The festival, held from November 6 to 13, brought together directors and producers from nearly 100 countries, making the achievement a significant milestone for Sri Lankan cinema.
Along with the award, Ratnayake received a cash prize of 2.1 million Indian rupees, equivalent to approximately 75 million Sri Lankan rupees.
“Riverstone” has already garnered international attention, having previously won an award at a film festival in Shanghai, China. The film is scheduled to be screened at several upcoming film festivals around the world.
Producer Prahat Roshan arrived from Bangalore on Indigo Airlines flight 6E-1183 at 7.40 p.m. on November 15. He was welcomed at the Katunayake Airport by co-producer Nimanthi Porage, Sri Lanka National Film Corporation General Manager Ruwan Premaweera, and several senior officials.
