Abstract:
The transmission of cultural elements from generation to generation plays a pivotal role in the preservation of a society's identity and heritage. In Sri Lanka, the importance of instilling Sinhala culture in children is paramount, as they represent the future torchbearers of this rich heritage. This research seeks to explore how authors of children's literature in Sri Lanka utilize their works as a medium for cultural transmission. The central question addressed in this study pertains to the impact of children's literature on transmitting Sinhala culture to young readers. Qualitative research methodology was employed to investigate this issue. Primary data was collected through interviews with ten randomly selected children, aged 6-10, from the Kandy Kundsalaya Divisional Secretariat. Additionally, content analysis was conducted on ten selected children's books using secondary data sources. The findings of this research suggest that children's literature in Sri Lanka may benefit from greater attention to the quality of backgrounds, characters, illustrations, and colour schemes. Furthermore, it is evident that contemporary writers have not prioritized the transmission of Sinhala culture but have learned more towards embracing foreign cultures, often driven by the forces of globalization. Notably, children exhibit a proclivity towards colourful visuals and readily available publications. While there are no limits to the creative potential of designers, the younger generation's receptiveness to cultural elements is pivotal in determining the enduring essence of a society's culture. Therefore, it is crucial to acknowledge that the absence of proper regulations on children's literature has had repercussions on the quality of such works. Considering these findings, it becomes imperative to recognize the potential of children's literature in nurturing Sinhala literature and preserving and transmitting cultural heritage. This necessitates engaging creators of children's publications, implementing interventions at a national level, and endorsing a series of pertinent recommendations to safeguard the cultural legacy of Sri Lanka.
