When did I first see her ? In “Angaara Ganga” stage drama, was it ? Or on stage at the JVP musical event called “Vimukthi Gee” (Liberation Songs) ? Never mind that, but when did I first meet her ?
Definitely 30 years ago. My vague recollection is, I met her for the first time, when she came with Leena Irene Haputhanthri to Padmini Palliyaguru's residence in a cul-de-sac off a by road in Embuldeniya. A science trained teacher, Padmini was a teachers' union activist who struck work in '80 July and politically a JVP in her early union period. I wasn't then sure what Sunila's career was and never bothered. She carried away the discussion and proved she can induce others to "follow her." That was one place most women activists huddled together to debate everything from feminism to politics to ethnic violence. Now and then I used to meet her at No. 06, Aloe Avenue, when I used to drop in there. That was when Kumi, while working with the MIRJE was into active "Left" politics and had a close political link with the minority group in the NSSP through me. I used to meet Sunila in very many other places and forums too, often to disagree rather than to agree. Yet she leaves with her sweet and sincere smile that never wears off and keeps space for yet another meeting.
Kusal Perera
