The inaugural edition of SAARC Film Days 2025 was held on 29th May 2025 at the Kularathna Auditorium of Ananda College, Colombo. The featured screening for the event was “Ankhi O Tar Bondhura” (Akhi and Her Friends) from the Member State of Bangladesh, a critically acclaimed children’s film directed by Morshedul Islam. The event drew an enthusiastic audience, with over 900 schoolchildren in attendance, filling the auditorium to capacity. The occasion was graced by the presence of His Excellency the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Sri Lanka Mr. Andalib Elias as the Chief Guest, His Excellency the Ambassador of Nepal Mr. Purna Bahadur Nepali as the Guests of Honour and Principal of Ananda College, Colombo, Mr. D.M. Lal Dissanayake. Other dignitaries in attendance included the Director, Iran Cultural Centre, Dr. B. Moazami Goodarzi, Ms. Ruvini De Silva, Deputy-Director, SAARC Division, MOFA, Ms. Sajeeda Rasheed, Assistant-Director, South Asia and SAARC Division, MOFA
The programme commenced with a welcome address delivered by the Director of the SAARC Cultural Centre, Dr. Kaushalya Kumarasinghe, followed by the keynote speech by the Chief Guest, His Excellency. A curated Q & A session, led by the Resource Person Mr. Vidarshana Kannagara, engaging students in thoughtful discussions around South Asian culture and the themes portrayed in the film. The session aimed to foster cultural awareness and critical thinking among the children.
Vote of Thanks was delivered by the Deputy Director for Programmes, SAARC Cultural Centre, Prof. Sikder Zulkernine.
