Among the distinguished guests were ambassadors from over 20 countries, cultural figures, and community leaders.
Opening remarks were delivered by Russian Ambassador His Excellency Levan Dzhagaryan, Sri Lankan Minister of Culture Hon Prof. Sunil Senevi, Director of the Russian House Maria Popova, and Festival Producer Elena Lebedeva.
A special video message from Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian MFA, emphasized the symbolic revival of Russian–Sri Lankan cultural ties and the power of art to unite nations.
The festival began with the screening of “The Commander” by director Timur Khvan; a film about the legendary Hero of the Soviet Union Gennady Zaitsev, one of the founders of the “Alpha” counterterrorism unit. The lead role was played by Kirill Zaitsev, a laureate of the Golden Eagle award.
The evening drew historical parallels with 1963, when the Soviet film delegation, including Andrei Tarkovsky with his debut “Ivan’s Childhood”, visited Ceylon. The “Week of Soviet Cinema” back then became a revelation for local audiences and this year’s festival proudly continues that tradition.
The evening concluded with a creative talk by Kirill Zaitsev, who shared behind-the-scenes stories from “The Commander” and performed a heartfelt rendition of the song from the cult film “Officers”, earning a standing ovation from the audience.
The festival opening became a major cultural highlight in Colombo’s life with the artistic excellence, atmosphere of friendship and the hope for deeper cultural cooperation with Russia.
