The publication titled ‘Edmondge Paththara Viplawaya’ (‘Edmond’s Newspaper Revolution’), a compilation of veteran journalist Edmond Ranasinghe’s seven decades of dedicated media work was launched at a ceremony at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 3.
Addressing the ceremony President Wickremesinghe said that all media outlets, including social media, should engage in a discussion regarding whether to enter into international agreements or adhere to the country’s legal framework.
This event marked the inauguration of a program initiated by President Wickremesinghe to pay tribute to senior journalists who have made significant contributions to the field of journalism in the country.
During the ceremony, the book ‘Edmond’s Newspaper Revolution,’ a compilation recognising Ranasinghe’s seven decades of media dedication at the age of 93, was also unveiled. This book was authored by President’s Media Advisor Prof. Sunanda Madduma Bandara and edited by Presidential Media Director W. M. K. Wijebandara and Deputy Media Director Deepti Adhikari.
President Wickremesinghe lauded veteran journalist Edmond Ranasinghe, the founder Editor and Editorial Director of the Divaina newspaper as a trailblazer who catalysed transformative changes in Sri Lankan journalism. He also highlighted that Edmond Ranasinghe’s contribution to media, spanning seven decades, played a pivotal role in advancing Sri Lankan society, economy and politics. Furthermore, the President underscored the importance of exploring how artificial intelligence can enhance the field of media art to create more effective media outlets.
The President said, “In 1977, when I initially ran for election in the Biyagama Constituency, I sought out a skilled journalist to write an article for me. My father promptly recommended Edmond Ranasinghe, who subsequently penned my first political article. I held onto it until last year, but regrettably, I no longer possess it.”
During my father’s tenure as the Chairman of Lake House, Edmond Ranasinghe served admirably as the Editor of newspapers such as Silumina and Dinamina. Piyasena Nishanka and M.A. Silva along with Martin Wickramasinghe received recognition from senior journalists and writers. Consequently, Ranasinghe possesses substantial experience in both the media landscape that existed before independence and the one that emerged thereafter, he said.
President Wickremesinghe said, “In 1953, when rice prices surged, Dudley Senanayake was compelled to resign as Prime Minister. Sixty-nine years later, Gotabaya Rajapaksa faced a similar predicament over fuel shortages. Throughout these 69 years, Ranasinghe has amassed a wealth of experience, making him capable of writing a comprehensive book on the subject.
The President said Ranasinghe played a pivotal role in the press struggle of 1964 and his experiences undeniably left an indelible mark on the media culture of our nation. However, the landscape of print media is undergoing significant changes. Journalism, once reliant on lead type, has evolved to include tools like the iPad. The capacity to swiftly access knowledge, even within a venerable institution like the Lake House Institute, has been realised through technological advancements. Consequently, technology has become an invaluable tool for advancing the field of journalism.
Upali Tennakoon, the former Editor-In-Chief of the Divaina newspaper and founder Editor of Rivira newspaper residing in the United States, delivered the keynote address at the tribute ceremony.
He said, “I am honoured to have been invited to deliver the keynote address at the tribute ceremony honouring Edmond Ranasinghe’s remarkable seven-decade career in the media industry.”
Ranasinghe was never one to seek accolades; he always considered his work a service. Consequently, he held the belief that awards were of little significance. However, in accordance with President Wickremesinghe’s vision, this tribute holds great significance. Edmond Ranasinghe stands as the most experienced journalist in the realm of journalism, he said.
Tennakoon said beginning his media journey as a journalist at the Lake House Institute’s Daily News newspaper in 1952, Edmond Ranasinghe resigned from his post in 1973 in protest against the Government’s takeover of Lake House, where he held the position of Deputy Editor.
In 1977, he was once again appointed as the Editor of Dinamina by the same Lake House, later assuming the role of Editor at Silumina as well. In 1981, as the founder Editor of the Divaina newspaper, Ranasinghe swiftly steered journalism in this country towards new horizons, elevating it to unprecedented levels of popularity. At the age of 86 in 2016, he returned as the Editor of Silumina, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the field.
Ranasinghe’s approach aimed not to overwhelm readers with empty pages but rather to cultivate an intelligent readership. His career had two primary objectives: expanding readers’ knowledge and nurturing an intelligent readership. His media philosophy continues to be practised in America to this day, he said.
He said the phrase “Make Your Child a Classroom Hero” from the Wall Street Journal, used as a subscription pitch, was introduced to Sri Lankan journalism by Edmond Ranasinghe three decades ago. It’s worth noting that many of the prominent figures in today’s media industry were mentored under his influence.”
The event was compered by the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute Senior Journalist Saman Athaudahetti. Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Minister of Mass Media Dr. Bandula Gunawardena, State Minister of Mass Media Shantha Bandara, Member of Parliament Premanath C. Dolawatta, President’s Senior Adviser on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, President’s Senior Adviser on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardena, President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake, Secretary of the Ministry of Mass Media Anusha Palpita, Government Information Director General Dinith Chinthaka Karunaratne and senior journalists were also present.
