A. D. Ranjith Kumara
In an era when movie credit generators driven by software tools and Artificial Intelligence (AI) were science fiction, a young man named A.D. Ranjith Kumara dedicated himself to crafting the movie credits for Sinhala cinema.
This pioneer left an indelible mark, having created title credits for over 200 local films. Kumara’s passion for cinema didn’t stop there; he transitioned into cinema journalism, eventually becoming the editor of Lake House’s renowned Sinhala cinema periodical, Sarasaviya.
Kumara’s illustrious career spanned various domains of the Sri Lankan arts scene. He was celebrated for designing captivating book covers for esteemed authors such as Martin Wickremesinghe, K. Jayathilaka, and Somaweera Senanayaka. Among his notable works were covers for Wickremesinghe’s Madol Duwa and Bawa Tharanaya, Jayathilaka’s Eka Gei Avurudda, and Senanayaka’s Yashorawaya and Menik Nadiya Gala Basee.
As an accomplished author, Kumara penned several significant books on cinema, including Rukmani Devi Yugayaka Swarna Deepaya, Gamini Hela Cinema Sakwithi, Rekhawa after 50th Year, Kosgashandiya, and Nova Paraniya Lipi Seraniya. His expertise also extended to film production coordination, notably collaborating with Prof. Sunil Ariyaratne on various projects.
Kumara’s contributions to the arts were widely recognied. He received numerous accolades for his literary and artistic achievements, including the Cine Star Silver Screen Award, S. Godage Senior Writer’s Golden Award, Ranapala Bodinagoda Literary Award, Cyril C. Perera Literary Award, OCIC Award, and the Sumathipala Memorial Award.
Beyond his creative endeavours, Kumara played a pivotal role in event organisation, serving as the chief organiser for the Sarasaviya Film Festival and the Sumathi Tele Awards.
A.D. Ranjith Kumara passed away two weeks ago on a Friday, at the age of 77, leaving a legacy rich in cultural contributions. He is survived by his wife, popular songstress Damayanthi Jayasuriya, and his son Dr. Nuwan Nayanajith Kumara, who now continues his father’s work as the editor of Sarasaviya. In keeping with his wishes, Kumara’s remains were donated to the Kothalawala Defence Faculty’s Medical Faculty.
He will be remembered for his invaluable contributions to the nation’s cultural landscape.
