Munidasa Kumaratunga:

The literary giant

by Rupa Banduwardena

Munidasa Kumaratunga was a true son of the Lankan soil. He was a colossus in the world of learning. Scholar, linguist, novelist, literary critic, author, composer and perhaps the best Sinhala poet he is revered to this day as one who heralded the revival of Sinhala. His accomplishments won him great honour, especially the refined language he gifted to the nation. It was his desire for Lankans to live with dignity that he instilled in them a sense of national fervour by creating a national consciousness and a national identity. He combined rare qualities in his colourful career spanning over four decades.

Kumaratunga was born at Dickwella, on July 25, 1897 and died in March 1944.

During this short space of time, his contribution to language and literature was remarkable. He preserved the traditions of the language. At a time when the decline of social and cultural values were reflected in society due to Western influence, his commitment to the Hela spirit opened a new chapter in the annals of Sinhala literature. He had endeavoured to create an indigenous theme promoting Sinhalakama which resulted in the emergence of "Hela Havula". It made a tremendous impact on our cultural heritage.

Language

For the development of a nation, its language should be given pride of place. This is evident from the unique contribution made by him.

He is supposed to have written 102 books. He has contributed articles to various journals.

He was the editor of several newspapers. Lakmini Pahana is an outstanding example Subasa and Pahana are still others. Through Subasa he paved the way for children to develop their language skills. Pahana too was of immense value.

The beginning of research and literary criticism could be attributed to his outstanding skills. He produced commentaries on ancient literary works such as Selalihini Sandeshaya, Buduguna Alankaraya Subhashithaya, Nikaya Sangrahaya Muwadeudavatha, Sasadavatha and Amavatura.

Among his other books, Piyasamara the first ever biography in Sinhala appears to be a reflection of his fond feelings as a son.

Samaruwa Kumara Padya Sangrahaya came to the fore with the demisc of his brother and his friends.

Sohoyuru Viyova and Yahalu Viyova are two such examples. His competence to determine and identify correct Sinhala is remarkable. Kriya Vivaranaya, Sidath Sangara Vivaranaya and Viakarana Vivaranaya are some of his writings on grammer.

Literary creations

His competence in coining Hela words and the vast range of literary creations for children is praiseworthy.

The habit of reading from early years was emphasised by him. A child develops the basis for future development of reading habit from his love for the stories or the reading material. In Kumaratunga's books, he had laid the foundation for this.

Heenseraya, Magul Kema and Hathpana are some of his finest works enjoyed by children.

Theme

His theme, language and the descriptive style were peculiar to him. The stories are cheerful and interesting. The characters are wonderful with names used to suit numerous situations. Kiyawana Nuwana and Shiksha Margaya (childrens series) are conducive to moral values.

The beauty of his books for the children's world lay in its richness and literary value.

He had rendered a tremendous service in his capacity as teacher, and principal of a Teachers' Training College and an Inspector of schools while contributing to the development of Sinhala language and literature.

His passionate devotion to Helaya was kept up by those such as the late Amarasiri Gunawardena, Gamini Thilakawardena, C. Coporahewa D.V. Richard Silva, K.W. Pragnapala. Nandanapala Kumaranatunga too should be added to this list.

The grateful Lankans are keeping him alive by persecuting his values and principles and never failing to honour him for his selfless service.