True son of the soil:

D.A. Rajapaksa remembered on 45th death anniversary

by Prof. Gamini Adikari

The late D.A. Rajapaksa's 45th death commemoration falls on November 7.

He became the cynosure of all eyes as the patriotic father of four illustrious sons. Such fathers, indeed, become immortal. Born and nurtured as a true son of the soil in Ruhuna, D.A. Rajapaksa was elected to the National Legislature, succeeding his brother D.M. Rajapaksa. His forte was agriculture, the sole livelihood of his peers.

He joined hands with S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike who created a milestone in the indigenous economic system: Bandaranaike aptly remarked, “D.A., I believe you are my shadow”.

His vision was based on his principle of subordinating personal ease for the common good and welfare. Leadership, patriotism and respect for the inarticulate aspirations of the people were salient features of his persona.

Rajapaksa is well assured of a place in Sri Lanka's hall of fame as a simple father who practised the art of living within his resources.

That, he never failed in his duty to his motherland is proof of his dedication to accomplish the cause of his people.

Rather than forming his views on what he desired, he allowed his sons full freedom within the bounds of reason. Such was the magnanimity of a celebrity father towards his beloved children. He accustomed them to a life blended with the niceties of an independent and liberal ideology. They became the guardians of the motherland with its language and religion.

Siri Lakdivhi Nobosattu Norajawannai - “No one could be the king of this land unless he is a Buddha-aspirant.” This was recorded in epigraphy one hundred years ago.

It is due to the Bodhisattva-like noble qualities of his children that they were enthroned in power. They will never be apathetic to their fellow countrymen, but always remain part and parcel of their humble lives.

D.A. Rajapaksa's stentorian voice still reverberates in Parliament. His grandchildren Shashendra, Namal, Yoshitha and Rohitha represent the family line of succession. He held the Dhamma in high esteem and hence he was protected by the Dhamma.

It is 43 years since he departed from our midst and yet his words resonate. Those who live in the hearts of the people will never die.

Such was the fate of D.A. Rajapaksa. You are immortal!

In the words of Thomas Grey, “Large was his bounty and his soul sincere”.

The writer is a professor in the Post Graduate Institute of Archaeology, Kelaniya University.

Translated by K.D.M. Kittanpahuwa