In one of Sri Lanka’s most anticipated literary events, the 32nd Gratiaen Prize was awarded to Savin Edirisinghe, distinguish Mahindian, for his book Kata Katha: Gossip, Rumours, and Idle Talk on May 31. Presented annually by The Gratiaen Trust, the prize recognises outstanding creative writing in English by Sri Lankan authors residing in the country.

Edirisinghe’s collection of short stories was selected from a shortlist that included Wombful of Weeds by Ranudi Gunawardena, The Warm South by Vihanga Perera, Nowhere No Return by Ajith Perakum Jayasinghe, and He Was God’s Child Too by Upali Mahaliyana.

Judges Gregory Pardlo, Dr. Crystal Baines, and Savithri Rodrigo praised Edirisinghe's work for its wit, intelligence, and imagination, describing it as an exploration of the everyday conflicts and communal nature of gossip in Sri Lankan society. Pardlo called the stories “witty, bold, and experimental,” adding that they reflect the contradictions of the current historical moment.

In his acceptance speech, Edirisinghe paid emotional tribute to his late father, Sunil Edirisinghe – “not the singer,” he clarified – who had supported his literary journey. Despite his parents’ lack of English proficiency, they had encouraged him to pursue the language and its creative possibilities.

The Gratiaen Prize continues to shine a light on the richness and innovation of Sri Lankan English literature.

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