Tharindu Dilshan Sendanayake has made history by becoming the first Sri Lankan to win the prestigious “Sanctuary Asia Wildlife Photographer of the Year” award. This monumental achievement marks a significant milestone for Sri Lanka’s wildlife photography community on the international stage.
The awards ceremony, held in Mumbai, India, is part of the renowned Sanctuary Asia Wildlife Conservation Initiative, which has been fostering awareness and appreciation for wildlife conservation since its inception in 1981 by the celebrated conservationist Bittu Sahgal. The initiative is recognized as a cornerstone for wildlife photography and conservation efforts across Asia, drawing participation from some of the most talented photographers in the region.
The Sanctuary Asia Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards are among the most competitive in the field, attracting thousands of submissions from accomplished photographers worldwide. For many years, Sri Lankan photographers have earned recognition under various categories, but none had managed to secure the top honor until now.
Tharindu Dilshan Sendanayake’s victory is not just a personal milestone but a source of pride for the Sri Lankan wildlife photography industry. His remarkable achievement highlights the growing talent and global presence of Sri Lanka’s photographers in the realm of conservation and storytelling through imagery.
