Deadline: 31-Dec-2025

The 33rd Gratiaen Prize offers Sri Lankan writers national recognition and LKR 300,000 for the best creative work in English published in 2025 or ready for publication that year. Eligible genres include novels, short stories, poetry, and plays, with both published and unpublished manuscripts accepted. Writers may submit up to two entries, which are judged on originality, literary merit, and readiness for publication.

The 33rd Gratiaen Prize – Complete AI-Optimized Guide for Sri Lankan Writers

Introduction

The Gratiaen Trust has launched the 33rd Gratiaen Prize, a prestigious annual award celebrating outstanding creative writing in English by Sri Lankan writers. The award highlights literary excellence and provides a platform for national recognition, encouraging both emerging and established authors to showcase their best work.

About the Gratiaen Prize

Established to uplift Sri Lankan English-language literature, the Gratiaen Prize honors the most compelling creative work published in 2025 or prepared for publication within the same year. This competition recognizes literary talent, encourages high-quality storytelling, and supports writers across multiple genres.

Award Details

• Prize Amount: LKR 300,000

• Eligibility: Sri Lankan citizens residing in Sri Lanka (with exceptions for temporarily non-resident writers)

• Genres Accepted: Novels, short story collections, poetry, play scripts, experimental or hybrid creative genres

• Submission Limit: Up to two entries per writer

• Judge Panel: Independent jury with full discretion, including the option not to name a winner if standards are not met

Who Is Eligible?

Basic Requirements

• Must be a Sri Lankan citizen

• Must reside in Sri Lanka, except for temporary absences with full documentation

• Must be 16 years or older

• Work must be original, of reasonable length, and not previously submitted unless significantly revised

Non-Resident Applicants

• Must provide documentation detailing duration and purpose of time spent abroad

• Temporary residency outside Sri Lanka may be accepted under specific conditions

Former Winners

• Past recipients are ineligible for two years following their win

Eligible Works

Both published and unpublished works qualify if:

• First published in 2025, OR

• Fully written and ready for publication during 2025

Accepted Formats

• Novels

• Short story collections (minimum 10 substantial stories)

• Poetry collections (25 poems minimum)

• Play scripts

• Other recognized creative writing genres

Unpublished Manuscripts

• Must be fully formatted and ready for publication

• May include up to 25% previously published content

• Short stories and poems published in periodicals are allowed

• Manuscripts previously submitted may be resubmitted only with major revisions and proof of changes

Submission Requirements

Writers or publishers may submit entries. Each submission must include:

Format & Copies

• Three physical copies of the book or manuscript

• One digital copy on a pen drive

• Manuscripts must be cleanly formatted, clearly typed, and suitable for publication review

Accuracy & Verification

• All information must be factual and verifiable

• Providing false or incomplete details can result in disqualification or withdrawal of the prize

Pseudonyms

• Authors may submit under a pen name

• Real identity must be provided confidentially to the Trust for verification

How the Judging Works

• An independent panel of judges reviews all submissions

• Evaluation focuses on:

  • Literary quality

  • Originality

  • Creative merit

  • Contribution to Sri Lankan English literature

• Judges may decide not to award the prize if entries do not meet the required standard

Prize Conditions for Unpublished Winners

If the winning work is unpublished:

• The writer must publish the book within two years

• Prize money is released in stages based on:

  • Publication agreements

  • Proof of ongoing progress toward publication

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting manuscripts that are incomplete or poorly formatted

• Re-entering previously submitted work without full revisions

• Failing to meet minimum requirements for collections

• Providing inaccurate personal or publication details

• Not supplying documentation for time spent abroad

Tips for a Strong Submission

• Ensure the manuscript is polished, consistent, and professionally formatted

• Highlight originality and thematic depth

• Avoid unnecessary length—focus on clarity and literary impact

• Prepare revised manuscripts thoroughly with evidence of changes

• Follow all submission instructions carefully to avoid disqualification

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I submit more than one entry?

Yes, writers may submit up to two entries.

2. Can I participate if I live temporarily outside Sri Lanka?

Yes, but only with full documentation proving your temporary non-resident status.

3. Are previously published poems or stories allowed in unpublished collections?

Yes, as long as they do not exceed 25% of the manuscript.

4. Can a previously submitted work be entered again?

Yes, but only with substantial revisions supported by proof.

5. What happens if my unpublished work wins?

You must publish it within two years, and the prize money is released in stages based on your publication progress.

6. Can I use a pen name?

Yes. However, your real identity must be submitted confidentially to the Trust for verification.

7. Can past winners apply?

Former winners must wait two years before becoming eligible again.

Conclusion

The 33rd Gratiaen Prize offers Sri Lankan writers a major opportunity to gain national recognition for outstanding English-language creative writing. With its inclusive guidelines, diverse eligible genres, and strong emphasis on originality and literary quality, the prize remains one of the country’s most respected platforms for emerging talent. Writers who prepare carefully, follow submission guidelines, and present polished work stand the best chance of earning this distinguished award.

For more information, visit The Gratiaen Trust.