The Department of Visual Communication, S.A. College of Arts & Science, organized an International Film Festival titled “Frames of Legacy”, a retrospective on the works of the renowned Sri Lankan filmmaker, Thiru. Prasanna Vithanage. The two-day festival, held on 24th and 25th March 2025, took place at the SACAS Theatre from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This initiative was led by Mr. R.D. Balaji, who played a crucial role in bringing this significant event to life.
DAY 1 – 24th March 2025
The Program commenced at 9:00 AM with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing enlightenment and knowledge. Mr. R.D. Balaji extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest and the audience. His speech highlighted the significance of cinema in storytelling and Prasanna Vithanage’s contribution to world cinema, particularly in addressing socio-political issues through his films.
Film Screening 1: “With You, Without You” (2012)
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
This poignant film explores themes of love, guilt, and redemption in post-war Sri Lanka. It tells the story of a Tamil woman and a Sinhalese man, portraying the complexities of ethnic tensions and human relationships. After the screening, an interactive Q&A session took place with the Chief Guest, where students eagerly asked questions about the film’s themes, character development, and cinematography.
Film Screening 2: “Gaadi” (2019)
Duration: 1 hour 43 minutes
“Gaadi” narrates a powerful tale of identity, oppression, and resistance set in 1814 Sri Lanka. The film follows a Kandyan aristocratic woman who is forced into an oppressed caste, highlighting themes of class struggle and social discrimination.

Following the screening, another interactive discussion was held. Students engaged in a thoughtful conversation with the guest, raising questions about historical accuracy, cinematic techniques, and the challenges of portraying sensitive topics on screen.
DAY 2 – 25th March 2025
Film Screening 3: “Paradise” (2023)
Duration: 1 hour 33 minutes
“Paradise” delves into contemporary issues of privilege, migration, and self-discovery. The film follows a couple on vacation in Sri Lanka, whose experiences unravel hidden tensions and uncomfortable truths about their relationship and the society around them. Podcast Interactive Session with Thiru. Prasanna Vithanage: A major highlight of the festival was the exclusive podcast-style conversation with Prasanna
Vithanage himself. He shared insights into his filmmaking journey, the inspiration behind his works, and the social issues he seeks to address through cinema. This session provided a rare opportunity for students to directly engage with the filmmaker, gaining valuable knowledge about the creative and technical aspects of filmmaking. Valedictory Function The festival concluded with a Valedictory Function, where Mr. R.D. Balaji delivered a closing speech, appreciating the students’ enthusiasm and Prasanna Vithanage’s contribution to cinema. Certificates of participation were distributed, and the event ended on a high note, leaving the audience inspired by the power of cinema in storytelling and social change.
Conclusion
The International Film Festival – Frames of Legacy was a resounding success, offering students a unique opportunity to explore global cinema and engage with an acclaimed filmmaker. The interactive discussions and screenings deepened their understanding of visual storytelling, history, and social narratives in film. The event not only celebrated the legacy of Thiru. Prasanna Vithanage but also reinforced the importance of meaningful cinema in shaping perspectives and sparking conversations.