Lester celebrates 97th birthday
Doyen of Sri Lankan cinema, Dr. Lester James Peries celebrated his 97th birthday on April 5 at his residence. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe joined this world renowned filmmaker while a number of close friends in his family and films were present.
“Ko Rekhawa”
The birthday cake for the Father of Sri Lankan cinema was decorated resembling three films reels with photos of his films around it. Prime Minister Wickremesinghe who closely observed the photos suddenly found that something was missing. He exclaimed “Ko Rekhawa” (Where is Rekhawa) referring to master filmmaker’s landmark debut film and the premier identified that the cake decoration was missing a picture from the film ‘Rekhawa’.
“How can I cut their throats?”
Unassuming and witty Lester looking at the birthday cake designed for his 97th birthday found that if he cuts the cake it would cut the heads of yesteryear film stars whose photographs were in the cake decoration. Sharing a light banter Lester said “Ammo Mama Kohomada Beli Kapannne, Mata Nam Behe Beli Kapanna” (How can I cut their throats. I cannot involved in the cut throat business” and kept his palm on his head while the others sang “Happy Birth Day to you Lester…”
Pics by Pradeep Pathirana