News
Pulitzer finalist Eranga Jayawardena presents historic AP Archive Photos to President Wickremesinghe
Eranga Jayawardena, an acclaimed photographer who was recently named a Pulitzer Prize Finalist in breaking news photography and received the Global Award for Excellence in photography at the SOPA Awards 2023, had a momentous meeting with Sri Lanka’s current President, Ranil Wickremesinghe. On July 6, 2023, at the President’s office, Eranga Jayawardena had the honor of presenting a collection of AP archives photos capturing significant moments in Sri Lanka’s history.
The photos presented by Jayawardena held immense historical value. One set showcased the state dinner held at the White House in 1984, hosted by former US President Ronald Reagan in honor of former Sri Lankan President J.R Jayewardene. These captivating images documented a remarkable event where the two nations came together in celebration and diplomacy.
In addition to the state dinner photos, Eranga Jayawardena also shared a series of images capturing the arrival of renowned Jazz musician Duke Ellington in Ceylon, as Sri Lanka was known back in 1943. These photographs not only showcased the cultural significance of Duke Ellington’s visit but also highlighted the historical context of the country during that period.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe received the photos with great appreciation and interest. The President recognized the importance of preserving and commemorating such significant moments from Sri Lanka’s past. Eranga Jayawardena’s son, Ravin, was also present during the presentation, witnessing this proud moment for his father.
The meeting between Eranga Jayawardena and President Wickremesinghe served as a testament to the power of photography in capturing and preserving historical events. It showcased the valuable contribution of photographers like Jayawardena in documenting and immortalizing the rich heritage and cultural exchanges of Sri Lanka.
Eranga Jayawardena’s achievement in receiving prestigious awards such as the Pulitzer Prize Finalist and the Global Award for Excellence in photography further elevated the significance of the AP archives photos presented to the President. Through his exceptional talent and dedication, Jayawardena continues to bring attention to the important stories and visual narratives that shape our understanding of history.
The presentation of these remarkable photos marked a memorable occasion, highlighting the importance of honoring and preserving Sri Lanka’s cultural and diplomatic milestones. The images captured by Eranga Jayawardena will undoubtedly serve as a valuable resource for future generations, offering glimpses into the nation’s past and fostering a deeper appreciation for its heritage.
It has been reported that, former Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, General Hamilton Wanasinghe has passed away at the age of 91.
Secretary to the President Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake has instructed relevant officials to provide the maximum support necessary to successfully hold the Global Bora Community’s Spiritual Assembly and Convention scheduled to take place in Sri Lanka.
The Secretary to the President issued these instructions during discussions held on Thursday (12) at the Presidential Secretariat regarding the Global Bora Conference and Convention.
The Bora Conference and Convention will be held from 27 June to 05 July, coinciding with the Bora Community’s Spiritual Assembly, centred on the Bambalapitiya Bora Mosque and the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre, with the participation of the community’s Spiritual Leader His Holiness Dr Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin Sahib.
Approximately fifteen thousand members of the Bora Community from India and numerous other countries are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka for this Convention and Conference. Extensive discussions were held regarding the provision of all infrastructure facilities, including airport arrangements, for them.
A group of the Bora Community’s religious leaders, along with officials including the Secretary to the Foreign Ministry, Aruni Ranaraja and Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage, participated in this occasion.
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has reached consensus with Sri Lanka Podu Jana Peramuna (SLPP), United National Party (UNP) and the People’s Alliance (PA) to take control of Akurana, Kadugannawa, Kuliyapitiya and Udubaddawa Pradeshiya Sabhas.
Opposition parties made the announcement at a joint media briefing by SJB National Organiser Tissa Attanayake, SLPP General Secretary Sagara Kariyawasam, PA General Secretary Lasantha Alagiyawanna and UNP General Secretary Thalatha Athukorala.
Terms of 161 out of 339 local government bodies to which elections were held in May commenced on June 2. The ruling NPP and the Opposition parties have been trying to seize control of the remaining councils. Contestants failed to secure working majorities in 178 councils. Both sides have accused each other of trying to bribe elected members in a bid to take control of the councils.
Elections were not held to two local government institutions on 06 May—the Kalmunai Urban Council due to a court case and the Elpitiya Pradeshiya Sabha (PS), which was elected last year.
Responding to questions, the Opposition spokespersons said that they were confident of forming administration and many more councils.
SJB sources said that the Opposition was also working on an arrangement regarding the Colombo Municipal Council scheduled to meet on Monday (16) for the first time when the Mayor will be elected.
Leader of Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) Mano Ganeshan, MP, has alleged that the NPP bribed two of its members in the Haldumulla PS to vote in favour of the person nominated by the NPP as the chairman.
Former Army Commander General Hamilton Wanasinghe passes away at the age of 91
Air India plane crash claims at least 241 lives as one passenger survives
Government to facilitate Bora Conference
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