GENERAL SHAVENDRA SILVA GRACES CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF LATE MR U W SUMATHIPALA

The 100th Anniversary celebration of the late Mr U W Sumathipala, the founder of esteemed Sumathi Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, unfolded in a charming ceremony on 22 February 2024 at Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo.

At the invitation extended by the Chairman of the Sumathi Holdings (Pvt) Ltd Mr Jagath Sumathipala, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil attended the ceremony along with his spouse Mrs Sujeewa Nelson where they were warmly welcomed to the occasion. Attending the evening, the CDS commended the immeasurable service rendered by the founding father of Sumathi Holdings (Pvt) Ltd to the field of cinema and sports in the country.

This annual event, marking a century of the late Mr Sumathipala's legacy, took place amidst grandeur and reverence, commemorating not only the remarkable life of the visionary entrepreneur but also the enduring impact of his contributions to the respective fields.

In a momentous gesture, a biography detailing the life and achievements of the late Mr U W Sumathipala was unveiled during the ceremony, offering a poignant tribute to his indelible legacy. In alignment with the spirit of the occasion, Minister of Transport and Highways and Minister of Mass Media, Hon (Dr) Bandula Gunawardana unveiled a commemorative stamp, further immortalizing the enduring legacy of the late Mr Sumathipala and his profound impact on society.

The highlight of the evening was the distribution of five awards, three of which were dedicated to luminaries within the cinema industry, acknowledging their invaluable service and dedication. Additionally, one award was bestowed upon a distinguished sports personality, honoring achievements and commitment to excellence. Furthermore, the ceremony paid tribute to the longest-serving employee of Sumathi Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, underscoring the company's enduring commitment to its workforce.

The evening was coloured with the presence of the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, and a host of intellectuals, personalities from the cinema field, and other distinguished invitees in attendance.