Raween Kanishka is a name that resonates with talent and versatility in the Sri Lankan entertainment industry. A singer, actor, presenter, dancer, and dubbing artist, Raween has carved a niche for himself as an award-winning multitalented artist of the younger generation. His journey from a reality show contestant to a celebrated figure in multiple entertainment fields is a testament to his exceptional talent and relentless dedication.
Rising to Fame: The Early Years
Raween Kanishka’s journey to stardom began with his remarkable participation in the 4th season of “Derana Dream Star,” one of Sri Lanka’s most popular singing reality shows. His exceptional singing talent earned him the first runner-up position, propelling him into the limelight. Not one to rest on his laurels, Raween went on to secure first place in two more reality shows: “Derana Star City Season 1” and “Derana Star City Season 2,” solidifying his reputation as a formidable talent in the music industry.
An Acclaimed Actor
In 2017, Raween made his acting debut in the award-winning teledrama “Deweni Inima,” where he portrayed the lead character, Anuhas Fernando. His stellar performance garnered him numerous accolades, including the Most Popular Teledrama Actor at prestigious award ceremonies such as Raigam Tele’es, Sumathi Awards, 3CS Tele Film Festival Australia, and SLIM-Nielson/SLIM Kantar People’s Awards, winning these awards seven times. His instant success in acting was further cemented with his role in “Diyani,” the first-ever weekend teledrama in Sri Lanka to trend at number one. Raween’s acting prowess extended to web dramas, where he played lead roles in popular series like “Kiss Season 1,” “Kiss Season 2,” “We Season 1,” “We Season 2,” and “Ima.”
A Cinematic Debut
Raween’s versatility as an actor was showcased once again in 2023 when he made his film debut in “Ksheera Sagaraya Kalabina,” directed by the esteemed Professor Sunil Ariyaratne. In this film, Raween portrayed the character of Hirimala, one of the main roles, further establishing his presence in the Sri Lankan cinema industry.
A Charismatic Presenter
Raween’s talent is not confined to singing and acting alone. He began his presenting journey as a radio presenter and soon transitioned to television, hosting several TV programs, reality shows, award ceremonies, and musical shows both in Sri Lanka and abroad. Notably, he is the main presenter of “Derana Dream Star,” the very show that launched his career, for three consecutive seasons. Additionally, he presents the Raigam Tele’es, where he has also won awards for his acting.
Brand Ambassador and Beyond
Raween Kanishka’s influence extends beyond the entertainment industry. He is a brand ambassador for several popular brands and has contributed as a dancer, dubbing artist, musician, and musical director. His diverse talents and charismatic personality have made him a sought-after figure for various roles in the entertainment industry.
Global Reach and Recognition
Raween’s talent has not only captivated the Sri Lankan audience but has also gained international recognition. He has performed in nearly 25 countries, delivering around 200 musical shows, showcasing his musical prowess to a global audience. His popularity and influence led to the creation of a program named after him, “Who Wants to Sing with Raween,” on the Ceyflix Channel.
Awards and Nominations
Throughout his illustrious career, Raween Kanishka has garnered numerous awards and nominations. Notably, he was nominated for Best Singer at the State Music Awards in 2017, reflecting his exceptional vocal talent.
Conclusion
Raween Kanishka is a beacon of versatility and talent in the Sri Lankan entertainment industry. His journey from a reality show contestant to a celebrated singer, actor, presenter, dancer, and dubbing artist is an inspiring story of dedication and passion. With his impressive array of skills and numerous accolades, Raween continues to be a beloved figure, captivating audiences both in Sri Lanka and around the world.
