Veteran actor Amarasiri Kalansuriya has passed away at the age of 82.
Amarasiri Kalansuriya, widely known as Kalan, has left an indelible mark on Sri Lankan cinema, theatre, and television. He made his debut in the film industry with Hanthana Kathawa, in which he acted alongside Vijaya Kumaratunga. However, it was his remarkable performance in Ahas Gauwa, which won him the Best Actor award in 1974, that established him as a talented actor.
Throughout his illustrious career, Kalan acted in various notable films, including Ahas Gauwa, Akkara Paha, Nimwalalla, Tharangā, Bambaru Avith, Apēkṣhā, Anūpamā, Poḍi Mallī, Kānchanā, Parityāgaya, Sinhabāhu, Vajirā, Sakvithi Suvaya, Yasa Isuru, Doringē Sayanaya, Poojā, Poḍi Wijē, Ahas Māḷigā, and Sāgarayak Mada.
Kalan’s exceptional talent and dedication to his craft were recognized throughout his career. He won the Critics’ Award for his outstanding performance in Ahas Gawwa in 1974, and the Sarasaviya Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1982.
In 1986, he was honored with the Presidential Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Pooja, in addition to winning the Sarasaviya Award in the same category.
In 2019, Kalan was awarded the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at the Derana Lux Film Awards for his invaluable contributions to the Sri Lankan film industry.
With his impressive body of work and numerous accolades, Kalan will always be remembered as one of Sri Lanka’s most accomplished actors.
