Veteran journalist and media personality Kala Keerthi Edwin Ariyadasa has passed away at age of 99.
Born on December 3, 1922, in Unawatuna, Galle, Ariyadasa is an alumnus of Mahinda College and the University of Ceylon where he obtained a degree in Sinhala and English languages. Teaching was his first profession, after which he entered the insurance field.
He found his true calling in journalism, having joined the Lake House in 1949. He is the only living journalist who has worked with Lake House founder D.R. Wijewardene, who passed away in 1950.
Ariyadasa worked for most of the newspapers published by Lake House, including the Daily News. He held the post of Editor, Navayugaya, for some time. Later, he was instrumental in establishing Mass Communication and Media courses at local universities. He is also a renowned writer on Buddhism and current topics and he continues to contribute to newspapers and magazines. He has authored several books in Sinhala and English.