Sirisumana Godage:

A storehouse of knowledge

by Rupa Banduwardena

Little away from the hustle and bustle of the city, in close proximity to Maradana, Colombo, is an intellectual environment with the illustrious seat of learning in the vicinity is Godage Book Publishers. No book-thirsty person could miss it. Local readers as well as foreigners patronise it fully.

Not only their wish to find reading matter is granted, but they are assured that their money is made good use of. Today Godage has become a household name in our country and is also one of the well-known publication centres in Asia.

It provides reading material on a wide variety of subjects to suit one's choice and remains as one of the best bookshops and publication centres in the country, a testimony to the hard work and the greatness of the owner - Sirisumana Godage.

Books are a key factor for academic development. Books of value are ideal for a country aspiring to develop fast in education and reach the greatest heights in every sphere. Good books are in demand everywhere. Godage's service in this sphere catering to all needs, over the years has added to its popularity.

Quality

The massive outflow of books contributes in no small measure to improving quality and makes a marked difference in the system of education. The literary landscape of a country is largely highlighted by poetry and short story collections.

He devotes his time and energy in organising his book work and has earned a name as a publisher. He is a strong advocate of time and discipline getting his loyal staff to work with dedication. The secret behind his success is that he knows how best to achieve his targets.

Borrowing ideas of veteran writers, poets and authors he keeps the book world alive. In short the educated and the talented are those who derive the most benefits.

He has given a helping hand to some of the finest writers in the island. His willingness to help the writers has gone a long way towards the country's progress and he had the state award every year for the largest number of books published.

He has always been attracted by the local cultural traditions and Buddhist heritage.

Being a true Buddhist sacred work is given preference. He is never profit minded or commercial minded. My recent book Sacred venue of Buddhist worship is well done. The bookshop speaks volumes for the services rendered by him.

Education

Hailing from a Sinhala Buddhist family in Matara he had his primary education at Gunaratana Madya Maha Vidyalaya. Later it was his fate that brought him to Colombo, where the foundation was laid for his present position. With his knowledge of type-setting and book binding he started a joint venture at Maligakanda with another well-known publisher.

He had been in close association with the erudite bhikkhu Venerable Ananda Maitriya Nayake Thera who was instrumental in changing his future destiny. Subsequently having worked in the Vidyodaya Pirivena, this enterprising young man set up his own establishment, Godage Publishers.