The 2025 Palasa Literary Competition Celebrates Creative Expression
The 2025 Palasa Literary Competition, organised by the Alumni Organisation of the University of Colombo, was held on October 25, 2025, at the New Art Gallery in Colombo. This event took place alongside the 33rd Annual Conference and Friendly Gathering of the Alumni Organisation, making it a significant milestone in the cultural calendar of the institution.
Origins and Evolution of the Competition
Launched in 2023, the Palasa Literary Competition was designed as a platform to nurture and recognize creative expression among students. Its primary goal is to build a publishing ecosystem that reflects contemporary socio-cultural dynamics. In 2024, the competition expanded its reach by including school-level participants. By 2025, it had further broadened its scope to include graduates from all universities across Sri Lanka.
Initially, the competition featured four categories: poetry, short stories, song lyrics, and short drama scripts. However, in 2025, the format underwent a strategic transformation, integrating poetic expression into short story and short drama formats. At the school level, Advanced Level (A/L) students were eligible to participate, while the inter-university segment welcomed undergraduate submissions from both state and private institutions. Additionally, alumni—both undergraduate and postgraduate—from the University of Colombo and seven other national universities were invited to contribute.
Promoting Linguistic Inclusivity
One of the most notable developments in the 2025 edition was the introduction of a Tamil-language poetry category. This initiative was a deliberate effort to promote linguistic inclusivity and foster cultural cohesion within the literary community.
A Distinguished Panel of Judges
The adjudication process for the competition was entrusted to a panel of distinguished scholars and practitioners in literature, visual arts, and cultural studies. Many of these judges are esteemed alumni of the University of Colombo. A dedicated jury specialising in Sri Lankan art was appointed to evaluate submissions in the academic category, ensuring a high standard of evaluation.
Notable Guests and Patrons
The award ceremony was held under the patronage of Professor Indika Karunathilaka, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Colombo, and former Chief Justice Priyasath Dep. The event attracted several distinguished guests, including Bernard Kariyawasam, President of the Alumni Organisation of the University of Colombo; Dasun Wickramaratne, Chairman of the Global Housing and Real Estate Institute; Shehani Brahmanage, Director of the Prime Residences Institute; Aruna Kothalawala, Chairman of Vijaya Products; and Dr. Anura de Silva, Chairman of the Gampaha Arogya Sala Group.
Contributions from the Arts Community
The ceremony also welcomed prominent figures from the Sri Lankan arts community, including Nissanka Diddeniya, Buddhadasa Galappatti, Keerthi Welisarage, and Thimbiriyagama Bandara. Their presence underscored the significance of the event and highlighted the growing interest in literary and artistic expression across the country.
Conclusion
The 2025 Palasa Literary Competition not only celebrated creativity but also emphasized the importance of inclusivity, cultural diversity, and academic excellence. With its expanding reach and evolving structure, the competition continues to play a vital role in nurturing talent and promoting literary engagement in Sri Lanka.