A Landmark Moment for Sri Lankan Writing in Romania

By Tina Edward  Gunawardhana 

Sri Lankan literature marked an important milestone on the European cultural map with the Romanian translation of The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida, the Booker Prize–winning novel by Shehan Karunatilaka. The occasion was celebrated at Sri Lankan Voices in Translation, a literary and cultural event held on 12 December 2025 at the National Museum of Romanian Literature in Bucharest, with the participation of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Romania.

This event represents a significant first step in introducing contemporary Sri Lankan writing to Romanian readers and is expected to be the beginning of many future translations that will carry Sri Lankan stories to new linguistic and cultural audiences. For a nation whose literature has increasingly gained international recognition, the translation of Karunatilaka’s acclaimed novel into Romanian signals both growing global interest and the widening reach of Sri Lanka’s literary voice.

The programme was introduced by Ms Andreea Lacatus of film co/lab and brought together literature, performance, and dialogue, offering audiences a rich and immersive encounter with Sri Lankan storytelling. Through readings, discussion, and performance, the event presented Sri Lankan literature not only as text, but as a living, breathing cultural expression.

The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Romania, Madurika Joseph Weninger, attended as Chief Guest and highlighted Sri Lanka’s long and diverse literary heritage in her address. She noted that although Sri Lanka is a small island nation, its writers have consistently made an impact far beyond its shores. Referring to internationally recognised authors such as Michael Ondaatje, Romesh Gunesekera, Ameena Hussein, Ashok Ferrey, and Anuk Arudpragasam, the Ambassador placed Karunatilaka’s work within a broader tradition of Sri Lankan writing that speaks powerfully to universal themes while remaining deeply rooted in local history and experience.

Reflecting on The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida, she described Karunatilaka’s distinctive literary voice as one shaped by bold imagination, dark humour, and an unflinching engagement with Sri Lanka’s complex past. The Romanian translation, she said, was a meaningful step in strengthening cultural exchange and opening a new chapter for Sri Lankan literature in Eastern Europe.

The evening featured a performative reading from the novel by Romanian actors, bringing the text to life for the audience and demonstrating how translation can transcend language to convey emotion, character, and historical depth. This was followed by an open discussion with members of the Sri Lankan community in Romania and representatives of the project team, creating space for shared reflections, questions, and cross-cultural dialogue.

Appreciation was extended to Mr Ioan Cristescu, General Manager, Ms Monica Morariu, the National Museum of Romanian Literature, and film co/lab for their vision and dedication in organising the event, and for their continued commitment to fostering intercultural understanding through the arts.

The programme underscored literature’s enduring power as a bridge between societies and highlighted the growing presence of Sri Lankan voices in Romania. Initiatives such as Sri Lankan Voices in Translation not only introduce new readers to Sri Lankan writing, but also pave the way for future translations and collaborations.

Concluding the evening, Ambassador Weninger appealed to the Sri Lankan community and Romanian friends to support those affected by Cyclone Ditwah, emphasising solidarity and hope. A moving video musical presentation followed, featuring If Only I Could Weep for You (Sri Lanka)—a poignant tribute to the resilience, courage, and enduring spirit of the Sri Lankan people.