Gratiaen Prize 2025 announces shortlist for 32nd edition

THE Gratiaen Trust this week announced the shortlist for the 32nd Gratiaen Prize at the British Council, Colombo continuing its long-standing tradition of honouring excellence in English creative writing in Sri Lanka.

- BY AMIRA CADER

From an impressive longlist of nine titles, five standout works have now advanced to the finale.

The longlist for the 32nd Gratiaen Prize were:

He Was God's Child Too by Upali Mahaliyana

An exploration of faith, identity and the human experience through the eyes of a young boy grappling with societal and spiritual challenges.

Her Truth by Binendri Perera

A powerful narrative about a woman's journey to reclaim her voice and truth in a world that seeks to silence her, addressing themes of empowerment and resilience.

Kata Katha: Gossip, Rumours, and Idle Talk by Savin Edirisinghe

A social commentary that delves into the impact of gossip, rumours and the ways in which idle talk shape perceptions and relationships in a community.

Nowhere No Return by Ajith Perakum Jayasinghe

A gripping story that examines the personal and social consequences of choices made in times of adversity, exploring themes of escape and the search for meaning.

The Warm South by Vihanga Perera

A reflection on Sri Lanka's natural beauty and the complex interplay of human emotions, capturing the essence of personal and cultural identity within the island's vibrant backdrop.

The Way It Is by Shirani Rajapakse

A contemplative work that touches on personal memories, relationships and the passage of time, examining the unchanging nature of life and its inevitable changes.

The Whispering Ghouls of Paradise by Vasantha Senanayake