Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Genre: Sri Lankan History, Local History, Colonial History

Book Review:
''Colonial Kollupitiya: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time''

H.M. Mervyn P. Herath's ''Colonial Kollupitiya and Its Environs'' is a labor of love and a precious gift to the history of Colombo. This book is not a dry, academic text but a warm, rambling collection of anecdotes and memories that bring a bygone era to life.

Herath, a man deeply rooted in the Kollupitiya community, takes the reader on a fascinating journey through the area's colonial past. He meticulously documents its landmarks, from grand buildings to humble shops, and recounts the stories of the people who lived and worked there. The book is filled with delightful tales of successful business enterprises that had their cradle in Kollupitiya, as well as the social fabric that wove the community together.

What makes this book particularly special is its ability to bridge generations. As Joy Soonawickrema notes in the blurb, it helps elders recall forgotten yarns of their past while enticing younger readers to explore the history right beneath their feet. The inclusion of rare reproductions and photographs adds immense value, making the history visually tangible.

''Colonial Kollupitiya'' is an essential read for anyone interested in Sri Lanka's colonial heritage, urban development, or simply the stories of a place that has transformed over the decades. It's a charming, informative, and deeply personal tribute to a neighborhood that holds a significant place in the heart of Colombo. A must-have for local historians and Colombo nostalgics alike.