A brother, friend and comrade

Anil Tittawella’s sudden passing away left a gaping vacuum in the field of law. As a brother, friend and mentor; this is our joint tribute to Anil.

Anil’s practice was not just confined to Sri Lanka; he conducted many arbitrations internationally, as well as dealt with several cross-border transactions. That is how I first met Anil, when he came to Pakistan over 30 years ago. 

Anil’s successful study and understanding of international disputes was lucid and shrewd. His research demonstrated in-depth knowledge, as well as profound comprehension and understanding of the area of the law that he dealt with. His position on the Boards of several companies is a testament to his legal, corporate and regulatory expertise. 

There will be many individuals Anil touched throughout his life; simply by virtue of being himself. In his friendship, Anil was wholeheartedly loving. We consider ourselves greatly blessed to have known him. Having taken Zara, my daughter, under his wings as a mentor and teacher in Sri Lanka, his guidance was unparalleled. 

Friends are the family we choose. Our friendship of over 30 years will indeed now transcend into cherished memories. The best way to describe Anil is that he was a star in all respects. You don’t always see them but you know that they are always there. May you be blessed in the next life my friend, as I was in this one by knowing you. 

– Mehmood Mandviwalla is a Barrister-at-Law based in Pakistan.

A teacher and mentor 

It has been one of the greatest privileges to have borne witness to Mr. Tittawella’s generosity of spirit. Upon the beginning of my legal journey in Sri Lanka, he held a guiding hand out to me as a mentor; catapulting not only my professional growth but personal as well. His willingness to openly offer information and impart knowledge is something I will always be grateful for. 

His realism and wit made him one of the greatest legal minds in Sri Lanka, thus making an immeasurable impact to numerous lawyers who had the pleasure to work with him. Mr. Tittawella was a master in the use of words, insisting always upon the precision of language. His unique style of presenting arguments, whether the subject be law, politics, or other current affairs, was always done so in a vivid and colourful manner, with his occasional use of Latin making them most compelling. He was a firm believer that the law should evolve on a case-by-case basis; not holistically, but cumulatively. Unquestionably, for any lawyer to be in his company, and to share conversation with him was a delightful experience. 

Thank you for the invaluable lessons, Sir, which we will endeavour to carry with us in our lives. Your legacies and contributions to the field law will live forever. 

– Zara Mandviwalla Akbarally is Barrister-at-Law based in Sri Lanka.