Buddhika Jayaratne’s rise in the Sri Lankan film industry wasn’t one he anticipated, but his journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From an unplanned entry into acting to becoming a celebrated figure in Sri Lankan cinema, Buddhika’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and dedication to his craft.
A Serendipitous Beginning
Buddhika’s path to acting was far from typical. After completing his secondary education, he pursued a career in the airline industry while also exploring fashion design. As an avid cinema enthusiast, Buddhika had a strong interest in enhancing costume design in Sinhala films, particularly in commercial cinema. He boldly approached filmmaker Udayakantha Warnasooriya to pitch his ideas.
What he didn’t expect was that this encounter would lead to his silver screen debut. Although he had long aspired to act, he never believed he would get the opportunity in such a major production under a renowned director, yet he was offered the role without even asking. Buddhika was cast as Gihan in what would become his first film, Rosa Wasanthe, in 2001. He also contributed as the costume designer, thus marking the start of his dual contributions to the industry.
This dual role in his first film marked a turning point in his life, launching his career as an actor. “I never asked for the acting role,” he recalls. “It was completely unexpected when Udayakantha offered me the chance to act, and that’s how my journey in film began.”
Self-Taught and Determined
One of the key challenges Buddhika faced early on in his acting career was the absence of formal training opportunities in Sri Lanka. “The society was my academia,” Buddhika claimed. “I learned from the people I met on a daily basis, as I was privileged to interact with different tiers of society.”
Without access to structured acting lessons, Buddhika committed to self-learning, observing other actors, studying performances, and constantly challenging himself to improve. This dedication to personal growth, despite the lack of formal resources, has been central to his success. Over time, he honed his skills, learning the craft through experience and perseverance.
Buddhika also knew when to pause. After his maiden direction, Dedunu Wessa, in 2006, he took a step back to research further and sharpen his skills. Now, almost 20 years later, he is ready to direct his next film, produced by Ravi Rodrigo under We Global Entertainment Production. “I think I’m ready now for the next challenge,” Buddhika said.
Tackling Challenges and Embracing Responsibility
Like many actors, Buddhika faced obstacles along the way, but his determination to overcome them and improve his craft set him apart. His journey has provided him with a platform to take on roles that address significant societal issues and bring much-needed attention to underrepresented stories.
Through films like Puthandiya (2016) and Swara (2023), Buddhika has portrayed characters that challenge stereotypes and prompt audiences to reflect on their own lives. “Acting gives me the opportunity to highlight the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people,” he says, adding that he takes this responsibility very seriously. “It’s a way to bring important social issues to the forefront and spark conversations that can lead to positive change.”
A Career Full of Achievements
Buddhika believes that every role is a milestone. “There are no big or small characters in films; only big acting and small acting.” This philosophy has driven his approach to acting, and the recognition he has received for his work reflects his belief in collaboration and commitment to storytelling.
One of the most notable achievements in Buddhika’s career was winning the Best Actor in a Negative Role award at the 2013 Derana Lux Cinema Awards for his performance in Senasuru Maruwa. This award was particularly meaningful, as it was the first time such an accolade had been presented in the Sri Lankan film industry.
Beyond local acclaim, Buddhika has also ventured into the international arena, taking part in Arugam Bay (2024), an Israeli production, and Sunny’s Mansion (2024), an Australian production, marking another significant achievement in his career. His work in international films has allowed him to broaden his horizons and bring Sri Lankan talent to global audiences. These projects not only showcased his versatility but also contributed to building bridges between Sri Lankan cinema and the world stage. “Working internationally has given me the opportunity to grow as an actor, learning from different cultures and creative approaches,” he reflects.
Whether on home soil or abroad, Buddhika’s dedication to his craft remains unwavering. His journey is a testament to his ability to adapt, grow, and shine in diverse cinematic landscapes, continually pushing the boundaries of his potential.
Israeli feature movie
Shot in 2022 in Sri Lanka
And this his 1st international movie acted
Directed by Herman Perera
An Australian feature movie
Shot in 2023 in Melbourne
And this is his 2nd international movie acted
Making a Community Impact
Beyond his acting roles, Buddhika’s work has had a broader impact on the community. His involvement in films that address societal challenges has resonated with audiences, contributing to important conversations. Through his roles, he has helped highlight the struggles of ordinary people, offering both insight and a platform for reflection.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Buddhika also took steps to promote sustainability by launching Artha by Buddhika Jayaratne, a small business focused on recycling and upcycling old furniture. This initiative was not only about encouraging environmentally friendly practices but also about supporting a shift in consumer behavior towards more sustainable living.
Staying Inspired and Moving Forward
What keeps Buddhika motivated is his deep love for acting and storytelling. “I genuinely enjoy what I do—the process of bringing characters to life, telling stories, and connecting with audiences.” This passion fuels his drive to continuously challenge himself and improve his craft. He also finds inspiration in the people around him—family, friends, and colleagues whose support has been a constant source of motivation.
For Buddhika, acting is more than just entertainment; it’s a way to connect with people and inspire meaningful reflection. By encouraging his fans to offer feedback and participate in discussions around his films, he hopes to create a deeper dialogue between art and audience. “I want my fans to feel like they’re a part of the creative process. Their encouragement means the world to me, but their constructive feedback is what helps me continue evolving in my craft.”
As he continues to challenge himself and explore new roles, Buddhika remains committed to using his platform to make a positive impact on both the screen and in the community. His journey in Sri Lankan cinema is one of passion, resilience, and a deep connection to the audience that fuels him every step of the way.
𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞, 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞, 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥!
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