Kannan Arunasalam

Coming soon: new feature documentary ‘Republic of Amnesia’


Republic of Amnesia follows the rise and fall of Sri Lanka’s Aragalaya (‘The Struggle’)—the non-violent protest movement that forced authoritarian president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country in 2022. At its heart are Melani, Buwanaka, Jeana, and Chamara, young activists who lead marches, face arrest, and fight for a more inclusive future. As they challenge a corrupt political dynasty and a system built to resist change, can their struggle reshape Sri Lanka — or will the forces of repression prevail?

REPUBLIC OF AMNESIA (83 mins, United Kingdom 2025)

Directed by Kannan Arunasalam

Produced by Kannan Arunasalam, Hiran Balasuriya, Retold World,  International Centre for Ethnic Studies