Gamini Punchihewa felicitated

In recognition of a freelance career spanning forty-five years, the state presented veteran author and journalist Gamini G. Punchihewa with a "Desha Prasadi" award, commending him for his contributions to literature.A past pupil of Mahinda College, Galle and Prince of Wales College, Moratuwa, Mr. Punchihewa worked on the Gal Oya Development Board, the Mahaveli Authority of Sri Lanka, and embarked on his journalistic career in 1962.

Over the past forty-five years, he has written a number of articles about the ancient civilizations and wildlife of Sri Lanka. Mr. Punchihewa has written seven books, the first being "Souvenirs of a Forgotten Heritage" which was published in 1990. It was followed by Vignettes of Far off Things, Animals Far and Near, The History and Legend of the Great Sandy River, The Lost Medieval Kingdom of the Lion King, Splendours of Ruhuna's Heritage and Kelani Ganga Flows with History. His 8th and 9th publications are expected to be released shortly.