THE IMPACT OF BUDDHIST MORAL PHILOSOPHY ON SINHALA POETRY : AN ANALYTICAL STUDY COCERNING WIMALARATHNA KUMARAGAMA'S POETRY

 A research paper published at ICBS - International Conference on Buddhist Studies – 2021

This research which investigates the impact of Buddhist moral philosophy on Sinhala poetry was conducted under the analytical method. The impact of Buddhism on Sri Lankan culture is a pivotal factor. It is perceived in ancient and modern literature as well. The objective of this study is to analyze the impact of Buddhist moral philosophy upon the aesthetic quality of poetry. Religious influence often tends to restrict poetic freedom and thus decreases the quality of a poetic work. Yet, it is different in terms of Sinhala literature. Instead of setting limitations, Buddhist moral philosophy has contributed to developing an artistic value. Wimalarathna Kumaragama, who belongs to the second wave of Sri Lankan Romantic poetry, was immensely influenced by Buddhist philosophy. Generally the poetry of this era attempts to protect religious ideologies and morality at large. Likewise, most of Kumaragama's poems are based on a Buddhist social background. His poetic works; 'Walas Dadayama', 'Ayyanayaka' and 'Herathhami' are such instances. Kumaragama has incorporated moral philosophy into his poetry in an artistic manner instead of a mere direct expression. There is a mature and literary-critical reading on immoral activities including killing, robbing, and telling lies. Thus, it was unraveled through this research paper that Kumaragama's poetry is impregnated with a sense of Buddhist moral philosophy.

Keywords: Moral Philosophy. Sinhala, Kumaragama. Poetic Quality