Gamini Fonseka

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Gamini Shelton Fonseka (1936-2004) was a film actor, then known as the king of Sinhalese cinema; born in Dehiwela, Sri Lanka on March 21st 1936 as the third child of William and Daisy Fonseka. Gamini began his career as a technician in the earlier films of celebrated director Lester James Peries. He first stated acting in the late 1950s. In career spanning more than half a century, Gamini acted, directed and produced several remarkable films and composed lyrics before turning to politics. His maiden performance was in the film "Daiva Yogaya" (1959). By conviction, he also had portrayed a few character roles to emphasize Sinhala-Tamil ethnic harmony. In 1989 he was invited to politics by the then Prime Minister Ranasinghe Premadasa. He served as a regional governor and deputy speaker in Parliament. His influence helped to establish acting as a profession in Sri Lanka. The local critics and the fans considered him as the 'Sri Lanakan Marlon Brando" an accolade that the protagonist did not like to associate with.

The Empereor of the Sri Lankan cinema was tributed on his 67th birth day holding a grand show organized by his loyal fans. Three books written on him were launched on the occasion.

A comprehensive biography written by Dr.Anil Samaranayake was the highlight of the show.