Sri Lankan Ornamental Fish Veteran Anand Malavi Pathirana Awarded British Knighthood

Anand Malavi Pathirana, a veteran in Sri Lanka’s ornamental fish industry, has been conferred a British knighthood in recognition of his long-standing professional and social contributions spanning nearly six decades.

The honor was presented at the International Graduation Ceremony 2026, organized by the UK-based Knights of British Empire (KBE – Knights of Hope), held on September 12 at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo.

Pathirana, the Co-Founder and Chairman of Aquamarine International, has been a pivotal figure in expanding Sri Lanka’s ornamental fish sector across Asian and European markets. Beyond commercial success, his efforts encompass aquatic life breeding, research, and conservation, earning him the Presidential Award for 14 consecutive years. His contributions to aquatic biodiversity are notably recognized by two fish species named after him: Danio pathirana and Puntius pathirana.

In addition to his exporter role, Pathirana’s underwater explorations as a long-time diver led to the recovery of several historically significant artifacts, which he handed over to Sri Lanka’s Department of Archaeology. Furthermore, the World Environmental Olympic Committee (WEOC) recently appointed him as an International Honorary Ambassador for his environmental and export-sector contributions.

Throughout his career—which also includes serving as a Director for an international human rights organization—Pathirana has been supported by his wife, Princi Pathirana, whose vital role in his journey has been recognized internationally. The British knighthood marks another major milestone in Pathirana’s extensive service to trade, archaeology, and marine conservation.