The State Literary Awards Ceremony, an occasion to give due accolade to the literati who enrich the field of literature in Sri Lanka with their creations, was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, on (08).Ariya Rajakaruna, NeervaiPonnaiyan and Jean Arasanayagam were presented with “Sahityaratna” life time award for their invaluable service towards the advancement of the literature field of Sri Lanka in Sinhala, Tamil and English languages, by the President.
Many authors received awards at this ceremony for their great contribution for the advancement of the literature in the year 2016.
The Director of the Department of Cultural Affairs Anusha Gokula Fernando presented the special literature volume published in parallel to the State Literary Awards and the books which won the state literary awards, to the President.
Minister S.B. Nawinna, Secretary to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs D. Swarnapala and artistes participated on this occasion.
