Munidasa Kumaratunga Memorial: Honoring Sri Lanka’s Linguistic Legend

A Tribute to the Father of Modern Sinhala

Located at the 21km post on Galle Road (A2), this humble yet significant monument marks the resting place of:

• Munidasa Kumaratunga (1887-1944) – Scholar who revolutionized Sinhala language
• Author of 118 works – Including children’s classics like *Hath Pana*
• Champion of "Hela Havula" – A movement to purify Sinhala

Why This Site Matters

Cultural Significance

• Birthplace of modern Sinhala literature – His grammar books are still used
• Annual commemorations (March 2 – Death anniversary)
• Inspired Sri Lanka’s language policy post-independence

Monument Features

• Simple granite tomb with inscriptions of his works
• Surrounding garden with native plants he wrote about
• Nearby library housing his first editions

Visitor Experience

1. Paying Respects

• Light oil lamps (available at nearby stalls)
• Read engraved quotes from *Kumaratunga’s* works

2. Nearby Exploration

• Moratuwa (5km north): Visit his former home (now a museum)
• Panadura (10km south): Where he taught at St. John’s College

3. For Literature Lovers

• Browse "Hath Pana" at roadside bookshops
• Spot Galle Road milestones he referenced in diaries

Visitor Tips

Best Time: Early morning (7-9 AM) when floral offerings are fresh

Transport: Any Colombo-Galle bus (ask for "Kumaratunga samadhi")

Read First: *Magul Kaema* (his most famous poetry collection)

Local Insights

Hidden Gem: The pen monument shaped like his favorite writing tool

Special Event: "Hela Havula Day" (October 21) with poetry recitals

Book a Literary Tour of Sri Lanka!

Explore more language landmarks: srilankatourhelp.org

Did You Know? Kumaratunga created 3,000+ new Sinhala words to replace English loanwords!