Everyone has a story to tell, claims author Ajita Kadirgamar. Never has this proved to be truer than in her attempt, 40 years later, to unearth and preserve memories of the first generation of television pioneers in Sri Lanka.
This book focuses on the first 20 years-the golden years-of the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation, which witnessed not only astonishing levels of creativity and growth, but also a civil war and an insurgency, both of which gravely impacted the blossoming television industry.
During the research phase, the writer herself discovered just how deeply entwined SLRC’s history was with SLBC and ITN, from where the bulk of the original staff came. She has endeavored to delve into aspects of SLRCs history rarely acknowledged before, giving due credit to the Japanese, Americans, Canadians and Germans for their critical rolle in the construction, set up, and training phases.
Within these pages are SLRC team members’ personal recollections of the adventures, tragedies, trials and tribulations, narrow escapes, achievements, humorous moments, and the many instances of going the extra mile during those key formative years, all recounted in the voices of the pioneers themselves
Gehan Samaranayake –
“I just finished reading Ajita’s book and I’m struggling with words to describe the effort Ajita has put into same for it to be a comprehensive compilation of events, facts and memorable to tearful stories. The book duly honors all the pioneering officers whose contributions, commitments and sacrifices are fast fading with time. My heartfelt gratitude to Ajita for completing this project singlehandedly through the hard times we passed, facing many challenges. It is truly a publication to own.”
Gehan Samaranayake
Jagath Alahakoon (verified owner) –
Dear Aajita,
I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for your remarkable book. The effort you’ve poured into crafting such a valuable resource is truly commendable.
The way you’ve meticulously divided the book into chapters, ensuring each one is packed with relevant facts, makes the information incredibly accessible and user-friendly. It’s clear you’ve dedicated a tremendous amount of time and care to piecing together this history that was so close to being lost.
Your work goes beyond simply writing a book; it’s an act of preservation and restoration. Thanks to you, a significant piece of the past is being brought back to life.
Thank you once again for your invaluable contribution.
Sincerely
Jagath Alahakoon
Daya Weerasinghe (verified owner) –
“I just finished reading. It must have been a herculean effort to collect the heap of information and make it a readable book. It was easy reading and enjoyed especially the experience of founding generation. You have unearthed some of the initial information on setting up SLRC which is great. This will be the only document with all such information. It will serve as an archival material for media researchers. Thank you very much and appreciate all the hard work put in to make it a success.”
Daya Weerasinghe
Sports Producer
Anura Weerasinghe –
Though not fully read yet, I have already realized the value of Ajita’s book .
You have stepped into reveal a history which was much needed & long overdue .
It surely must have been a hard & painstaking job from the information gathering stage upto the publishing . You should be highly commended / much appreciated for the effort put into this very well compiled great work of historical importance.
Congratulations for a job welldone !!!