Colombo, Sep. 3 (Daily Mirror) - Veteran artist and film technician Givantha Arthasad, who created Sri Lanka’s first animated cartoon film, has passed away at the age of 73.
Arthasad died while receiving treatment at the Panadura Base Hospital.
The brother of veteran film director Dinesh Priyasad, Arthasad is regarded as a pioneer in animation and special effects in Sri Lankan cinema and television.
He created ‘Dutugemunu’, considered Sri Lanka’s first animated cartoon film, which was released in 1979.
Throughout his career, Arthasad demonstrated his talents in several areas of filmmaking, including painting, cinematography, make-up, art direction and film editing.
He also authored Cinema - Maya, an important work on cinema technology and language.
Arthasad briefly served as the Director General of the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation.
His contribution to animation, special effects and film technology is considered an important chapter in the development of Sri Lankan cinema and television.
Nimal Tissa Thursday, 03 September 2026 11:10 AM
Rest in peace my dear friend, may God bless your soul
Rufus Thursday, 03 September 2026 12:59 PM
I knew him from his school days at Methodist School in Moratuwa. A very noble and artistically skilled person who pioneered Cartoon films, which he created by drawing by hand at 22 shots per second. May his soul rest in peace - I would say normally; in this instance, he is resting in peace now for sure.
Horlix Thursday, 03 September 2026 01:43 PM
Have seen him along with Asterix and Obelix. He was called Getafix then. RIP!
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