The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore partnering with the Asian Film Archive in Singapore organised a Sri Lanka Film Festival to screen internationally acclaimed Sri Lankan films as a series of promotional and cultural exchange programmes launched to commemorate 75th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence.

The Film Festival continued from 10-11 March 2023 and entailed the screening of a pair of restored Sri Lankan classics, which were well received by Singapore movie lovers, diplomatic corps, members of Sri Lankan community and expatriates based in Singapore.

The Film Festival opened with the screening of “Bambaru Awith” directed by Dr. Dharmasena Pathiraja on 10 March 2023. The film screening was preceded by a reception hosted by the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Singapore Sashikala Premawardhane. Executive Director of Asian Film Archive, Singapore – Karan Chan, made an introduction to the festival at the opening ceremony.

Welcoming those present at the opening ceremony, High Commissioner Sashikala Premawardhane stated that this exercise would connect people, cultures and ideas in amazing ways across regions making a real difference to understanding Sri Lanka in all its manifestations. The High Commissioner further added that the event will become a significant cultural gateway, which through the powerful medium of cinema, will build closer ties between the global city of Singapore and Sri Lanka. High Commissioner Premawardhane thanked the Executive Director and the team of Asian Film Archive, Singapore for their support and partnership to introduce Sri Lankan Cinema to Singapore.

Another restored Sri Lankan classic “Nidhanaya” directed by Dr. Lester James Peiris was screened on 11 March 2023. The festival provided an opportunity to introduce Sri Lankan art cinema to the Singapore public and enhance the image of Sri Lanka in Singapore.