Mahinda Pathirana

Thanthrige Pathirage Mahinda, born on March 22, 1952, with the Sinhala name මහින්ද පතිරගේ, is widely recognized as Mahinda Pathirage. He is a versatile performer in Sri Lankan cinema, stage drama, and television, with a penchant for comedic roles. Notably, he gained significant acclaim for his portrayal of Purohitha in the television sitcom "Raja Sabhawa."

Personal Life:

Mahinda was born in Anuradhapura on March 22, 1952. His father was Thanthiri Pathirage Hendrick Appuhami. Growing up, he was one of 10 siblings in his family. His education extended until the tenth grade at Walisinghe Harischandra Maha Vidyalaya. Before embarking on his dramatic career, he carried on his father's profession as a photo framer and painter. He is married to Kumudini Gunawardhana, and the couple has a daughter named Nipuni Sharada and a son named Nandun Nisanka.

Career:

In 1976, Mahinda, along with fellow artists from Anuradhapura, established a drama group named Jana Nalu Kela. His debut on stage was in the play "Aruma Naruma," produced by Anuradha Ranjith. His performance earned him a merit award. From 1977 to 1979, he was part of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation's Rajarata Sevaya alongside his friend Gunadasa Madurasinghe. He also contributed to the radio play "Rasavita," produced by Premakeerthi de Alwis.

Mahinda's acting journey began with the 1997 television serial "Depethi Dahara," directed by Malini Fonseka. In 2000, he showcased his talent in the popular television comedy "Sina Sagaraya," broadcast by Rupavahini. His association with Swarnavahini began in 2003 when he joined the cast of the sitcom "Raja Sabhawa," alongside Gunadasa Madurasinghe. This production garnered him immense popularity and was eventually adapted into a stage play. In 1983, he secured the Best Actor award in the Youth Drama Festival for his role in the stage play "Paarajika."

His debut in cinema occurred in the 2000 film "Saroja," directed by Somaratne Dissanayake, where he played a minor role. Notable films featuring Mahinda include "Sir Last Chance," "Ethumai Methumai," "Hero Nero," and "64 Mayam." In 2016, Mahinda stepped into the role of Vijaya Nandasiri after his passing in the play "Aluth Horek One." His inaugural performance took place on September 2, featuring shows at 3.30 pm and 6.45 pm at the New Town Hall in Colombo.