Entertainment

SC gives landmark judgment on work of Chef Publis Silva

Published

2 years ago

June 14, 2023

editor

The Supreme Court recently gave a historical judgment with regard to the ownership of the copyright of a work of renowned Chef Publis Silva, which is relevant to authors, publishers and all other connected parties in the respective field.

Defendant Appelant in the case Sarasavi Publishers (Pvt) Ltd. Nugegoda made an appeal to the supreme court against a judgment delivered by the Commercial High Court in 2013, with regard to the owner of the copyright of the Sinhala book titled ‘Galkissa hotalaye Publis Silvage hela ratawata iwum pihum,’ a culinary skill book by Chef Publis Silva.

A three-judge bench of the Supreme Court comprised of Murdu N. B. Fernando PC, J. P. Padman Surasena and A.H.M.D. Nawaz delivered the judgment in favour of the books’ author and publishers respectively Chef Publis Silva and Sarasavi Publishers (Pvt) Ltd.

The content of the book that mainly dealt with the Sri Lanka culinary methods, is a brainchild of the veteran Chef Publis Silva based on his culinary skills and experience as an internationally renowned chef.

As detailed by him following a series of interviews providing necessary information to the compiler, the book had been compiled by Ms. Dharma S. Samaranayake, a former editor of a Sinhala newspaper. For her services editorial/compilation fee has been paid to her by the Sarasavi Publishers at the request of the Chef. The book was first published in 2005.

The copyright of the book was fully possessed by Chef Publis Silva. As the owner of the book he has entered into an agreement with Sarasavi Publishers. Based on conditions of that agreement Sarasavi Publishers paid royalties to Chef Publis Silva.

In 2008 after several years of publishing of the book even after its sixth edition, the compiler Ms. Dharma S. Samaranayake filed a case at High Court against Sarasavi Publishers claiming that she is the author of the book and hence royalties must be paid to her by Sarasavi Publishers.

The High Court gave a judgment in favour of her and declared that Compiler Ms. Dharma Samaranayake has the copyright of the book and issued a permanent injunction to the publishers preventing the publisher from publishing, distributing, possessing and sale of the book. Further, the court gave a direction to the publisher to make a payment to the compiler under the provisions of Intellectual Property Act.

Against the decision of the High Court, Sarasavi Publishers made an appeal to the Supreme Court in 2013. After hearing the appeal, considering the evidence and submissions made by all parties and also examining the previous judgment given by the High Court, the three judge bench of the Supreme Court unanimously declared that the decision of the High court to declare the plaintiff/compiler – Ms. Dharma S. Samaranayake as the author, owner and copyright holder of the work is in error. They further stated that moreover, the relief granted to the plaintiff – Ms. Samaranayake is erroneous, ambiguous, imprecise and not in accordance with the law. Hence her request to enhance the damages for 12 prints was fully rejected by the Supreme Court.

Accordingly the three-judge bench gave a unanimous judgment to set aside the impugned judgment of the High Court and also to dismiss the plaint made by the compiler Ms. Dharma S. Samaranayake with costs fixed at Rs.25,000 payable by her to the Defendant-Appellant-Sarasavi Publishers, Nugegoda.

(dailymirror.lk)

(Except for the headline, this story, originally published by dailymirror.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

Entertainment

Crowds at Hingurakgoda musical show get rowdy!

Published

5 days ago

March 15, 2025

editor

Crowds who had attended a musical show in Hingurakgoda last night (March 14) has got rowdy, causing property damages to the stage and musical instruments.

The situation had gotten out of hand after two artistes who were supposed to attend the show, had failed to turn up. Tickets were sold at Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 2,500, reports add.

The situation had escalated despite around 45 policemen deployed at the venue for security.

Entertainment

Singer “Shan Putha” arrested

Published

6 days ago

March 14, 2025

editor

The popular rap singer known as “Shan Putha” was arrested this morning in possession of a gun.

According to the Homagama Headquarters Police, the arrest was made in the Araliya Uyana area of Meegoda, where the suspect was found with a 09mm gun.

Police also arrested a police constable attached to the Mannar Police Division, who is alleged to have supplied the gun, along with an individual identified as the suspect’s manager.

The Police states that during a search of the suspect’s residence, the gun was discovered in connection with a previous shooting incident reported in the Matara.

The suspects are expected to be produced before court following further interrogation.

Entertainment

Aloe Blacc visits Sri Lanka (Pics)

Published

1 week ago

March 10, 2025

editor

Internationally renowned singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur Aloe Blacc arrived in Sri Lanka this morning (March 10) at the invitation of the new government and the Sri Lanka Tourist Board, marking a significant visit that extends beyond music. While best known for his chart-topping hits like ‘I Need a Dollar’ and ‘Wake Me Up,’ Blacc’s trip underscores his growing influence in biotechnology, healthcare innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Professor Gomika Udugamasooriya, Senior Advisor to the President on Science and Technology extended a warm welcome to Aloe Blacc upon his arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).

Speaking at the BIA, Blacc emphasized that he is delighted to contribute to the story that conveys to the world that Sri Lanka is an attractive investment destination. He expressed that it is a remarkable opportunity to collaborate with the Sri Lankan government and the National Initiative for Research and Development Commercialization (NIRDC).

He also highlighted the unique chance to observe first-hand the numerous investments taking place in Sri Lanka, including both new and established enterprises, as well as the innovative concepts being developed. Blacc noted his connections with numerous investors in the United States and across the globe, to whom he plans to share the story of Sri Lanka’s potential.

During his two-day stay in Sri Lanka, Blacc is expected to engage with local entrepreneurs, artists, fostering collaborations that could benefit both the cultural and scientific communities. His itinerary includes discussions with senior officials of the Presidential Secretariat, as well as meetings with local entrepreneurs specializing in cashew products, coconut-based products, organic goods, natural energy drinks, and food and agriculture, with a focus on authentic Ceylon cinnamon. Additionally, Blacc will participate in discussions with biotechnology experts, investment forums, and interactive sessions with aspiring musicians and innovators. As part of his visit, he will also explore Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage with trips to Sigiriya and Minneriya.

Aloe Blacc seamlessly blends music, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Initially aspiring to be a scientist, he founded Major Inc. in 2022 after contracting COVID-19, focusing on biotechnology solutions to prevent pandemics. His company collaborates with top scientists to develop treatments blocking viral infections, inspired by his father, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Beyond biotech, Blacc invests in tech start-ups like Polygraf and Giroptic, showcasing his commitment to innovation.

In addition to his business ventures, Blacc continues to make an impact through music and philanthropy. His latest album, Stand Together (2025), promotes unity and resilience, while his humanitarian efforts include premiering ‘Shine’ Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity ceremony in April 2024 to honour individuals supported by the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, reinforcing his dedication to social impact through music.

Aloe Blacc’s visit to Sri Lanka not only celebrates his musical achievements but also showcases his dedication to innovation, science and social responsibility. His multifaceted career serves as a powerful example of how creativity and entrepreneurship can intersect to drive meaningful change on a global scale.

(President’s Media Division)