Dian Hemamali Sangeetha Weeraratne (born December 13, 1973, stands as a celebrated figure in Sri Lankan cinema, known for her remarkable acting skills and enduring charm. Making her debut at the tender age of sixteen, Sangeetha’s journey in the film industry has been marked by critical acclaim and popular success.
Early Life and Education
Born to the renowned cinematographer Timothy Weeraratne and his wife Daisy, Sangeetha was introduced to the world of cinema from an early age. She grew up with an elder sister, Nayanatara Weeraratne, who now resides in Australia. Sangeetha’s early education took place at St. John’s Girl’s School in Panadura, followed by her secondary studies at Methodist College in Colombo.
Personal Life
In December 2002, Sangeetha married Roshantha Kariyapperuma, a businessman and co-owner of Voice of Asia Network (Pvt) Ltd, the largest media network in Sri Lanka. This union further solidified her standing in the entertainment industry, blending her personal and professional worlds.
Career Milestones
Sangeetha made her cinematic debut in 1990 with Roy de Silva’s film It’s a Matter of Time, starring opposite Kamal Addararachchi. Although her initial foray into films garnered attention, it was her role in H.D. Premaratne’s Saptha Kanya in 1993 that truly catapulted her to fame. This film not only became a massive success but also earned her the Sarasaviya Best Newcomer Award.
Throughout her illustrious career, Sangeetha has appeared in over 50 movies, showcasing her versatility across various genres. Notable dramatic roles include performances in Saptha Kanya, Nomiyena Minisun, Maruthaya, Duwata Mawaka Misa, Dorakada Marawa, Kinihiriya Mal, Aswesuma, Salelu Warama, and Dheewari. She also shone in comedic roles, particularly in the Dawal Migel Ra Daniyel series and Sapata Dukata Sunny.
In 2001, Sangeetha won the Sarasaviya Best Actress Award for her compelling portrayal of Guneris’ wife in Aswesuma, directed by Bennet Ratnayake. Her popularity soared as she was named the Sarasaviya Most Popular Actress for three consecutive years from 2001 to 2003.
Diversifying Her Talents
Beyond acting, Sangeetha ventured into television, presenting the documentary program Gedara Dora in 2000, which focused on architecture, interior design, and landscaping. This program aired on Rupavahini – 1 and was well-received for its insightful content.
After a seven-year hiatus from television, she returned to the small screen with the serial Theertha Tharanaya in 2003, directed by Bermin Lylie Fernando. This marked a successful comeback, reinforcing her status as a versatile actress.
Production and Recent Work
In 2006, Sangeetha made her mark as a producer with the film Sewwandi, directed by Vasantha Obeysekera. Her recent notable work includes the critically acclaimed film Uppalawanna (2008), directed by Prof. Sunil Ariyaratne, where she portrayed the dual roles of Upuli and the bhikkhuni, Uppalawanna.
In 2021, Sangeetha appeared in the Raffealla Fernando Celebrity Calendar, joining many other Sri Lankan celebrities in this high-profile project.
Legacy and Impact
Sangeetha Weeraratne’s contribution to Sri Lankan cinema is significant. With over 40 commercially successful films to her credit, she remains a beloved and respected figure in the industry. Her journey from a debutante to a seasoned actress and producer reflects her dedication, talent, and enduring appeal in Sri Lankan cinema.
Filmography
Sangeetha’s extensive filmography underscores her versatility and enduring popularity. From her debut in It’s a Matter of Time to her critically acclaimed performances in Aswesuma and Uppalawanna, she has consistently delivered memorable performances that resonate with audiences.
Conclusion
Sangeetha Weeraratne’s career is a testament to her talent and resilience. Her ability to captivate audiences across different genres and mediums has solidified her place as a luminary in Sri Lankan cinema. As she continues to evolve and take on new challenges, her legacy as an actress and producer will undoubtedly inspire future generations in the industry.
