Remembering Gamini Fonseka

Today marks nine years since the death of Gamini Fonseka a veteren actor, director and a politician.
Let us take a look back at the illustrious career of Gamini Fonseka.

Gamini fonseka was born on March 21, 1936 - the third child of`William and Daisy Fonseka — starting his school at Presbyterian Vidyalaya in dehiwela, he moved to S.Thomas' College, Mount Lavinia.
Fonseka abruptly ended his secondary education and dove into the film industry in 1956.

Fonseka was first on screen in Rekhava, as part of a crowd.
Fonseka’s first credited acting role came in 1959,  Lester  James Peiris' Sandeshaya. In 1960 established him in a leading role. with films

like Ranmuthu Duwa, Getawarayo, Deewarayo and Gampereliya.  Fonseka achieved popularity and became a box-office draw.

Fonseka also tried out directing - to much accolade - his debut directoral work Parasathu mal was warmly recieved .

In 1989, fonseka entered politics, after he oined the United National Party. He was elected to Parliament from the Matara district and held the post of Deputy Speaker. He was later appointed governor by President Chandrika Kumaratunge for the north east. Fonseka also held the post of Goup Director of the Capital Maharaja Organisation.
Fonseka died at the age of 68 at his residence. His death left a vast void in every reach of society.