Rajapaksa Pays Tribute to Malini Fonseka
Malini Fonseka's passing has left a void in the Sri Lankan film industry, but her body of work and the memories she created will continue to inspire and entertain audiences. Her state funeral will be a fitting tribute to her remarkable life and career, and a celebration of her achievements as a actress, parliamentarian, and cultural icon.
Former Presidents Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Mahinda Rajapaksa paid their last respects to late actress Malini Fonseka at the Tharangani Hall of the Sri Lanka Film Corporation, as the nation mourns the loss of the renowned Sri Lankan actress who passed away at the age of 78.
Malini Fonseka, born on April 30, 1947, began her acting career in a stage play titled 'Noratha Ratha' while still schooling, and her breakthrough came in 1968 with the film 'Punchi Baba'. She went on to act in over 150 films, directed and produced some, and also acted in television dramas, winning numerous awards, including more than 13 Best Actress awards.
Veteran actors and actresses, including Ravindra Randeniya, Anoja Weerasinghe, Wasanthi Chathurani, and Kamal Addararachchi, paid tribute to Malini, describing her as a "queen" and a "legendary figure" who left an unmatched legacy. They recalled her kindness, humility, and generosity, and praised her incredible performances in films such as 'Nidhanaya', 'Siripala Saha Ranmenika', and 'Akasa Kusum'.
Malini Fonseka was also a Member of Parliament representing President Mahinda Rajapaksa's alliance from 2010 to 2015 and remained a staunch supporter of Rajapaksa. Her final rites will be held with state honors on May 26, 2025, at the Independence Square in Colombo.
The nation will remember Malini Fonseka as a legendary figure in the Sri Lankan film industry, and her contributions to the world of cinema will be cherished for generations to come. The outpouring of tributes from the film fraternity and political leaders is a testament to her enduring legacy and the impact she had on the lives of those who knew her and admired her work.