Sirisumana Godage

It’s hard to believe he’s really gone. Sirisumana, or “Siri” as we all knew him, slipped away peacefully on April 29th, at the grand old age of 90. Ninety years of a life brimming with passion, kindness, and a truly remarkable spirit. I’ve known Siri since I was a little girl, and even then, he had this incredible way of making everyone feel seen and valued. I remember one time, I’d completely ruined a cake I was baking for my mother’s birthday – a sticky, lopsided mess – and Siri, instead of being disappointed, just laughed and said, “Don’t worry, darling, the love is what counts!” That was Siri in a nutshell: always finding the good, always offering a comforting word and a genuine smile. Siri’s legacy extends far beyond his incredible work as the chairman of Godage International Publishers. He built that company from the ground up, nurturing a love of books and knowledge in Sri Lanka, and bringing so many important stories to our people. But for Siri, it was never just about business. He adored collecting first editions, spending hours in his study surrounded by towering shelves, and he’d always tell the most fascinating stories about the authors and the history behind each book. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Mala, and a fiercely proud father and grandfather. Mala was his rock, his partner in everything, and their love was a beautiful, enduring thing to witness. He had this infectious enthusiasm for life – a real zest for travel, a deep appreciation for good food (especially Sri Lankan curry!), and a surprising talent for playing the ukulele. He’d often be found strumming away on it, much to the amusement of everyone around him. Siri had a knack for bringing people together, for fostering a sense of community wherever he went. He genuinely cared about others and always went out of his way to help, whether it was mentoring young entrepreneurs or supporting local charities. He received the honorary title of Deshabandhu for his service to the nation, a testament to the impact he had on so many lives. Sirisumana, you were a force of nature – a kind, generous, and utterly unforgettable man. You’ll be deeply missed, but the stories you shared, the lessons you taught, and the love you gave will live on in all of us who were lucky enough to know you. Rest in peace, my dear Siri.