|
[Tribute]
Kamalini Wijayatilake
It was in l99l after I took over the subject of ‘Women’s Affairs’
that I first came into contact with Kamalini the small-made but large
hearted person who was well versed with the subject of Gender Relations
and its implications on the different strata of women. With her
knowledge and experience as a researcher and activist on the subject and
her legal background, she was much sought after as an advisor, trainer
cum resource person on the subject and also as mentor by many persons
and institutions both locally and abroad.
Her deep understanding of social relations and behaviour made her
contributions truly valuable and applicable to individuals and
institutions at all levels. Her illustrated set of booklets presenting
fundamental human rights (published by CENWOR) was one such example.
Her competence on the subject coupled with her humble and simple
mannerisms and generosity in sharing knowledge were exceptional
qualities which also made her accessible to all at all times. Unlike
other experts on various fields, she was willing to share her expertise
free of charge. I gratefully recall the many instances when I benefitted
from her expert views and comments on the subject.
She was a true human being, able to understand the feelings of others
voluntarily came forward to assist persons in distress and acted against
any type of injustice.
When I was going through difficult times in l995, I remember how
supportive she was. She even took the initiative to show her
appreciation by meeting me with a bouquet of flowers just before I quit
my position at Women’s Affairs.
I never guessed then that I would be laying a bouquet at her coffin
following an untimely death. Her demise was truly a loss to women kind
and also to humanity.
In accordance with Buddhist philosophy, she had earned so much merit
that it would suffice to prevent her from ever facing an untimely death
in her passage through Samsara. May she attain Nibbana.
- Lalitha Dissanayake - Former Secretary to Women’s Affairs Ministry
|
