Kalabushana awards were presented to 301 Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim artistes beyond the age of 60 who have rendered an inestimable  service for the art of literature of Sri Lanka with their new creations.

206 Sinhala artistes, 70 Tamil artistes and 25 Muslim artistes were selected for Kalabushana awards, covering the whole island. From among  the Sinhala artistes 59 dancing artistes, 27 from drama and performing arts, 58 from literature, 14 from art and sculpture and 10 from the field of music were selected. 17 artistes above  the age of 80 years have been selected this time to award Kalabushana. 40 Sinhala artists from the district of Colombo and 28 Tamil artistes from the district of Jaffna  were selected. All others represent almost all the districts.

The Department of Cultural Affairs has taken steps to present  awards, certificates and cash prizes. The selection was made by an independent panel of Judges with the assistance of the Department of Cultural Affairs, Department of  Hindu Religious Affairs and the Department of Muslim Religious Affairs .