Artistes seek government relief amidst COVID-19

COLOMBO (News1st): Artistes have complained that they have been badly affected across all fronts including financially, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "...there are several singers, actors, and artists who are bedridden without any help," Ananda Athukorala, an actor said during a media briefing on Sunday. The news conference had been convened by the All Ceylon Artists Association. "I think the government and the responsible authorities in this field should help these artists in these difficult times," Athukorala urged. Mangala Madugalle, a film director, pointed out that artistes do not have a proper salary or any form of insurance. "We are helpless today because of COVID-19," Madugalle noted.