Kalasuri Ariesen Ahubudu was a distinguished Sri Lankan poet, lyricist, linguist, educator, and patriotic scholar, widely respected for his lasting contributions to Sinhala literature and culture. Born in Malalagama, Koggala in 1920, he served as a teacher at renowned institutions including Mahinda College, Galle, Mahabodhi College, Maradana, and St. Thomas' College, Mount Lavinia. During his nearly three decades at St. Thomas' College, he mentored many outstanding students who went on to make significant contributions to society. In later years, he was appointed Literary Advisor to the President, while also becoming widely recognized for his expertise in creating meaningful Sinhala baby names rooted in Sri Lankan language, culture, and tradition.
Kalasuri Ariesen Ahubudu began his distinguished career as a lyricist with "Lanka Lanka Pembara Lanka," composed for Sunil Shantha. He went on to write nearly a thousand songs, including celebrated works such as "Dakuna Neganahira," "Emba Ganga," "Walakulin Besa," "Gilem Obe Guna Moode," "Athu Aga Dili Vana Mal," "Senkadagalapura," and "Saman Wale Mal." His songs for the film "Sandesaya," including "Sudata Sude Walakulai," "Punsanda Eliyayi," and "Puruthugeesi Karaya," marked a turning point in the evolution of Sinhala film music. He also made an outstanding contribution to Sinhala poetry, receiving State Literary Awards for Paraviya, Rasa Dahara, Athu Aga Dili Mal, and Sakvithi Kith Resa. His notable literary works include Buddha Vansaya, Kanda Devi Upatha, Ira Handa Negi Rata, Sinhala Vansaya, Nonivena Pahan, Nomiyena Mathaka, and Ovadana.
Mr. Ahubudu also played a significant role in enriching Sri Lankan children's literature. His story Raja Gona earned a State Literary Award, while books such as Malli Ipadeema, Mal Paththiya, Paaluwa, Dinuma, Kiribatha, Aththatu, Mihiri Tikiri Sina, and Saman Wele Mal continue to be appreciated by young readers. He also received a State Literary Award for the children's song "Kauruda Kauruda Den Lokko," written for the film "Handaya." His renowned stage drama Sakvithi Ravana remains one of his most celebrated theatrical works, reflecting the remarkable legacy he left in Sri Lankan literature, music, and the arts.
Inspired by Guru Deva Kumaratunga Munidasa, Kalasuri Ariesen Ahubudu became a member of the Hela Havula movement and later served as its leader. He introduced a fresh approach to the art of naming, creating many well-known names such as Sethsiripaya, Visumpaya, Salaka, and Sadeepa. His dedication to preserving the Sinhala language and culture also laid the foundation for creating meaningful, simple, and endearing names for newborns, a legacy that continues to inspire families today.
Samanthi Ahubudu inherited the art of coining names from her father, Kalasuri Ariesen Ahubudu, and mastered this unique tradition under his guidance. Following his passing, she has continued his lifelong mission by creating thousands of simple, meaningful, and pleasant names for newborn children. Her expertise has been trusted by the families of internationally renowned sports personalities, distinguished politicians, and celebrated artists. Alongside her dedication to naming, she is actively involved in a variety of social service initiatives.