An internationally recognised designer of Sri Lankan batiks and handicrafts, Buddhi Keerthisena has contributed immensely to batik development as a policymaker and a businessman. The former Chairman of National Craft Council of Sri Lanka -- the main state organisation serving the needs of the craftsmen and developing the industry on a sustainable basis - was acknowledged for having developed the concept of craft villages where the facilities and raw materials were provided in one location for the production and sale of handicrafts, close to popular tourist attractions.

In 1970, Buddhi made his debut as a batik artist. For more than three decades, he has made a mark as an artist, creative designer, entrepreneur and international marketer. He has held more than 100 batik exhibitions in European and Asian cities and Seychelles.

He has served as a special consultant to the Ministry of Rural Industries on handicrafts development, a member of the Sri Lanka Tourist Board and the Sri Lanka Design Centre, a director of the State Mortgage Bank and a government media consultant. He won the Presidential Award for the Best Producer 2005.