The funeral rites of veteran journalist and media personality Kala Keerthi Edwin Ariyadasa will be held today (25) at the Borella Cemetery.
Due to the prevailing COVID-19 situation, the funeral will be conducted in keeping with the health guidelines under close supervision of health authorities.The final rites will be held from 3.30pm to 5pm. His remains lie at the ‘Restpect Hall’ Jayaratne funeral parlour till 3.30pm today for the public to pay their last respects.
Kala Keerthi Edwin Ariyadasa passed away last Friday at the age of 98.
Born on December 3, 1922, in Unawatuna, Galle, Ariyadasa is an alumnus of Mahinda College and the University of Ceylon where he obtained a degree in Sinhala and English languages.
Teaching was his first profession, after which he entered the insurance field.
He found his true calling in journalism, having joined the Lake House in 1949. He had worked with Lake House founder D.R. Wijewardene, who passed away in 1950.
Ariyadasa worked for most of the newspapers published by Lake House, including the Daily News. He held the post of Editor, Navayugaya, for some time. Later, he was instrumental in establishing Mass Communication and Media courses at local universities.
He was also a renowned writer on Buddhism and current topics and he contributed to newspapers and magazines.
He has authored several books in Sinhala and English.