I was very excited yesterday! I received the first copies of my book, 'Siyama', from Pegasus. The book officially went on sale today. Their full trade name is Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie Publishers Limited.
This is my first book published in the UK, and it feels incredible!
I have so many people to thank:
My elder daughter, Shania, a talented artist in our family, created the beautiful front cover. Despite being busy studying, working, dancing, and drawing, she found the time to create this gift for me.
My younger daughter, Shakyra, helped immensely in editing and correcting the grammar while also being busy with her studies. Thank you to both of you!
It was my friend and writer, H.B. Gunarathna, and veterinary surgeon, Dr. Dammaika Chandani, who constantly encouraged me to create the English version of the book.
My ever-loving wife has the patience of Mount Everest to deal with me, as writing books, blogs, and whatnot takes time away from her. Thank you for your unwavering support.
I'd also like to thank the friends who wrote reviews about Siyama earlier in Sri Lanka, including writer/journalist Padmini Matarage, award-winning writer Nissaka Wijemanna, and award-winning writer and blogger Dr. Bodini Samarathunga. The Agora Art Circle also discussed the Sinhala version of the book. Thank you to all of you.
The book will be available to buy from Amazon and will also be available in bookshops soon.
A special thank you to the lovely Laura Radcliffe for buying the very first copy!
In amazon: Buy here.
In a world marred by religious extremism and societal prejudices, Siyama shines a light on the power of human connections and resilience. Set against the backdrop of a university campus, Priyan's chance encounter with Siyama sparks a friendship that transcends cultural barriers and societal expectations. As they navigate academic challenges and shared interests, they uncover layers of personal histories marked by trauma, resilience, and the quest for identity. Themes of friendship, cultural complexities, and emotional bonds weave through their journey, revealing the depths of human emotions and the strength found in supportive relationships. Siyama is a poignant narrative that delves into themes of trauma, trust, friendship, and the complexities of human relationships, offering a glimpse into the triumph of the human spirit amidst adversity.
7 comments:
Congratulations and Good luck! Hope it will get the attention of the readers.
Thank you very much. It's on the Amazon but they did not send teh stocks yet.
Congratulations!
Thank you Econ.
I can send you a copy . I have books now.
As both of us are book lovers and writers—and long-standing friends—I encouraged Ajith Dharmakeerthi to take this story to as many readers as possible. Writing it in English felt like the only practical way to widen that circle, and that was the spirit in which I supported him.
I was humbled to be acknowledged in his book Siyama. I did not expect it, nor did I see my role as anything extraordinary.
Siyama is not a book one reads casually. It is a book one enters—and once inside, there is no looking away.
Through cancer, abuse, abduction, violence, and unspeakable suffering, Ajith Dharmakeerthi opens a door into a mind shaped by trauma and survival.
The opening lines prepare us for that descent, and the pages that follow keep their promise. The story is painful, disturbing, and deeply human.
I truly admire the intelligence and courage it took to write Siyama. Handling material like this without exaggeration or drama is not easy. The truth is allowed to speak for itself, and that takes restraint.
Being there for someone—without judgment, without conditions—is not heroism. It’s a responsibility we owe one another.
This book reminds us of that truth. It asks us to listen when silence would be easier, to stay when leaving would be more comfortable, and to care when caring costs us something.
Heartbreaking as it is, Siyama matters. It stands as a quiet but firm reminder that survival is rarely solitary—and that sometimes, simply being there can change the course of a life.
I congratulate Ajith Dharmakeerthi on the successful publication of Siyama—a significant and well-earned step on his path as a writer.
Wishing Siyama a long, thoughtful journey in readers’ hands—and wishing you steady joy in your own words, wherever they go next.
K. H. D. Chandani
Thank you very much. Very thoughtfull writing.
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