FILMS, ARTS, MUSIC CAN PLAY VITAL ROLE
In a country where the first Tamil movie was made by a Sinhalese, the first Sinhala silent era movie produced by a Muslim, the first Sinhala talkie produced by a Tamil, the first Sinhala screen queen a nonsinhalese and the first Buddhist-themed film directed by a Catholic - the Sri Lankan movie industry has been one of the best models when it comes to promoting and fostering the culture of co-existence. As the world marked International Day of Peace recently, many insist that today’s filmmakers should also shoulder the responsibility of fostering peace, unity, harmony and friendship among people belonging to all ethnic groups and religions. In a country ridden with conflict for more than 30 years, one may find thousands of themes or plots to make good, positive and gripping films, but sadly only a few filmmakers have made use of such situations in a constructive manner. Movies like ‘Saroja’ directed by Somaratne Dissanayake, Sarungale by Sunil Ariyaratne and a few other movies touched upon themes that promote co-existence while some other films that were based on the conflict were mere portrayals of violence and war than peace. A special award could also be allotted annually for the best film promoting peace. Ironically there is an award for the best fighter (Stuntman) but not for promoters of peace. Such a platform will create opportunities for filmmakers and industry personnel of different cultures and religions to meet and share their ideas. Today there are even film festivals in the world that are dedicated to promoting peace among religions. Let’s earnestly hope that the Sinhala cinema strives to create a cine culture of peace where the Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims and Burghers could all work together like in the past when they were able to share the kiribath, thosai and biriyani leaving no room for intolerance. The media that includes arts, films, music photography, print, electronic and others also have a vital role to play in enlightening audiences and help them to think of the possibility of reconciliation. The responsibility, in fact lies in every individual who has a moral duty in ensuring a better world for our future generations. The government can also get vibrantly involved in this task, by obtaining the services of knowledgeable, credible and dedicated officers, by using its good offices to help people understand each others’ languages, cultures and lifestyles that will eventually help the reconciliation process. It can even start from Montessori stage because it might be difficult to change the already corrupt and brain-washed mindsets of some individuals belonging to all segments. Filmmakers and music world personalities, writers can be encouraged to make pieces of art and documentaries on such themes. Television channels can allocate air time for
The responsibility, lies in every individual who has a moral duty in ensuring a better world for today's kids
documentaries that help build peace instead of dishing out cheap stuff. All politicians and political parties can also help such moves of national interest. They must stop acting selfishly and think in terms national interest and not short term agendas which might drag the country into further turmoil. Peace is possible if only we join hands to make it happen. Unlike violence and war, peace is generally soundless. So, at this crucial juncture, it is time now that the country and world hear and see the cry for peace. As humans, we should seriously rely on peace, love and unity if we are to change the direction we’re heading.