Uddika Premarathna, born on in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is a prominent figure known for his diverse talents and contributions to both the entertainment industry and politics. As an actor, singer, television announcer, and former Member of Parliament, Premarathna has carved a niche for himself in multiple arenas, captivating audiences and serving his community with dedication.
Premarathna made his cinematic debut in 2011 with a minor role in the Buddhist film “Mahindagamanaya.” His breakthrough came in 2013 with the lead role in “Samanala Sandhawaniya,” a film that celebrated a successful 100-day run in theaters. His portrayal of Vadisha Wikramanayaka earned him widespread acclaim and awards, including “Best Actor” at the 2014 Sumathi Awards. This role not only showcased his acting prowess but also established him as a household name in Sri Lanka.
Premarathna’s success continued with his portrayal of King Dutugemunu in the 2015 blockbuster “Maharaja Gemunu,” directed by Jayantha Chandrasiri. The film was awarded Most Popular Movie at the 2016 Hiru Golden Film Awards, further solidifying Premarathna’s reputation as a talented actor. His role as King Valagamba in the critically acclaimed epic historical film “Aloko Udapadi” in 2017 highlighted his versatility and ability to bring historical figures to life on screen.
In 2019, Premarathna took on a completely different role in the thriller action film “Rush,” where he played Rashan ‘Rush’ Wijemanna. This departure from his usual roles as Sinhalese kings and monarchs demonstrated his range as an actor and his willingness to explore diverse characters.
In 2020, Premarathna transitioned to politics, representing the Anuradhapura District in the Sri Lankan Parliament as a member of the Sri Lanka People’s Freedom Alliance. He won the election with a significant majority of votes, demonstrating his popularity and the trust the public placed in him. During his tenure, Premarathna focused on various developmental projects and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of his constituents.
However, his political journey faced challenges. On September 2023, Premarathna narrowly escaped an assassination attempt at his residence in Anuradhapura. Unidentified gunmen opened fire as he was getting out of his car, but he remained unharmed. This incident underscored the risks faced by public figures in Sri Lanka.
Premarathna’s political career took another turn when he resigned from his parliamentary seat on February 2024. He and his family subsequently sought political asylum in Canada, citing safety concerns. Despite these challenges, Premarathna has continued to advocate for his community and contribute to public discourse.
Throughout his career, Premarathna has received numerous awards and accolades. His performance in “Samanala Sandhawaniya” earned him the “Best Actor” award at the 2014 Sumathi Awards, and he was nominated for “Most Popular Actor” at the 2014 Hiru Golden Film Awards. In 2016, he won the “Best Actor” award at the OCIC Awards for his role in “Samanala Sandhawaniya.”
Premarathna’s contributions to the entertainment industry were further recognized when he won the “Most Popular Actor” award at the 2019 Sumathi Awards and the 2023 Raigam Tele’es. These awards reflect his enduring popularity and impact on Sri Lankan cinema and television.
Uddika Premarathna’s multifaceted career reflects his unwavering commitment to his passions and his community, making him a beloved figure in Sri Lanka. Whether on screen or in the political arena, Premarathna has consistently demonstrated his dedication to excellence and his desire to make a positive impact.
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