different to the usual, easy going narration we are familiar with, calls for getting used to. The language gets in the way until we become familiar with it and appreciate it. You savour the style and language as you savour the unraveling of the plot. It is very much a stream-of-consciousness narration.
As the Booker chief judge said. “But ‘Milkman’ also stood out thanks to Burns’ unique voice. There are moments when I had to read it out loud, just for the pleasure of it, the way it sounds.” He is said to have read it in a bad Ulster accent!
Thus the final relevance: the translation to Sinhala of an excellent modern book, though it surely would have proven extra difficult to translate – turn of phrase, humour, nuances and all. We have many translations of the classics like Dickens et al. Here is a different sort of novel made available to the Sinhala reading public. Praise be to Anna Burns of course, and then to Swarnakanti Rajapakse for ‘Milkman Navakathawa’ and to Dr Lakshmi de Silva for making known the translation to the English readership by having published her incisive critique of the translation a couple of weeks ago.
The present offer by the UK to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the missile technology field in particular comes as ‘a stitch in time’ and the initiative is also likely to be appreciated considerably by democratic opinion world wide for the possible morale-boosting effect it would have on Ukraine. Besides continuous arms support, the conviction that the world’s frontline democracies are behind it would prove a huge plus in Ukraine’s eyes in its grinding fightback against the Russian invasion.
While continued US support for Ukraine could not be considered ‘a given’ any more, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s words during a recent visit to Kyiv that the UK would stand by Ukraine ‘for as long as it takes’ is the kind of assurance that Ukraine needs at present. For, the conflict in Ukraine is essentially a war of liberation conducted by the latter against an invader and deeply at issue here is the upholding of International Law and its foundational concepts, such as national sovereignty and a nation’s right to political self-determination. The world of democracy is of the firm view that the latter ideals cannot be compromised, come what may.
The UK has its work cut out in this connection. It would find it difficult to convince the Trump administration that it should staunchly stand by Ukraine but it could campaign vigorously with the rest of the West and the EU fold in particular to unflaggingly support the embattled and over-run country.
Ukraine has shown an impressive adeptness in using drone technology in particular against her enemy and has even manufactured her own hardware in this respect but using the relevant blueprints handed over by the UK for the manufacture of more sophisticated cruise missiles, for instance, may prove financially difficult, going forward. It is left to be seen whether the UK and the rest of the West who are with Ukraine will continue to be with her, considering their own rising financial constraints.
The latter impediments could only multiply in the future. Oil, gas and energy prices are on the rise and the latter costs are glaringly reflected in kitchens and meal tables the world over. As we go along consumer discontent would steadily intensify and governments, East and West, would need to figure out with considerable rigour and foresight how such disaffection could be ably managed. Failing which, in most democratic societies, the chances are that publics would be out on the streets demanding that their grievances be redressed forthwith.
These rising concerns are reflected in a recent move by some EU governments to consider imposing what is described as ‘a windfall tax’ on the profits specified major oil companies operating within their shores have made in the wake of the US-Israel war on Iran. The rationale apparently is to use such tax earnings to cushion the rising cost of living of their publics and bolster the respective countries’ social expenditure.
In a recent letter to the president of the EU Council the EU governments referred to said, among other things, while drawing attention to the ‘discontent that is growing over the rising cost of living’: ‘A common approach’ is needed that ‘ensures those who profit from the crisis contribute their share to reducing the burden on the general population.’ Meanwhile, Oxfam with reference to the above development is on record as calling for a ‘permanent windfall tax of at least 50% on profits exceeding a 10% return on investment.’
Such are the rising economic pressures on the majority of Western governments. The question to be posed is how consistent they would be in their assistance to Ukraine if they decide consensually to stand by her. The soaring cost of living in the West compels the conclusion that there could be no guarantee that Western assistance to Ukraine, particularly in the defense and security fields, would be of a longstanding kind.
Of particular concern would be the fact that the weapons systems on offer from the UK to Ukraine could be increasingly costly to manufacture going forward. Besides they would need to be manufactured and put into action without delay.
However, these considerations should in no way deflect Ukraine’s supporters from the principled policy stance of defending her to the extent possible. Because at issue is the defense of International Law and the democratic system of government from their enemies; fascism and authoritarian rule.
While during World Wars 1 and 2 the US was with the major democracies of the West, this time around with regard to Ukraine, the US has chosen to be at cross-purposes with them. For instance, in relation to tariff matters and defense expenditure, in the NATO context, the US is pursuing a hard line which puts it at polar opposites with the West. Thus it is no longer possible to talk unreservedly of a ‘Western democratic alliance’. Put plainly, the cause of democratic development has been weakened.
A measure of relief for the supporters of Ukraine in the West could come by way of the upcoming mid-term polls in the US. If the Democratic Party fares well in them the pressure would be on the Trump administration to defer to opposition opinion at home, accommodate the best interests of Ukraine in its West European policy and perhaps even work towards a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis in cooperation with Russia. Accordingly, the Democratic Party would need to put the Trump administration on the defensive, so to speak.
Until such time Ukraine’s Western supporters have no choice but to remain committed to it, ensure its steadfast defense against the invasion and work judiciously towards keeping the economic pressures at home in check.
Interestingly, at the present juncture in international politics the US could be said to be more weak than strong. For example, it has to some extent been militarily humbled by Iran; so much so it is resorting to economic means to keep Iran in check.
In keeping with this strategy, the US has launched ‘a new big wave of anti-Iran economic sanctions’ at the time of writing, aimed at cutting Iran away from all its major income sources. Some of these relate to digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping. The hoped for result is the complete severance of Iran from the US dollar system.
However, while the UK and EU have no choice but to adhere to their policy of backing Ukraine, going forward they would need to dialogue more closely with the US and ensure that it cooperates with them on outstanding questions, such as Ukraine and the strengthening of democracy. The well being of the world is served when the latter aim is pursued.
OPA 39th Annual Conference calls for Sri Lanka to move Beyond Recovery towards Sustainable Transformation
The Orgnisation of Professional Associations (OPA) successfully concluded its 39th Annual Conference, held recently at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, under the theme “Envisioning Sri Lanka: Beyond Recovery”.
Held under the patronage of Jayantha Gallehewa, President of the OPA, with the leadership and guidance of Tisara De Silva, President-Elect and Chairman of the 39th Annual Conference, the Conference brought together leading professionals, academics, business leaders and representatives of the public and private sectors to deliberate on Sri Lanka’s next phase of national development.
The Inaugural Session, on August 2026, was graced by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, as the Chief Guest; Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, as the Guest of Honour; and Murtaza Jafferjee, Chairman of the Advocata Institute, Sri Lanka, as the Keynote Speaker.
In her address, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasised that overcoming the economic crisis alone should not be Sri Lanka’s ultimate objective, stressing that recovery must serve as the foundation for a broader economic and institutional transformation necessary for sustainable national progress. Reflecting on the difficult period experienced by the country, the Prime Minister noted that Sri Lanka had faced significant economic, social and institutional challenges, which had weakened public confidence and created uncertainty about the country’s future.
She stressed that “recovery only provides the foundation” and that Sri Lanka can move forward sustainably only by using that foundation to bring about meaningful transformation.
The Prime Minister observed that the theme of the OPA’s 39th Annual Conference, “Envisioning Sri Lanka: Beyond Recovery,” aptly encapsulated these national aspirations. She emphasised that Sri Lanka’s objective should not merely be to return to the conditions that existed before the crisis, but to forge a stronger national foundation characterised by robust institutions, a resilient economy, high-quality public services and an enabling environment in which every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
She further underscored that Sri Lanka’s future development cannot be secured through economic growth and physical development alone. She emphasised that the effective mobilisation of the country’s knowledge, skills and professional expertise, is equally essential to achieving sustainable and inclusive national progress
The Technical Sessions held on 12 August 2026 brought together 19 distinguished experts and professionals representing academia, industry, banking and finance, public health, technology, management and business leadership. Their diverse expertise provided a multidisciplinary platform to examine the critical challenges, emerging opportunities and strategic choices that will shape Sri Lanka’s next phase of development, with particular emphasis on economic transformation, institutional strengthening, digitalisation, private-sector growth, human capital and sustainable development.
The deliberations were structured around four principal sub-themes: “Resilient Recovery and Sustainable Economic Development”; “Future Readiness: Innovation & Transformation”; “Policy for Impact: Advancing Equity, Sustainable Living, and National Well-Being”; and “Leadership, Governance and National Responsibility.”
Across these thematic areas, the sessions explored the structural reforms, institutional requirements and policy choices necessary to move Sri Lanka beyond economic stabilisation towards a more productive, competitive, resilient and inclusive economy. The discussions brought together diverse professional perspectives, enabling participants to examine national priorities through economic, technological, industrial, financial, social and governance lenses.
Particular emphasis was placed on the need to move beyond the diagnosis of problems towards pragmatic, evidence-based and implementable solutions. The deliberations recognised that sustainable national progress requires not only sound policies, but also effective institutions, professional competence, innovation, responsible leadership and the capacity to translate policy into tangible outcomes.
The sessions further underscored the importance of collaboration across sectors, recognising that Sri Lanka’s complex development challenges cannot be addressed in isolation. Stronger engagement among Government, private sector, professional associations, academia and civil society was identified as essential to fostering a coherent national response and ensuring that professional knowledge and expertise are effectively translated into policy and action.
Collectively, the Technical Sessions provided a substantive platform for knowledge exchange, critical reflection and forward-looking dialogue, reinforcing the OPA’s commitment to bringing the country’s professional expertise to bear on the task of building a resilient, innovative, equitable and prosperous Sri Lanka.
The OPA expressed its sincere appreciation to Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, the Chief Guest; Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and Guest of Honour; and Murtaza Jafferjee, Chairman of the Advocata Institute, Sri Lanka and Keynote Speaker, for their distinguished contributions to the Conference.
Much of what the 39th Annual Conference achieved would not have been possible without the leadership, commitment and generous contributions of Jayantha Gallehewa, President of the OPA; Tisara De Silva, President-Elect and Chairman of the 39th Annual Conference; Eng. Ravi Rupasinghe, General Secretary; Dharshana Wijemanne, Treasurer; Bhanu Wijayaratne, Convener & the Chairman of the Session Planning Committee of the 39th Annual Conference Committee, Past Presidents and Office Bearers; Presidents and representatives of Member Associations; members of the Executive Councils and General Forum; and the distinguished Session Chairmen, Resource Persons and professionals who shared their time, expertise and insights in pursuit of the Conference’s shared vision. The OPA remains immensely grateful to all those whose collective contributions enriched the 39th Annual Conference and strengthened its role as a meaningful platform for professional exchange, informed dialogue and national reflection.
For Sri Lankans living 14,000 kilometres from home, the sound of home has never felt closer — and that’s thanks to one man and his band.
Since stepping into the spotlight, Gamini Hemalal and the Ceymphony Band have turned into the heartbeat of the Sri Lankan community in Toronto.
Their mission is simple: bring the music, bring the memories, bring the people together. And it’s working.
What turned out to be the talk-of-the-town was their intimate musical evening with Sri Lanka’s legendary crooner Sohan Weerasinghe.
Sohan Weerasinghe: Had
everyone on their feet at the
Angus Glen Golf Club, in
Toronto, Canada
It was a ‘full house’ long before the big date. Tickets vanished within days — demand was that overwhelming.
According to those who were there, it was a truly amazing evening. The hall was packed, the energy electric. Sohan didn’t just sing — he owned the stage.
With his velvet vocals, his charm, and that signature style, he had everyone on their feet. The ladies, especially, couldn’t get enough. No wonder they call him “The Ladies’ Man!”
One attendee summed it up perfectly:
“We had so much fun. It is truly a blessing to have our kids around us, enjoying these beautiful moments together. Thank you, Gamini Hemalal, for such a wonderful evening, with an amazing crowd and an incredible atmosphere. Your hard work and dedication truly made it a special night.
“We also need to say a big thank you to the Ceymphony Band for delivering such an outstanding performance. You all were absolutely amazing! Our entire family had a fantastic time, and we truly enjoyed every moment.
Ceymphony Band: Extremely popular in the scene in Toronto
“Wishing you all continued success. Keep up the amazing work, we can’t wait for the next.”
And the next is already on the cards: ‘Halloween Pissu Baila Party 2026,’ on Friday, 30th October, at the famous Angus Glen Golf Club.
Gamini promises a crazy night of baila, music, dancing and Halloween vibes with the Ceymphony Band. Action runs from 8:00 PM to 12:00 midnight, with plenty of prizes to be won.
Gamini Hemalal: Amazing work for the Sri Lankan community,
in Toronto, Canada
Gamini is also putting together a special event, connected with the 2027 Avurudu celebrations — ‘Avurudu Musical Show 2027,’ a uniquely styled musical Avurudu celebration … Ceymphony Band style.
It’s scheduled to be held on Saturday, 10th April, 2027, also at the Angus Glen Golf Club.
Through music, Gamini Hemalal and Ceymphony are doing what diaspora bands do best — they’re shrinking the distance between two worlds.
One baila beat at a time, one full house at a time, they’re making sure that even in Canada, Sri Lankans feel like home.
Yes, there is plenty of action, indeed, for the Sri Lankan community in Toronto, Canada.
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