Famous Sri Lankan Film & Theater Personalities

Sukumari was an Indian actress known for her contribution to Tamil and Malayalam films. One of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation, Sukumari acted in over 2,500 films in a career that spanned over 50 years. In 2003, she was honored with the Padma Shri. In 2011, she won the National Film Award for her performance in Namma Gramam. 

Ranjan Ramanayake is a Sri Lankan former politician, film director, actor, script writer, and singer. He achieved immense popularity during the 1990s, when he appeared in many Sinhala language films. One of the most popular and celebrated Sri Lankan actors of his generation, Ranjan Ramanayake has won numerous awards, including nine Sarasaviya Awards.

Vijaya Kumaratunga was a Sri Lankan actor, politician, and playback singer. He is often counted among the most prominent icons of Sri Lankan cinema. Vijaya Kumaratunga was also an important politician and is credited with founding the Sri Lanka Mahajana Party. From 1978 until his murder in 1988, Vijaya Kumaratunga was married to former President Chandrika Kumaranatunga.

Malini Fonseka is a Sri Lankan actress who achieved national prominence in 1969, when she received the Best Actress Award at the National State Drama Festival. Referred to as the Queen of Sinhalese cinema, Malini Fonseka also contributed immensely to Sri Lankan theatre and television. She is the recipient of numerous awards, including 11 Sarasaviya Awards.

Anarkali Akarsha is a Sri Lankan actress, model, TV host, singer, and politician. She achieved popularity in 2004, when she was crowned Miss Sri Lanka. In addition to appearing in films and teledramas, Anarkali Akarsha has also worked as a fundraiser and brand ambassador.

Gamini Fonseka was a Sri Lankan actor, politician, and film director. He achieved popularity during the 1960s and 1970s and is often counted among the greatest actor in the history of Sinhala cinema. He was the recipient of numerous awards, including 14 Sarasaviya Awards. Also a prominent politician, Fonseka was the Governor of North Eastern Province from 1995 to 1998.

Upeksha Swarnamali is a Sri Lankan actress and politician. She is best known for her performance in a TV series titled Paba. A former member of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, Upeksha Swarnamali also served as the Monitoring Minister of Foreign Employment Promotion after being appointed by President Mahinda Rajapaksa.