Sinhala film legend Gamini dies

Famous Sinhala cinema actor and producer Gamini Fonseka died on Thursday at the age of 68.

Gamini, who passed away at his home in Ja ela in western Sri Lanka, was considered the most important actor of the Sinhala screen.

Gamini in the award-winning Gamperaliya

He proved a versatile actor who was at ease with art films as well as commercial cinema.

Gamini began his career as a technician in the earlier films of celebrated director Lester James Pieris.

Born Sembuge Don Shelton Gamini Fonseka on 21 March 1936, he first started acting in the late 1950s.

Gamini not only revolutionised the acting style of Sinhala screen, but also worked hard to change attitudes in the industry.

He was known to be a man who always spoke his mind.

In a career spanning half a century, Gamini acted, directed and produced several remarkable films and composed lyrics before turning to politics.

In 1989 he was invited into politics by then Prime Minister Ranasinghe Premadasa.

He served as a regional governor and as deputy speaker in Parliament.