By: Isuru Parakrama
May 24, Colombo (LNW): Wanniarachchige Malini Senehelatha Fonseka, fondly known as Malini Fonseka, was a towering figure in Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape—an iconic actress, revered theatre artist, pioneering director, and politician.
Born on April 30, 1947 in Kelaniya, she rose from modest beginnings to become the “Queen of Sri Lankan Cinema.” Her passing on May 24, 2025, at age 78, marks the end of an era that defined generations of artistic excellence.
Malini’s journey began in the theatre with her 1963 stage debut Noratha Ratha. Her breakthrough came in 1969 when she won Best Actress at the National State Drama Festival. She transitioned to cinema in 1968, debuting in Tissa Liyansooriya’s Punchi Baba, and swiftly rose to prominence with standout performances in films such as Dahasak Sithuwili and Adarawanthayo. By the 1980s, her talent was officially recognised with multiple Sarasaviya Best Actress Awards for Hingana Kolla, Aradhana, and Yasa Isuru.
Across a career spanning over seven decades and more than 140 films, Malini Fonseka became a beloved household name, admired for her emotional range and authenticity. Her cinematic pairings, particularly with Gamini Fonseka, remain amongst the most iconic in Sinhala film history. She also made waves internationally, starring opposite Sivaji Ganesan in the Tamil film Pilot Premnath (1978), and winning a special Jury Award at the 1975 Moscow International Film Festival—making her the first Sri Lankan actress to be so honoured on the global stage.
Born the third of eleven siblings to Gilbert and Seelwathie Fonseka, Malini was part of a deeply artistic family. Several of her siblings and extended relatives have been involved in Sri Lanka’s film and drama industry, including actresses Samanalee and Senali Fonseka, and director Prasanna Vithanage. Her family’s enduring presence in the arts reflects Malini’s legacy not only as a performer but as a matriarchal figure in the country’s cinematic community.
Beyond cinema, Malini made an indelible mark in television. She was a trailblazer as Sri Lanka’s first female teledrama director, debuting with Nirupamala. Her performances in Pitagamkarayo, Kemmura, Ambu Daruwo, and Manalada Puthe Kiri Dunne were widely acclaimed, earning her Sumathi Best Teledrama Actress Awards. Her directorial work on series like Sanasili Suwanda cemented her as a formidable force behind the camera as well.
Not confined to the screen, Malini also ventured into politics. In 2010, recognising her influence and public appeal, she was appointed as a Member of Parliament representing the United People’s Freedom Alliance. Her entry into public service demonstrated her broader commitment to the nation and was a testament to her stature as a cultural ambassador.
Her talents continued to resonate even in later years. In 2024, she delivered a mesmerising performance in the music video Eya Wasanthaya Nowe, alongside rising artist Chapa Jayaruk. Her emotional depth and expressive presence reminded audiences of her timeless appeal, even as she approached the twilight of her career.
Over the years, Malini Fonseka amassed a remarkable collection of awards and honours. Aside from her numerous Sarasaviya, Presidential, and OCIC Awards, she was honoured with the Wishva Prasadhini Award by President Chandrika Kumaratunga in 1996. In 2003, a grand tribute titled Maliniye was held at the BMICH, recognising her four-decade contribution to Sri Lankan cinema. Sri Lankan expatriates in the United States also honoured her in 2008 at a special event hosted by the Consul General in Los Angeles. Most recently, in 2019, she received the Janabhimani Honorary Award.
CNN’s inclusion of Malini Fonseka amongst Asia’s 25 greatest film actors of all time in 2010 was a fitting international recognition for a woman whose artistry transcended borders and languages. Her unique ability to bring profound humanity to her roles made her not only a national treasure but a symbol of South Asian cinematic excellence.
Malini Fonseka’s passing in Colombo, whilst receiving treatment in hospital, leaves an irreplaceable void. But her legacy—etched in celluloid, drama, public service, and the hearts of her people—will endure for generations. Her name will forever evoke elegance, resilience, and a boundless passion for storytelling.
