Hariandi Todirijo, a multifaceted artist known for his work as a poet, writer, and photographer, has emerged as the winner of the 2023 Donner/Self Reliance Writing Contest with his novella, ‘Liliek en de onzichtbare spuiter.’ Originally trained in technological sciences, Todirijo later found his calling in journalism, contributing to publications like ‘de Ware Tijd.’ His literary prowess was further recognized in 2022 when he was nominated for the Ibis Prize in both prose and poetry categories.
The novella, spanning 104 pages, is distinguished by its use of Surinamese-Dutch, a variant of the Dutch language, interspersed with words from Sranan and Surinamese-Javanese. This linguistic choice not only enriches the narrative but also highlights the cultural diversity of Suriname. The story is set in Lelydorp, a town in Suriname, and is believed to take place in the latter half of the 20th century. References to Suralco’s mining activities and beverages like Spur Cola from Canada Dry provide a vivid historical backdrop.
‘Liliek en de onzichtbare spuiter’ is the first literary work to offer an insider’s perspective on Lelydorp. The protagonist, Liliek, a curious boy, becomes fascinated by tales of an ‘invisible sprayer’ haunting the public cemetery on Schotelweg. Despite his father’s knowledge of the area, Liliek embarks on a personal investigation, uncovering the deep-seated fears and reverence for spiritual forces within the community.
Todirijo masterfully builds suspense, keeping readers engaged until the very end. The dialogues are authentic, reflecting the community’s speech patterns. The novella explores themes of tradition, faith, and curiosity, presenting a universal story rooted in Surinamese reality. Liliek’s character, driven by a thirst for knowledge and a sense of community, resonates with young readers.
The book is set to be presented on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at B.S. Het Park at 7:00 PM. ‘Liliek en de onzichtbare spuiter’ is not just a literary achievement but also a cultural tribute to the spiritual and cultural richness of Lelydorp.