Internationally acclaimed Sri Lankan film director, screenwriter, and film producer Dr. Lester James Peiris has passed away at a private hospital in Colombo on Sunday, April 29 at the age of 99.
Dr. Peiris who is considered as the father of Sinhala cinema just celebrated his 99th Birthday on 5th April.
Dr. Peiris revolutionized the Sinhala film industry with his globally acclaimed film “Rekawa” in 1956. “Rekava” made a revolution in Sinhala cinema and was adjudged the best film in several international festivals.
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He directed a number of films in variety of themes and represented Sri Lanka in many international film festivals winning awards.
He went on to produce 28 award-wining movies including Sandesaya, Gamperaliya, Delovak Atara, Golu Hadawatha, Nidhanaya, Madol Duwa, Weera Puran Appu, Kaliyugaya, Yuganthaya, Baddegama, Wekanda Wallauwa and Avaragira.
Dr. Peiris earned several honors and awards including the Sri Lankabhimanya tile, Sri Lanka’s highest honor for a civilian.
He was married to the equally renowned directress Sumitra Peiris since 1964.
