Is it possible for one person to shape the destiny of a nation? Here before us stands the T.B. Ilangaratne Statue. It commemorates a man who dedicated his life to the betterment of Sri Lanka. Let’s delve into the story of T.B. Ilangaratne.
T.B. Ilangaratne was born Navaratne Rajakaruna Wasala Mudiyanselage Tikiri Bandara Ilangaratne on February 27 1913. He was a multifaceted personality. He was a politician, author, dramatist and actor. Ilangaratne served as a Member of Parliament for Kandy, Galaha, Hewaheta and Kolonnawa.
Throughout his career, T.B. Ilangaratne held many significant cabinet positions. He was the Minister of Labour, Housing, Social Services and Finance. He also served as Minister of Commerce, Food, Trade and Shipping. He further served as Minister of Public Administration and Home Affairs. During Sirima Bandaranaike’s time as Prime Minister, he even acted as Head of State.
T.B. Ilangaratne championed groundbreaking policies. These aimed to uplift the lives of ordinary Sri Lankans. He established the Employees’ Provident Fund in 1958. This provided social security for private sector employees. He also adopted the Labour Disputes Act. He created the Shops and Office Employees Act. He passed the Maternity Leave Act. These measures protected the rights and well-being of workers.
Ilangaratne also played a key role in nationalizing private petroleum companies. He transferred their assets to the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation. He nationalized insurance. He established the Insurance Corporation and the People’s Bank. These actions aimed to ensure that vital industries benefited the nation.
Beyond politics, T.B. Ilangaratne was a prolific writer. He authored over 50 Sinhala novels. He wrote two English novels. His best-known work is the children’s novel “Amba Yahaluwo” published in 1957. Several of his novels were adapted into successful movies and television series.
Interestingly, T.B. Ilangaratne began his career as a government clerk. He became the President of the Government Clerical Services Union in 1947. He organized a rally against colonial rule. This led to his dismissal but fueled his political ambitions.
Ilangaratne married Tamara Kumari Aludeniya in 1944. She was also a politician. She was elected as the member for Kandy and Galagedara. Together, they were a powerful force in Sri Lankan politics. They had four children together.
Notably, T.B. Ilangaratne played a crucial role in the formation of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. He worked alongside S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike to create the party. This marked a turning point in Sri Lankan political history.
Moreover, T.B. Ilangaratne presented the national budget in Sinhala for the first time. This opened economic opportunities to a wider segment of the population. It allowed students to study economics in Sinhala.
T.B. Ilangaratne’s life was not without challenges. He faced vilification and unjust accusations. Despite this, he remained committed to serving the people of Sri Lanka. He passed away on May 21 1992. He left behind a legacy of selfless service and dedication.
As we stand before the T.B. Ilangaratne Statue, let us remember his contributions. He championed social justice. He promoted economic equality. T.B. Ilangaratne remains a symbol of visionary leadership. He is a man for all seasons in Sri Lanka’s history.