Girley Gunawardhana

Dona Girley Grace Gunawardana, known as Girley Gunawardana, was a prominent figure in Sri Lankan cinema, born on November 15, 1935, in Mount Lavinia. She was the fifth child in her family and received her education at Girls High School Mount Lavinia.

Girley Gunawardana's journey in the world of cinema began when she responded to an advertisement by Sri Murugan New Art Film Company in 1952. This opportunity led to her debut role in the film "Prema Tharagaya." Her talent caught the eye of filmmakers, and she continued to be part of the industry.

During her career, Girley worked with notable individuals in the industry, including acting master Sirisena Wimalaweera. Her breakthrough came with her lead role as "Thangamma" in the popular film "Saradiel" in 1953.

In a unique twist, Girley's personal and professional lives intertwined when she married the popular film actor Stanley Perera. They appeared together on screen as lovers in the 1956 film "Duppathage Dukka," which included a scene where Girley was accidentally slapped by another actor, resulting in her hospitalization for three days.

Girley Gunawardana's filmography included commercially successful movies like "Ganthera," "Suba Sarana Sepa Sithe," "Sasaraka Hati," "Laa Dalu," "Hathara Maha Nidhanaya," "Iwasana Danaa," "Davena Pipasaya," "Tom Pachaya," and "Rasa Rahasak." In a particularly memorable moment, she acted alongside her daughter, Sabeetha, in the 1967 film "Iwasana Danaa."

After becoming a mother, Girley took a step back from the cinema but made a few minor appearances. Her final film role was in the 1994 film "Ahas Maliga."

Girley Gunawardana passed away on March 11, 2012, at the age of 76. Her remains were laid to rest at her residence, and her funeral took place on March 13, 2012, at the Borella Cemetery.

Notably, Girley Gunawardana was the mother of the renowned actress Sabeetha Perera, who also made her mark in Sinhala cinema and even won a Sarasaviya Award for Best Actress in 1985.