October 01, Colombo (LNW): A group of Swedish schoolchildren has been given an introduction to Sri Lankan literature and cultural traditions through an educational programme centred on the Swedish edition of Martin Wickramasinghe’s much-loved children’s novel Madol Doova.
The programme was organised by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Stockholm as part of its efforts to introduce Swedish audiences to the country’s literary heritage and encourage greater cultural exchange between the two nations.
The young participants were taken through the world of Madol Doova, exploring its characters, storyline and the customs and social traditions woven into the narrative. The session also offered the children an opportunity to learn more about Sri Lanka beyond the pages of the book.
Swedish translator Priyanwada M. Banduwardana, who produced the Swedish version of the novel, read an extract to the students before engaging them in a discussion about the story and the cultural references found within it.
The literary session was followed by a creative activity, with the children producing drawings based on characters, scenes and ideas that had captured their imagination while listening to the story.
The event concluded with an introduction to Sri Lankan hospitality, as the children were served traditional refreshments and Ceylon Tea.
The Sri Lankan Embassy said initiatives of this nature form part of its wider cultural diplomacy programme in Sweden, using literature, art and shared experiences to build greater awareness of Sri Lanka and foster closer people-to-people connections between the two countries.
