The Rex Harrison classic was the first to introduce the character to the world. While this version is older, its Sinhala dubbed version was broadcast on Rupavahini and ITN during the 1980s and 90s. The dubbing work for this film was theatrical and poetic, matching the musical nature of the original. Sinhala voice actors had to sing translated versions of "Talk to the Animals." This is considered a lost gem of , with many senior citizens still humming the translated tunes.
Today, finding the original Sinhala-dubbed Dr. Dolittle is a challenge. Most TV stations have lost the master tapes, or the rights have expired. The version that occasionally airs is often a re-dub with new, less talented actors. dr dolittle sinhala dubbed work