Thalan: A Work of Art

The creative Thalan, his hands kept busy with his pen and paintbrush throughout the many years—from Lakehouse to retirement

It is clear that he was a different man, one that stood apart from most. This is also perhaps why he refused many awards presented to him, which he said were unnecessary garlands to a man honest to his profession

As today marks the 1 year death anniversary of a man who lived and loved newspapers, time may be most fit to commemorate his life and prowess.
Thalangama Jayasinghe, veteran journalist, cartoonist and artist needs no introduction.
Born in 1936 to a family of six, his remarkable talents earned him a place at Heywood College (known today as the University of Visual and Performing Arts) by the age of 15. The paintbrush and pen he took in his hands kept him busy throughout the years—from Lakehouse to retirement, until the last few days of his life. While he penned the most witty poems, he drew cartoons full of political satire, earning him not only recognition as a veteran artist but also the love and admiration of an audience both intelligent and demanding. This was not less of politicians and even presidents of the nation, who called him often on the phone to laugh and share their thoughts on everyday politics. 
The academic integrity with which his work progressed needs to be mentioned. Even at the age of 88, he watched news items with the eye of a hawk, worked it out in his mind to mock and not ridicule, and every morning by 10 there would be two camera-ready cartoons and a poem on his table, each better than the other. Perhaps the satire came naturally to him, as he took all in stride, in life and in work. His lesser-known talent was his skill in writing, which led to many publications and even a film production loved by many.
He was also a thinker and a philosopher. Being apolitical was also a part of his identity, though it may appear to be a requirement for a political cartoonist like him. Adamant in his beliefs on religion and the afterlife, he was someone who believed that one should live and let live, despite consequences after death. He carried this to his deathbed and beyond, as his request was a cremation to be held within 24 hours of his death, without any funeral rites.
It is clear that he was a different man, one that stood apart from most. This is also perhaps why he refused many awards presented to him, which he said were unnecessary garlands to a man honest to his profession.
His passing was sudden to us, but mostly to him, as he was in the process of finishing his autobiography and getting ready for an art exhibition in early 2024. He was able to produce a self-portrait for this, a talent rare and difficult even for an artist of his flair. Fortunately, the autobiography will soon get to your hands and hopefully, the art exhibition will also be held within the coming months with the support of his family.  
Regardless of whether it happens, he will remain in the Sri Lankan’s heart, a legacy.