The Idiot Isles (The Republic of Ridiculand)
Subtitle: ආසික්ලන්තය
Publisher: PothMee Publication by Nissh Em
Published: 2023-09-22
Description: Muthumudalige Nissanka (Nissh Em): A Rebel with a Pen and a Purpose

Behind every powerful story is a voice that dares to speak the unspeakable. For Muthumudalige Nissanka, known widely by his pen name Nissh Em, that voice has become a force for change—whispering truths, shouting injustices, and echoing through generations. A Sri Lankan author, filmmaker, and outspoken social observer, Nissanka has spent his life weaving words into mirrors that reflect both beauty and brokenness in our world.

Hailing from humble beginnings in Sri Lanka, Nissanka’s journey began not with fame or fortune, but with a deep curiosity and a restless imagination. As a child, he found refuge in writing, turning his thoughts into stories and his observations into poetry. Over time, that private world of words evolved into a public mission—to speak for those who couldn’t, to question what others wouldn’t, and to tell stories that matter.

His storytelling took root online, where under the name “Mutumudali’s Nisshanka,” he shared raw, honest reflections on life, society, and identity. His posts quickly gained traction, striking a chord with thousands who saw their own struggles reflected in his work. The outpouring of support led him to publish his first books—launching a literary career that now includes over sixteen titles, many of them national bestsellers in Sri Lanka.

But Nissanka is no ordinary author. His writing dives headfirst into the shadows—tackling taboo topics, dismantling cultural hypocrisy, and peeling back layers of silence surrounding mental health, religion, sexuality, and social inequality. With a style that blends gritty realism, poetic vulnerability, and eerie mystery, his stories live at the edge of the familiar and the forbidden. Whether it’s horror, romance, or psychological drama, every tale he tells is rooted in truth.

Beyond the page, Nissanka is a filmmaker in pursuit of a long-held dream: to bring his stories to life on screen. His cinematic vision isn’t just about visuals—it’s about impact. He aims to create films that move people, spark dialogue, and shed light on the realities so often ignored. He’s also a passionate speaker and mentor, known for motivating young people and creatives who feel unheard or unseen.

Having lived and worked in more than 25 countries, Nissanka’s worldview is global, yet his heart remains tethered to his Sri Lankan roots. His stories reflect this duality—rich in local culture yet universally relatable, filled with characters and places that speak across borders.

He’s also the founder of PothMee Publication, a publishing house that champions emerging voices and focuses on youth literature and translated fiction. Additionally, through HelpPIN , his NGO, Nissanka is committed to educational outreach and youth empowerment—another extension of his lifelong mission to make a difference.

Today, as Nissh Em, he continues to challenge, inspire, and awaken. His stories—bold, unfiltered, and deeply human—remind us that silence is not golden when it hides the truth. He writes not just to entertain, but to disrupt, heal, and ignite change. In a world that often fears difficult conversations, Nissh Em invites us to listen anyway.
Table of contents: title: About "The Idiot Isles (The Republic of Ridiculand)"; title: The Idiot Isles marks my first venture into the genre of black comedy—a bold, satirical space where serious, often taboo, socio-political themes are explored through irony, wit, and humor. Also known as dark comedy, this genre has a unique ability: it takes difficult, painful, and complex subjects—be it politics, culture, or society—and presents them in a way that’s digestible, engaging, and even entertaining, without losing their deeper meaning.; title: Black comedy invites us to laugh and think at the same time. It mirrors reality—much like Orwell’s Animal Farm—and holds up a lens to our world that is both critical and absurd. This genre might be new to me as a creator, but the experience of crafting this story has been incredibly liberating. It's also quite rare in Sri Lanka’s literary landscape, which makes this book a unique addition to our local publishing scene.; title: Over the past three years, I’ve written and published fifteen books, each belonging to different genres—ranging from social and political instability to sexual and psychological themes. I’ve never been afraid to address the uncomfortable or to break away from societal expectations. I believe art should not be caged. An artist, like the sky, should be vast and free—unrestricted by cultural, political, or social barriers. Only then can meaningful, lasting art be born.; title: Every book I write is an open conversation. I don’t censor myself to please systems or uphold traditions. Yes, this has often brought me criticism, personal attacks, and controversy—but I’ve always embraced it. Because I believe if even one person finds clarity, reflection, or inspiration through my work, it’s worth every challenge.; title: The Idiot Isles—or as some readers call it, The Idiot Isles (The Republic of Ridiculand) - is one of those rare creations. It is a political and social satire wrapped in humor, but with sharp commentary hidden between the laughs. Each chapter, each line, is layered with meaning. You may notice reflections of your country, your society, or even yourself. You might laugh at the absurdity - then pause, and reflect on how real it all feels.; title: I won't explain too much, because this book will speak to you in its own voice. The characters, the ridiculous events, the madness - they will all feel strangely familiar. If you catch a glimpse of your world in this fictional one, don’t be surprised. That’s the power of satire.; title: So read with an open heart. Think freely. And if, even for a moment, this book makes you question something you once accepted without thought - then this story has done its job.; title: With that, I leave the rest to you.; title: - Muthumudalige Nissanka (Nissh Em)