Prime Minister calls for quality films

Rasika SOMARATHNA

COLOMBO: Quality films are a must to attract filmgoers, said Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayake.

The Government will give its unstinted support for artistes to produce quality films, he said as the chief guest at the 31st Sarasaviya Film Festival organised by the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd at the BMlCH on Thursday.

Awards were presented to outstanding films and artistes for films screened in 2005 and 2006.

The film Iramediyama by Prasanna Vithanage won the award for the best film in 2005 and Uduganyamaya by Sudath Devapriya won the award for the best film in 2006. The two also bagged the best director’s awards.

Chandani Senevirathne for her role in Uduganyamaya won the best actress 2006 while Ranjan Ramanayake for his role in Nilambare won the best actor’s award for 2006.

The best actress’ award for 2005 was won by Dilhani Asokamala and the best actor’s award was bagged by Mahendra Perera for his role in Sudu, Kalu saha Alu.

An award was presented to Dr. Lester James Peris for his outstanding contribution to the Sri Lankan Cinema. The award was received by his wife Sumithra.

Ranathisara awards were presented to Shesha Palihakkara, Roy de Silva, Indrani Wijebandara and D. G. L. Perera in recognition of their contribution to the Sri Lankan cinema. Mass Media and Information Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardene, Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya and ANCL Acting Chairman and Director Editorial Sarath Kongahage were present. People’s Bank was the main sponsor of the 31st Sarasaviya Film Festival.