Justice in Flames by Anomaa Rajakaruna

The International Centre for Ethnic Studies (ICES) will host a screening of the documentary Justice in Flames, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Anomaa Rajakaruna, on May 9th, 2025, at 4:00 PM at ICES, No. 2, Kynsey Terrace, Colombo 08. The screening commemorates the third anniversary of the violent attacks carried out by government-affiliated groups on peaceful protestors at Galle Face Green during the 2022 Aragalaya movement.

Justice in Flames tells the story of visual artist Sujith Rathnayake, who used his art as a form of protest at the heart of the Aragalaya. From a makeshift studio set up at the main protest site, Sujith invited fellow citizens to express their dissent through painting. On the 9th of May 2022, Sujith’s studio was one of the first spaces destroyed when armed groups linked to the state attacked and looted the protest site. Yet, undeterred, he and his supporters quickly re-established the studio.

The documentary also captures Sujith’s later exhibition, Arbudhaya saha Aragalaya ("Crisis and Struggle"), which showcased his powerful artworks reflecting the injustices endured by Sri Lankans. Through Sujith’s story, the film pays tribute to the broader protest movement and its call for justice, accountability, and reform.

Justice in Flames is the second part of a film trilogy by Rajakaruna. It follows Cross of Justice, which documented a performance art piece by actor Jehan Appuhamy who led a symbolic walk for justice, demanding answers for the unaddressed investigations into the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.

This screening offers a space to remember, reflect, and engage in dialogue on the ongoing struggle for justice and democratic rights in Sri Lanka. The event is open to the public.

About the Filmmaker:

Anomaa Rajakaruna is a Sri Lankan filmmaker, photographer, and film festival curator whose work often explores themes of social justice, human rights, gender, and conflict. With a background in documentary and experimental filmmaking, she has screened her work across the globe and is known for giving voice to marginalised and underrepresented communities. Please click here to register