Edna Sugathapala

Edna Kamala Yeromani, known as Edna Sugathapala (එඩ්නා සුගතපාල), born on January 3, 1946, and sadly passed away on March 14, 2018, was a versatile artist in Sri Lankan cinema, theater, and television. Notably, she was also an accomplished pianist, vocalist, and astrologer, holding the distinction of being the sole artist in Sri Lankan cinema to work as a professional astrologer. Her most renowned performances can be witnessed in films such as "Miringuwa," "Senehasa," and "Tharanaya."

Edna's final moments were spent at Colombo Nawaloka Hospital, where she passed away on March 14, 2018. In accordance with her wishes, her body was donated to a Medical College.

Personal Life:
Edna was born in Gorakana, Panadura, on January 3, 1946. Her educational journey took her through Good Shepherd Convent, Colombo, and later, Holy Family Convent in Bambalapitiya. Her mother, Swarna Mary Bernadeth, was a film producer. On February 28, 1973, Edna entered into matrimony, and she was blessed with a daughter named Veena.

Career:
Edna's artistic journey began at a young age when she collaborated with the late Rukmani Devi for the song "Doy Doyya Putha" in the film "Daiwayogaya." Her acting career kicked off with the play "Gehenu Hatana," produced by Dick Dias in 1966. In addition to her acting prowess, she showcased her musical talents by playing the piano and accordion in playback music for films like "Surayangeth Suraya" and "Me Desa Kumatada."

Her musical journey commenced at the tender age of 6, and she earned a graduation in piano from Trinity College London. In 1978, Edna released her debut music album titled "Veena," featuring songs written by Karunaratne Abeysekera and music directed by Mohamed Sally. She even performed duets alongside H.R. Jothipala. Edna Sugathapala holds the distinction of being the only Sri Lankan actress to perform as a professional musician in a musical orchestra within a film.

Her debut cinematic appearance was in the 1966 film "Senasuma Kothanada," directed by K.A.W. Perera, where she danced to the song "Sulan Kurullo."

In a remarkable celebration of her 50-year artistic career, on March 14, 2015, Edna released an instrumental music CD titled "Veena." The ceremony took place at the Mahaweli Centre in Colombo. Additionally, she authored a book titled "Sugatha Chintha." In 2019, after a decade-long hiatus, she returned to the world of cinema with the film "Iskoleta Man Awa."

Edna Sugathapala also left her mark on television, featuring in several serials, including "Sakura Mal," "Makara Vijithaya," "Rankira Soya," and "Kindurangana."