By

Ishara Mudugamuwa

The government has declared April 5 (today) as ‘National Cinema Day’ as a tribute to late Veteran film director Dr. Lester James Perie

Addressing the media yesterday at his Ministry, Housing, Construction and Cultural Affairs Minister Sajith Premadasa said that the Ministry has decided to declare a National Cinema Day to mark the 100 year birth anniversary of Dr.James Peries.

Starting from this year, Sri Lankans will be celebrating April 5 every year as ‘National Cinema Day’, the Minister said.

The extraordinary gazette notification declaring ‘National Cinema Day’ has already been issued and the first the first ever cinema day celebrations will be held at National Film Corporation premises today.

In line with Cinema Day celebrations, the Ministry has also taken measures to establish a library and a museum in remembrance of Dr. Lester James Peries at a cost of Rs.15 million at the Film Corporation premises.

The Minister further said that the construction activities of the Model Village, named after Dr. Peries is currently going on and measures will also be taken to establish another 24 model villages which will be named in memory of Dr.Peries.

Cultural Affairs Ministry Secretary Bernard Wasantha, Cultural Affairs Department Director and National Film Corporation Chairperson Anusha Gokula, National Film Corporation Working Director Kumara Jayakantha participated.

Courtesy:Daily News