Nations Trust Bank Private Banking Celebrates Sri Lankan Artistry with Kala Pola 2025 Painting Giveaway

Standing from left to right: Nations Trust Bank AVP – Private Banking Proposition Clifford Fernando, the winner of the giveaway, Varun Wijewardane, artist Rohan Vidanapathirana and CEO of Nations Trust Bank Hemantha Gunetilleke.

Nations Trust Bank Private Banking through the Kala Pola 2025 Painting Giveaway, organized by the John Keells Foundation, reinforced its dedication to Sri Lanka’s thriving art scene and strengthened its position as the event’s Official Banking Partner. This program demonstrates Nations Trust Bank’s commitment to fostering local artistic talent and introducing the nation’s creative heritage to high-net-worth individuals.

Varun Wijewardane, the giveaway winner, received an original artwork from famed Sri Lankan artist Rohan Vidanapathirana from Nations Trust Bank Private Banking at this year’s Kala Pola celebration. A transparent digital spinning wheel method was used to choose the winner, guaranteeing participation and fairness among participants.

Speaking on the occasion, Hemantha Gunetilleke, Chief Executive Officer of Nations Trust Bank, stated, “At Nations Trust Bank, we believe that art can inspire and uplift communities and change lives. Our longstanding dedication to Sri Lanka’s creative sector is demonstrated by our collaboration with Kala Pola. We are proud to give gifted artists like Rohan Vidanapathirana a stage on which to showcase their work and establish connections with art lovers, especially our prestigious Private Banking clientele.”

This year’s giveaway’s featured artist, Rohan Vidanapathirana, has left a lasting impression on Sri Lanka’s artistic scene. His creative trajectory has been one of passion and perseverance despite his hearing impairment. Under the guidance of Dr. H. A. Karunaratne, Rohan refined his skills at Heywood College after finishing his studies at the School for the Deaf in Rathmalana. Rohan has been in the advertising business for more than 36 years. He has received numerous honors, such as the Gold SLIM Award from Thomas Cook Lanka in 1990 and two Silver SLIM Awards from Ceylinco in 1997 and 2006 at Phoenix O. His creative ability is still acknowledged on a national and international level.

Sheahan Daniel, Executive Vice President – Consumer Banking at Nations Trust Bank, emphasized the bank’s role as a patron of the arts. “Our dedication to Sri Lankan artistry goes beyond sponsorships; we actively support and honor artistic ability. Our commitment to the arts is reflected in the Kala Pola Painting Giveaway, and many people find inspiration in Rohan Vidanapathirana’s journey. We offer our Private Banking clients significant cultural interactions through this program that transcend conventional banking.”

Giveaway recipient Varun Wijewardane expressed his gratitude, stating, “It is an amazing privilege to get this piece of art. It symbolizes the depth of Sri Lankan creativity and the commitment of artists such as Rohan Vidanapathirana. I sincerely value Nations Trust Bank’s contribution to fostering and identifying such potential.”

As part of its ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between art and finance, Nations Trust Bank Private Banking continues to support Kala Pola and other cultural initiatives. Nations Trust Bank enhances its standing as a devoted benefactor of Sri Lanka’s artistic legacy by supporting local talent and offering its clients unique experiences.