The Malalasekera Foundation launched “Professor Gunapala Malalasekera: A Photographic Portrait” recently, commemorating the 125th birth anniversary of the legendary scholar and cultural advocate, Prof. Gunapala Piyasena Malalasekera. Authored by the Ven. Wetara Mahinda Thera after eight years of meticulous research, the book is a heartfelt tribute to Prof. Malalasekera’s unparalleled contributions to education, Buddhism, and the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Prof. Malalasekera, often referred to as “GPM,” was a visionary who dedicated his life to educational reform and national pride amidst the challenges of colonial rule. Inspired by influential figures within the Buddhist educational movement, he played a significant role in shaping Sri Lanka’s national education system and instilling cultural values that resonated across generations. At the launch event at the National Archives auditorium in Colombo and attended by family, foundation members, scholars, and civil activists, the book’s author, Ven. Wetara Mahinda Thera, shared his motivation for undertaking this project:
“The primary objective of launching this book stemmed from my readings of previous books published about Prof. Gunapala Malalasekera. In studying these, I realised that some of his most impactful contributions to Buddhism and to our country had not been fully captured. I felt a strong need to create a comprehensive portrayal of Professor Malalasekera’s life, including a rich collection of portraits to bring to life the real moments and experiences that defined him.
With this goal in mind, I embarked on an extensive research journey, travelling across the country to ensure this book accurately represents Professor Malalasekera’s legacy and makes it accessible to readers. I hope this book not only honours his remarkable life but also brings readers closer to his invaluable contributions.”
Ashan Malalasekera, Prof. Malalasekera’s grandson and founder of the Malalasekera Foundation, expressed his appreciation for Ven. Mahinda Thera’s dedication to the project:
“On behalf of the Malalasekera Foundation and our family, I am honoured to share this message in recognition of Ven. Wetara Mahinda’s thoughtfully compiled work. A devoted scholar of my grandfather’s life, Ven. Mahinda has shed light on GPM’s enduring contributions to academia, Buddhist scholarship, and nation-building. This book reflects his significant influence in areas beyond his academic pursuits, including his humanitarian work and profound contributions to the arts. We extend our deepest gratitude to Ven. Mahinda Thera for his relentless dedication to preserving GPM’s legacy.”
“Prof. Gunapala Malalasekera: A Photographic Portrait” is a tribute not only to a scholar but to a compassionate leader who left an indelible mark on Sri Lankan society and Buddhist thought worldwide. This publication by the Malalasekera Foundation seeks to inspire future generations by sharing the values and vision that defined Prof. Malalasekera’s life.
