Cultural Heritage

Gadya Padya, Essay & Art Competitions

Inculcating Buddhist ethics and values through the study of Ancient Sinhala Classical Literature.

Our Journey

A Legacy of Literature

Inaugurated in 1998, the Gadya and Padya competition began with a singular vision: to encourage the younger generation to explore the rich tapestry of Sinhala Classical Literature. What started as a district-level contest has now blossomed into a prestigious island-wide event.

1998

Inception

Inaugurated within the Colombo District.

2000

Island-wide Expansion

Decentralized to district capitals, with the Grand Prize Giving held in Colombo.

2006

Major Upgrade

Added Essay Writing, Poetry Composition, and a special Teacher's Category.

"Preserving the Dhamma through the beauty of language."

Competition Categories

Open to School Children, Dhamma School Students, and Teachers.

Gadya & Padya Recitation

Reciting extracts from classical texts with proper intonation and pronunciation.

Divisions:
• Junior: 12 - 15 Years
• Senior: 15 - 20 Years

Essay Writing

Expressing Buddhist ethics and values through creative and structured writing.

Divisions:
• Junior: Below 15 Years
• Senior: 15 - 20 Years
• Teachers: Dhamma School Teachers

Poetry Composition

Composing original verses based on Buddhist themes and classical styles.

Eligibility:
• School & Dhamma School Children
• Age: 12 - 20 Years

Sinhala Prose (Gadya)

Poojaawaliya
Buthsarana
Amavatura
Saddharmaratnawaliya
Daladasiritha
Kuveni Asna
Sakaskata
Jathakapotha

Sinhala Poetry (Padya)

Subhasithaya
Budugunalankaraya
Guttilakavya
Ganga Rohana Warnanawa
Yashodarawatha
Lowedasangarawa

How to Enter

Download the relevant application forms below. Please ensure all details are filled correctly and submitted before the deadline.

Application PDF - 142 KB

Contact Coordinator For Inquiries