Life style

The poem Neruda never wrote

Published

5 years ago

2021/10/24

In an exclusive interview with the Sunday Island, film maker Asoka Handagama shares the story behind his latest film- Alborada (The Dawning of the Day) inspired by the celebrated poet Pablo Neruda’s stay here as the Chilean Consul. The film is to be internationally premiered at the 34th edition of the Tokyo International Film Festival opening on October 30.

by Randima Attygalle

It is the year 1929. Young Chilean poet and diplomat Pablo Neruda whose fame preceded him arrives in the British-occupied Ceylon as the Chilean Consul. By then Neruda, had already become an international literary celebrity. His work, Twenty Love Poems and Song of Despair was among the bestselling books of poetry in the 20th century. He was called ‘the poet of the people, the oppressed and the forgotten.’

The activist-Consul arrives in Ceylon, barely 25 and empty-handed except for his memory of the disengaged relationship with his former Burmese lover, Josie Bliss. She was obsessively devoted to Neruda and possessed by an overwhelming jealousy. Neruda who called Josie ‘a love terrorist’ and ‘a species of Burmese Panther’ would document in his memoir: (completed shortly before his death in 1973) ‘Sometimes a light would wake me, a ghost moving on the other side of the mosquito net. It was Josie, flimsily dressed in white, brandishing her long, sharp knife. It was she, walking round and round my bed, for hours at a time, without quite making up her mind to kill me. When you die, she used to say to me, my fears will end.’

While his ‘Bliss’ was turning into a taunting jealousy, Neruda receives a cable from Santiago informing him of his immediate transfer to Ceylon. Welcoming his emancipation from his lover, Neruda settles in a beach-front cottage in Wellawatte and is taken care of by a man servant.

He attempts to bury his memories in the vast tropical shores and takes refuge in an atmosphere of solitude he creates for himself. In his memoir is a chapter dedicated to his stay in Ceylon titled Luminous Solitude where he writes: ‘each morning I was overpowered by the miracle of newly cleansed nature.’

Neruda was soon found in the artistic inner circles of Colombo. He was acquainted with Lionel Wendt and George Keyt. The young Chilean poet had a bevy of female admirers whom he called ‘dusky and golden girls of Boer, English and Dravidian blood.’ They bedded him ‘sportingly, asking for nothing in return,’ as he documents.

The young diplomat was infatuated with a Tamil woman of a low caste who came every day at dawn to clean his outdoor latrine. He found her to be the most beautiful woman he had seen in Ceylon. To win her attention, Neruda left her gifts of fruit or silk on the path leading to the latrine, but she took no notice of them. One day he gripped her by the wrist and stared into her eyes. ‘Unsmiling, she let herself be led away and soon was naked in my bed. Her waist, so very slim, her full hips, the brimming cups of her breasts made her like one of the thousand-year-old sculptures from the south of India. … She kept her eyes wide open all the while, completely unresponsive. She was right to despise me. The experience was never repeated.’

The act became a subject of international scrutiny in later years, even prompting a reassessment of the Nobel Laureate’s merit. Neruda who was celebrated as ‘the greatest poet in the 20th century in any language’ by Gabriel Garcia Marquez was even labeled a ‘rapist’. Activists challenged his documentation of ‘she let herself be led away’ as a blatant lie. The decision to rename Chile’s busiest Santiago International Airport after Neruda was met with outrage from human rights activists who argued that the honour was inappropriate for a man who admitted to rape in his own memoirs.

“Although there are many accounts of Neruda’s life portrayed in fiction and film, this part of the story is often carefully left out. Though his poems about love outwardly sound romantic, they hide within them the eroticization and objectification of women and particularly, women of colour,” reflects the film-maker Asoka Handagama whose latest film Alborada (The Dawning of the Day) is an elaboration of Neruda’s controversial sexual assault.

The film which is to hold its world premiere in Tokyo (Oct. 30 – Nov. 8) is a fictionalized account of Neruda’s stay in Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) from 1929 to 1931 as the Chilean Consul. The film explores the psychological and the emotional factors behind Neruda’s attraction to a woman bound by her caste: a woman considered to be ‘untouchable’, unknown to her playing a part in a bizarre fantasy that ended in a sexual assault.

A fan of Neruda’s poetry, Handagama found the poet’s mixed element of art and controversy a tempting subject for a film script. The script which was inspired by Neruda’s Memoirs is a fruit of 10 years of research on the poet. Handagama left his position as a Deputy Governor of the Central Bank three years before his formal retirement age to complete what he calls his ‘dream film.’

A rebel himself with his cinematic expression, Handagama intrepidly unearths the famed poet’s often interred infamous chapter in what he calls an ‘ironic act.’ “It is ironic that an Asian film-maker, coming from a so called restrained cultural landscape is throwing light on Neruda’s sexual antics when all the while Western cinema makers and fiction writers chose to leave them out in the exposition of him,” smiles Handagama.

Reference to Neruda’s Burmese lover Josie Bliss in his poetry is plenty although she is widely regarded as a figment of the poet’s imagination, notes the film maker. “The depiction of her as a perceived threat, a desire and barbarity in his poem Widower’s Tango, combined with his confession show Neruda’s complicated relationship with women and race.” However, no poem of Neruda’s alludes to the ‘untouchable woman’ by whom he was smitten, despite being described as the ‘most beautiful Ceylonese woman’ or one resembling a ‘thousand-year-old sculpture’ from South India. Handagama’s tagline for his film, The poem Neruda never wrote validates this exclusion. It is also an allegorical reminder of the poet’s element which many tended to discount.

Alborada reinvents the rustic west coast of the island Neruda saw in the 1930s. This was no easy task says its creator. “We had to recreate Wellawatta of his time and this was not possible within Colombo due to the changing skyline. We set it up in Nonagama and in Ranminithenna Tele-Cinema Village.”

Lending a cinematic interpretation to an isolated incident at home which is unfamiliar to the authentic Sri Lankan film print, Alborada is to be a refreshing new experience for the local audience. The film also hopes to spur a public discourse, says its director. Starring Spanish actor Luis J Romero as Neruda and French actress Anne Solene Hatte as Josie, the dialogues are in English with Sinhala and Tamil subtitles. The film also debuts several artistes. The main cast comprises Rithika Kodithuwakku (Tamil woman), Malcolm Machado (Neruda’s man servant), Dominic Keller (Lionel Wendt), Nimaya Harris (Patsy), Thusitha Laknath, Kaushalya Mendis, Samantha Balasuriya, Kasun Perera and Kanchana Nandani. Edited by Ravindra Guruge, the film is produced by H.D. Premasiri.

The Tokyo International Film Festival (TokyoIFF) which will feature Alborada is among the invited films for its ‘international competition’ which is the highlight of the festival. Multi-award winning French screen and stage actress Isabelle Huppert will chair the competition jury. This year’s theme of TokyoIFF is ‘Crossing Borders’. “There are plenty of international film festivals today. But only 14 of them are regarded as ‘A-Grade film festivals. TokyoIFF is one of them and the only Asian festival to get this recognition so far,” remarks Handagama. This year’s festival will be opened with the world premiere of Clint Eastwood’s latest film Cry Macho.

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Life style

Crafting catwalk elegance behind the scene

Published

5 days ago

2026/05/17

Thilina Walpola

By Zanita Careem

While the spotlight at Colombo Fashion Week shines brightly, dazzling couture and celebrated designers, the true heartbeat of the event often lies behind the curtains. Backstage is where creativity meets pressure, precision and passion, a world powered by hairstylists, makeup artists, dress designers, choroegraphers and production teams work tirelessly against the clock.

At Colombo Fashion Week, the spotlight may belong to designers, but just behind the runway lights, another story unfolds – one of precession, pace and transformative artistry.

At the heart of it all stands Ramani Fernando, the quiet force who has shaped the face of fashion in Sri Lanka for decades. Long before the first model takes her stride, Ramani Fernando and her team are already at work. Backstage is a flurry of motion, hair dryers humming, brushes sweeping, palettes opening and closing in rhythm. Yet amid the chaos there is a remarkable sense of order. That order is Ramani. For years, she has been the official hair and beauty partner of Colombo Fashion Week, curating looks that not only complement but elevate each designer’s vision. Whether it is sleek, pulled back aesthetic for a structured collection or wild textured volume for a more experimental line her work ensures that beauty becomes an extension of fashion.

The crew of CFW is more than a just a team comprising some of the country’s most skilled stylists and make up artistry. Many of them trained in her own academy, the crew operates under intense pressure with seamless co-ordination.

“A single show can demand dozens of looks in a matter of hours. Multiple designers each with a distinct creative direction, rely on the team to interpret and excute their vision and precision. Timing is everything. There are no second takes. Every strand of hour, every stroke of make up must be fearless before the model steps onto the runway. And yet what stands out is not finish , nor the speed, but the consistency said Ramani. Colombo Fashion Week has increasingly positioned itself on the global fashion map, and beauty plays a crucial role in that evolution. Each season, Ramani Fernando’s team introduces looks that are not only trends driven but often trend-setting within the local industry.

In the end, the curtain does not just hide preparation,it protects the chaos,creativity,and colloboration that make the final moment possible.

: Crafting confidence behind the curtain

Life style

Early diagnosis, better chances and stronger hope

Published

5 days ago

2026/05/17

Thilina Walpola

Senior Consultant Cancer Surgeon Dr Anuruddha Thewarapperuma

Senior Consultant Cancer Surgeon Dr Anuruddha Thewarapperuma on…

In a timely and though-provoking session held at Apeksha Hospital, Senior Consultant Cancer Surgeon Dr. Anuruddha Thewarapperuma addressed one of the most pressing health concerns facing modern society, the growing prevalence of cancers and the importance of early detection.

Speaking to the ‘ Sunday Island,’ Dr Anuruddha stressed that awareness and timely medical intervention continue to be the strongest weapon in the fight against cancer. In Sri Lanka many cancer patients still arrive at hospitals during the advanced stages of illness, but the role of awareness, early detection and compassionate medical care has never been more vital to most patients.

Speaking on the growing burden of cancer in Sr Lanka, Dr Anuruddha stressed that one of the biggest challenges we face is delayed diagnosis. Many patients first seek treatment from family doctors, or attempt to ignore symptoms, often believing they are a minor health issue. By the time they meet a specialist, the disease may already be in an advanced stage

Cancer is no longer a disease affecting the old, he explained. Today we see younger patients, as well, especially with breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung and oral cancer

Dr Thewarapperuma, who specialises in complex cancer surgeries, including breast, colorectal, pancreatic and lung cancers, highlighted that breast cancer remains one of the most common cancer among women in Sri Lanka. He urged women to undergo regular screenings and immediately seek medical advice if they notice unusual lumps, skin changes or discharges. Colorectal cancer, another rapidly rising concern, often begins with silent symptoms. He pointed out that warnings signs, such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss and persistent abdominal discomfort, should never be ignored. Lifestyle changes, unhealthy diets, and lack of excercise, are among the contributing factors behind the increasing numbers.

With Sri Lanka witnessing a steady rise in cases of breast cancer, colorectal lung and oral cancers, he noted many lives could be saved through routine screenings and greater public education. He said that we must not only be aware of medical facts but also on changing attitudes towards cancer.

He explained that fear, stigma and misinformation often prevent patients from seeking treatment early.

Cancer, detected early, can often be treated successfully, he emphasised, encouraging the public to pay attention to warning signs and prioritise regular health check-ups.

According to the veteran surgeon, the impact of modern lifestyles specially fast foods, smoking, dietary habits and environment influences are contributory factors. Many patients walk into my room frightened, not knowing what the future holds. Dr Thewarapperuma explained, some men and women worry about their children, some fear of losing thier identity, while others are terrified simply because of the word cancer itself. He stressed the emotional healing is just as important as medical treatment. Dr Thewarapperuma noted that not only the patient even families also experience emotional strain .

He said different cancers affect patients emotionally in different ways, yet fear and uncertainty remains common to all.

Speaking further on breast cancer, he said it remains one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide and in Sri Lanka. Many women initially struggle with shock and insecurity. They are emotinally shattered, He maintained with early diagnosis and medical treatment many cancer patients go on to lead healthy and confident lives.

He always focussed on the fact that early detection and timely treatment are crucial in improving survival rates and ensuring better quality of life for the patient. Breast cancer can often be treated successfully if detected early, he noted. Women should never ignore changes in their breasts, even if there is no pain

He encouraged women to become familiar with their own bodies, through regular self examinations. Common warning signs are a lump, changes in breast shape or size,,nipple discharge, a lump under the arm are a few symptoms women should be aware of.

He noted awareness, education and regular screenings and mammograms continue to play a vital role in reducing risks and improving survival rates.

Dr Thewarapperum also highlighted the growing incidence of colon cancer which is becoming increasingly common in Sri Lanka, yet many people are unaware of its early warning signs. This cancer is common among middle aged and older adults.

Symptoms such as persistent abnominal pain, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, blood in stools and ongoing fatigue should never be ignored

According to the Senior Consultant, many patients delay in seeking medical attention; they panic only after the disease reaches an advanced stage.

Talking about oral cancers, it continues to be one of the most common cancers in Sri Lanka, largely due to lifestyle habits, such as smoking, betel chewing and excessive alcohol consumption.

Colon cancer, is more frequently diagnosed in individuals above the age of 50.

Nevertheless youngest individuals, with unhealthy lifestyle habits, are also increasingly at risk

Also speaking about lung cancers Dr Thewarapperuma said this cancer affects both men and women and remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths.

He warned that even non-smokers are now at risk due to increasing exposure to harmful pollution.

According to him, many cancer patients seek medical attention, only at the advanced stage, because early symptoms are often overlooked by most people.

Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence in the advances made in cancer treatment in Sri lanka. Modern technology, improved surgical techniques,and multi disciplinary care have significantly improved patient outcomes and survival rates

However, delayed diagnosis among patients in Sr Lanka continues to remain one of the biggest challenges in cancer management.

Dr Anuruddha highlighted throughout our discussion the importance of early diagnosis significantly have higher success rates and better quality of life, after treatment.

Apeksha Hospital’s multi disciplinary approval to cancer management combining experienced consultants, advanced surgical procedures, diagnostic facilities and personalised patient care, has contributed positive treatment outcome across several common cancers including breast, colon, oral, lung and other cancers.

Dr Thewarapperuma explained that modern cancer care are not limited to surgery alone.

Timely screening, accurate diagnosis, coordinated specialist care and emotional support, all play a major role in successfull recovery.

“We at Apeksha Hospital continues to focus on patient centred treatments while creating awareness on prevention and early detection through educational programmes and medical discussions.

We remain committed to offer hope, confidence and quality healthcare to patients facing cancer diagnosis.

His message to the public was clear – awareness, early screening, and timely medical attention remains the strongest weapons in the fight against all kinds of cancer. He says cancer, when detected early, is no longer a battle that must be faced without hope and this disease is not the end of life either. Early detection saves lives and emotional strength gives patients the courage to continue their journey, said this well known Senior Consultant Cancer Surgeon. He is attached to several leading hospitals, including the istitute at Maharagama (Apeksha Hospital) and also Hemas and Asiri Surgical hospitals.

Life style

A milestone of excellence

Published

5 days ago

2026/05/17

Thilina Walpola

From Left: Nawaz Rizmi (Assistant Manager – Operations), Sahan Madusanka (Group HR Manager), Sandra Krishanthy (Assistant Manager – Medical Operations), Dr Sarah Fazy (Managing Director & CEO), Dr Nalini Samararathna (Medical Officer), and Chamath Goonesinghe (Head of Marketing).

Dr Sarah Fazy, also known as Dr Cherry, recently marked a major professional milestone by recieving the ISO certification. It is more than a professional achievement – it is a statement of discipline, vision and modern excellence in aesthetic medicine.

360 Skin Clinic & 360 Aesthetics has achieved a significant milestone in its journey of clinical excellence and service innovation after being awarded the prestigious ISO 9001:2015 / SLS ISO 9001:2015 certification, reinforcing its position as one of Sri Lanka’s leading providers of cosmetic, aesthetic and wellness care.

Issued by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI), the certificate of conformity recognises that 360 Wellness Centre (Pvt) Ltd., has successfully implemented a Quality Management System that meets the rigorous international standards of ISO 9001:2015, one of the world’s most respected benchmarks for quality assurance and continual improvement.

Founded by renowned cosmetic and aesthetic physician Dr Sarah Fazy, widely known as Dr Cherry, the 360 brand has built a reputation for combining medical expertise with personalised care, advanced technology and a strong commitment to client wellbeing. Over the years, the clinic has expanded its services while maintaining a steadfast focus on ethical practice, innovation and trusted results.

Commenting on the certification, Dr. Sarah Fazy, Founder of 360 Skin Clinic & 360 Aesthetics, said “This certification is a proud moment for our entire team and a reflection of the standards we strive to uphold every day. Quality care, patient safety and professional excellence have always been at the heart of our vision. Achieving ISO 9001:2015 recognition validates our commitment to delivering world-class services to every client who places their trust in us.”

Dr. Sarah Fazy receiving the ISO 9001:2015 certification

The achievement marks a new chapter for 360 Skin Clinic & 360 Aesthetics, ensuring that every treatment, consultation and customer interaction is guided by internationally recognised processes focused on consistency, safety, efficiency and patient satisfaction.

ISO 9001:2015 is a globally recognised framework developed by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). It provides organisations with a structured model to enhance operational efficiency, maintain consistent service quality and continually improve customer experiences.

Dr. Sarah further stated, “At 360 Skin Clinic & 360 Aesthetics, we believe beauty and wellness should be approached with responsibility, precision and compassion. This milestone motivates us to continue raising the bar in aesthetic medicine and wellness care in Sri Lanka.”

For 360 Skin Clinic & 360 Aesthetics, the certification demonstrates its commitment to delivering dependable, high-quality services, maintaining robust quality control systems, continuously improving internal processes, ensuring transparency, accountability and professionalism, and prioritising patient safety and satisfaction.

The certification scope covers a broad portfolio of services, including medical and cosmetic skincare, haircare solutions, aesthetic consultations, facial treatments, cosmetic procedures, nail care, surgical enhancements and hair transplantation services.

This recognition provides customers with added confidence that they are receiving care aligned with internationally accepted standards, delivered by trained professionals using advanced techniques and modern technology.

Since its inception, 360 Skin Clinic has been driven by a mission to redefine beauty, wellness and self-care in Sri Lanka. What began as a visionary concept has evolved into a trusted brand supported by a multidisciplinary team of specialists dedicated to helping clients look and feel their best.

The clinic is known for conducting detailed consultations and personalised assessments to create bespoke treatment plans tailored to individual skincare and wellness goals. Its medical aesthetic team continues to invest in state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based treatments to remain at the forefront of the industry.

With the attainment of ISO 9001:2015 / SLS ISO 9001:2015 certification, 360 Skin Clinic & 360 Aesthetics strengthens its promise to deliver elevated care, trusted results and a standard of excellence clients can feel confident in.