Nilmini Thennakoon is a distinguished actress in Sri Lankan cinema and television. Known for her versatility, she has won numerous Best Actress awards at local film festivals. Fondly referred to as the “tear drop” of Sinhala television and the Sri Lankan Madhuri Dixit, Nilmini’s career spans over decades of impactful performances.
Early Life and Education
Nilmini Thennakoon was born to Piyadasa Thennakoon and Shriyani Thennakoon in Moratuwa. She grew up with an elder brother, the late Deleepa Thennakoon, and a younger sister. After the death of her father when she was 13, Nilmini completed her education at Princess of Wales’ College.
Personal Life
Nilmini was married to the popular singer Madhumadhawa Aravinda. The couple met during the filming of the teledrama “Pini Bindu” in 1992 and married on May 5, 1996. They have one daughter, Swetha Mandakini. However, their marriage ended in the early 2000s.
In 2007, Nilmini faced a severe car accident that resulted in grievous injuries, leading to her hospitalization in the ICU. Despite this, she made a remarkable recovery and continued her acting career.
Career
Nilmini’s acting journey began in the 1980s while she was still in school, where she studied dancing under the guidance of Mrs. Vajira Chitrasena and Mrs. Chitra Kumari Kalubowila. Her talent was soon recognized by director Roy de Silva and actress Sumana Amarasinghe, leading to her cinematic debut in the film “Hitha Honda Chandiya.”
Her first significant television role was in the play “Dimithu Muthu,” followed by a notable performance in the film “Keli Madala” (1991). Nilmini gained widespread popularity with her role as “Deepthi” in the long-running television serial “Doo Daruwo.” This character became a defining success in her career.
Nilmini’s first major film role was in “Yukthiyata Wada” (1990). Over the years, she has starred in many acclaimed films, including “Keli Madala,” “Nagaran,” and “Le Kiri Kandulu.”
Awards and Recognitions
In 1992, Nilmini won the Sarasaviya Award for Best Upcoming Actress for her role in “Suranimala.” She later won the Sarasaviya Award for Best Actress for her performance as “Veena” in “Le Kiri Kandulu.” Her popularity continued to soar as she won the Most Popular Teledrama Actress Award for six consecutive years.
In 2008, Nilmini won the Raigam Tele’es Best Actress Award for her role in “Handewa.” In 2016, she received the Sumathi Award for Best Actress for her performance in “Amma.”
Other Ventures
Apart from acting, Nilmini participated in the reality program “Hiru Mega Stars” as the leader of the group Shakyans. She also hosted the psychology television program “Sith Giman Hala” on TV Derana.
Currently, Nilmini runs a beauty salon in Nugegoda, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit alongside her artistic talents.
Conclusion
Nilmini Thennakoon’s journey in the Sri Lankan entertainment industry is marked by resilience, talent, and dedication. Her contributions to cinema and television have left an indelible mark, earning her a place among the most celebrated actresses in Sri Lanka.
