Kamal Addararachchi

Addararachchige Gunendra Kamal, born on February 5, 1962 (Sinhala: කමල් අද්දරආරච්චි), is widely recognized by his popular moniker Kamal Addararachchi. He has made a significant impact as an actor in Sri Lankan cinema, theater, and television, in addition to his roles as a singer and presenter. Regarded as one of the most eminent Sinhala actors of all time, Kamal Addararachchi marked his acting debut while still a student with a role in Gamini Fonseka's 1981 movie "Sagarayak Meda."

Since the late 1970s, Kamal has graced the screen with his versatile performances, encompassing a diverse array of characters in numerous films and teledramas. His portfolio boasts a remarkable tally of over 40 films, 20 teledramas, and 6 stage plays. One of his crowning achievements came in 2002 when he clinched the coveted Sarasaviya Best Actor Award for his portrayal of Sobana in Jayantha Chandrasiri's film "Agnidahaya."

Beyond acting, Kamal made his mark as a singer in 1993 through the duet "Unmadawoo" with Damayanthi Jayasooriya, featured in the film "Saptha Kanya." He also assumed hosting duties for the initial three seasons of the reality show "Sirasa Superstar" and the first season of "Hiru Mega Stars."

Kamal's educational journey took him through Wesley College in Colombo. His early inclination towards the arts led him to explore music, Sinhala literature, Kandyan Dancing, and debating concurrently. Notably, he served as the secretary of the 'Sinhala Literary Society' during his school days.

Married to Anurani Addararachchi, Kamal is a father of two sons. In addition to his artistic pursuits, he also worked as an English teacher.

Kamal's theatrical career took flight with the staging of "Ane Ablick" in Colombo in 1978, marking his prominent debut in public theater. His breakthrough in cinema came under the guidance of Gamini Fonseka with "Sagarayak Meda," propelling him to prominence with hits like "Saptha Kanya."

His exceptional performances extended to films like "Saptha Kanya" by H. D. Premaratne, "Agnidahaya" by Jayantha Chandrasiri, and teledramas such as "Hiruta Muvaven" by Herbert Ranjith Peiris, "Rathu Rosa" by Ranjan De Silva, and "Weda Hamine" and "Dandubasna Maanaya" by Jayantha Chandrasiri.

His portrayal in the teledrama "Dandubasna Maanaya" earned him dual recognition at the inaugural Sumathi Tele Awards in 1995, where he secured the titles of Best Supporting Actor and Most Popular Actor. Kamal holds Dinal Samaranake in high regard as his mentor, providing invaluable advice during moments of personal struggle.

In July 2012, Kamal ventured into the realm of music videos, starring alongside Mahendra Perera and Dayan Witharana in the song "Hithagaawa" by Tilan Fernando. Directed by Prasanna Andradi, the music video was released in December 2012.

Although Kamal has been absent from teledramas since 2005 and hasn't appeared in a movie since 2017, his contributions to the entertainment industry remain enduring. His accolades include the Sumathi Best Supporting Actor Award (1995), Sumathi Most Popular Actor Award (1995), Best Supporting Actor Presidential Award (1996), and the Sarasaviya Best Actor Award (2002).