Bayan by Pramudith D. Rupasinghe wins the ‘Golden Aster Book Award 2020’

Pramudith D. Rupasinghe is an internationally acclaimed Sri Lankan author who has recently earned the prestigious Golden Aster Book, World Literary Award 2020 for his 3rd novel- Bayan. Awarded annually by the Aster Academy International, Rome, this literary award stands out in its nature, as it recognises not only works written in English, but any Latin based language (English, Italian, Spanish, French or Portuguese). Reflecting the passionate and arduous work that had gone into the making of Bayan, it is also the only English book that has been shortlisted for this top Italian literary award. Other works of well-known international authors such as Mario Filocca, Colette Mourey and Claudia Bermudez competed alongside Bayan. Therefore, this achievement by Pramudith D. Rupasinghe is indeed a milestone in both Sri Lankan and International literary arenas.

Set in Ukraine, Bayan is a work of cross cultural fiction that flows peacefully through the ravages of time. The author breathes life into a 73 year old Ivan Nikolayevich who finds soulful company in a traditional string instrument – bayan. The story of Ivan who had to transition from the Soviet Union and forced to grow old in a modern democratic society is meaningfully written, with a life lesson at each turning page. Bayan has already been translated into several languages including Sinhalese, Polish, German, Russian and Burmese. The novel can soon be expected in Russian, Ukrainian and Hindi, widening its audience. This novel shines not only in its effortlessly skillful language use but also for its philosophical value.

The author brings his many experiences as a humanitarian diplomat into the intricate detailing of his works such as Bayan, Footprints in Obscurity and Behind the Eclipse-The Unheard from the West African Ebola. His writing addresses life and its many elements that makes it calamitous, peaceful and meaningful, while wittily diving deep into the silenced nooks and corners of societies. Termites, Rain of Fire and The Girl Who Snatched the Moon will soon be released to his readers at home and worldwide.

He strongly believes that the Sri Lankan education system needs to broaden the horizons of youngsters beyond the traditional framework of career expectations to bring out the best versions of themselves. The author also states the significance of more neutral platforms and appraisal systems where due recognition is given to writers in Sri Lanka. We wish the award winning author the very best for his upcoming endeavours and to lead and inspire a generation of writers who are yet to take on the international literary arena!

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