2 April 2016 12:00 am
Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media Deputy Minister, Karunaratna Paranavithana who visited the exhibition said the photos of vintage vehicles captured by photojournalist Bandula Alahakoon provide a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s past.
Bandula Alahakoon is a professional with more than forty years of expertise in the field of photography. He completed his primary education at the Parakrambahu Maha Vidyalaya and obtained a Degree in Mass Communication from the University of Sri Jayawardenapura.
The exhibition showcased an exceptional photographic collection of vintage vehicles taken during the past twenty five years of his career. The first picture taken by Mr. Alahakoon appeared in the “Divaina” Newspaper in 1983, opening a new avenue in photography for him.
Possessing a natural flair and skill with a camera lense, Mr. Alahakoon has captured a certain timeless beauty in his photographs. In 1982, he received an opportunity to work as a photographer in the National Housing Development Authority. Thereafter, he was involved in several fields relating to photography; reaching new heights as a dexterous photographer.
He received an opportunity to work as a Lake House Special Correspondent in Borella in 1985, while gaining professional experience for a period of eighteen years in the field.
He was also fortunate to serve as the official photographer of Mr. Edward Mason, the creator of the weekend Observer’s “Motor Mag” supplement.
These experiences gave him the opportunity to capture some outstanding vintage and classic vehicles.
Almost two hundred photographs of vintage vehicles were showcased at the exhibition, in addition to a display of some vintage cars and motorbikes at the exhibition premises.
The main sponsor of the event was “PickMe” in collaboration with LOLC and People’s Bank. The vintage vehicles displayed at the premises were sponsored by the Vintage Car Owners’ Club.
Mr. Alahakoon currently works as the official photographer to the Minister of Mass Media while continuing to work as the Lake House Special Correspondent for Borella.