Sudarshi, Colombo's cultural ashram

The Sinhala Cultural Institute which commemorates its 55th anniversary this year was in the vanguard in fostering and promoting indigenous arts such as literature, creative talents, dancing, music, folk literature, handicrafts and cinema as well. It was the platform for the rural youth to have their inborn or acquired skills harnessed to the task of preserving the national ethos.

Those who pioneered the idea of a Sinhala Cultural Institute were well-known scholars, historians, artistes, politicians, engineers, musicians, medical experts and social workers. A few among them were Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike, Lakshman Jayakody, Dr. A. N. S. Kulasinghe, Dr. P. R. Anthonis and J. D. A. Perera.

The Sinhala Cultural Institute set up at 'Sudarshi', Bauddhaloka Mawatha in Colombo 7 gave birth to many an artiste including dramatist Dayananda Gunawardene, a genius of the stage drama whose inspiration was a source of strength to the budding artistes. 'Sudarshi' was the cultural ashram which helped politicians, scientists, lawyers, doctors and even sportsmen sharpen their artistic skills.

The Sinhala Cultural Institute incorporated by an Act of Parliament in 1980 acts purely in altruistic interest to safeguard the Sinhala cultural heritage.

Dancing - upcountry and low country, Sabaragamu, Kathak, Manipuri and Bharata, languages, literature, mars media, modern and traditional forms of handicraft, music and folk songs, cinematography, painting and Nadagam are important subjects taught at the Centre where facilities are also available for filming and seminars as well.