Discovering the Heart of Galle Fort: A Journey Through Time and Culture with Ceylon Soul
Galle Literary Festival
The Galle Literary Festival, established in 2006, quickly evolved into one of the most celebrated literary festivals in South Asia. It provided a platform for local and international authors, poets, and artists to come together, share their work, and engage with the community. The festival not only highlighted the literary arts but also included a diverse array of cultural programs, workshops, and exhibitions that brought Galle Fort to life.
Galle Literary Festival
The Galle Literary Festival was founded by Anglo-Australian hotelier Geoffrey Dobbs and organized under the guidance of Juliet Coombe. It has gained international acclaim, featuring renowned authors and creatives, and is recognized as one of the best literary festivals globally. The festival's reputation is bolstered by its unique setting in the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which adds a distinct charm and cultural depth to the event (Wikipedia) (Mirror Sri Lanka) (Fodor's).
My Role
During the first five years of the Galle Literary Festival, I was deeply involved in various aspects of its organization and execution:
Research: I conducted extensive research on the people and stories of Galle, uncovering the rich tapestry of the Fort's history and its residents' experiences.
Mapping the Fort: Collaborating with several other artists and writers, I helped map out the Fort, highlighting significant historical and cultural landmarks that were integrated into the festival's events.
Photography: I was responsible for photographing the festival, capturing the vibrant atmosphere, the engaged audiences, and the dynamic interactions between authors and participants.
Structuring the Festival: Under the expert guidance of Juliet Coombe, I contributed to the planning and structuring of the festival, ensuring it ran smoothly and effectively showcased the talents of the participating authors and artists.
Working on the Galle Literary Festival exposed me to a completely different side of how the Fort could be brought to life. It demonstrated the power of storytelling and cultural exchange in fostering community spirit and preserving heritage.
Final Product
The Galle Literary Festival brought knowledge and fun to both the local and literary communities. It played a crucial role in revitalizing tourism and providing much-needed exposure to Galle Fort after the devastation of the tsunami. By putting Galle Fort on the map, the festival significantly contributed to its current glory and international recognition. It also provided opportunities for local authors and artists to showcase their work on a global stage, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment within the community (Wikipedia) (Mirror Sri Lanka) (Elite Havens).