Life style
Malini – Forever in bloom
Langa dunuke malakai- dura manel malaki
Udawediya malaki- mal meda mal landaki….Malini was many exotic flowers in full bloom as revered by her many lovers on the screen. She was very much a Bandura in every sense. While scores of film-makers would keep wanting her over and over in their creations, thousands of Malini-fans would be forever ‘trapped’ in her alluring persona. It was not the historically predictable voluptuousness or sensuality in an actress which won Malini the love of an entire nation, but it was essentially her softness, tenderness which put her on a different pedestal.
BY RANDIMA ATTYGALLE
Clad in a pulsating orange sari, Malini Senehelatha Fonseka, the quintessential Queen of Sinhala cinema blended in perfect harmony with Nepenthes Malani-when a new cultivar of Nepenthes (Pitcher plant) or Bandura, as it is locally known, was named in her honour more than ten years ago.
The globally reputed leader in production and export of artificially propagated Nepenthes, Borneo Exotics, led by Robert Cantley and his partner Diana Williams, both British citizens, honoured Malini at an event which took place at the trade fair, Reflection of Sri Lanka, held parallel to Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) at Ape Gama in Battaramulla in November 2013. Two years earlier in 2011 Borneo Exotics had named their gold-medal winning exhibit after Oscar-winning actress Dame Helen Mirren at the Royal Horticulture Flower Show at Hampton Court Palace.
Robert Cantley (who first arrived here in 1997), would draw parallels with Dame Helen in whose name he launched Nepenthes Helen, and observe: “Since her debut in the early 60s, Ms. Fonseka’s contribution to the Sri Lankan cinema has been exceptional. So, I thought why not honour an iconic artiste whose cinematic journey span five decades.”
Malini – the exotic Bandura
Watching Malini lying amidst white roses as the nation bid her a teary farewell a few days ago, I look 12 years back when I was fortunate to have been privy to the momentous moment of her being immortalized beyond the world of cinema; in horticultural circles as well.
“I feel that I have blended with mother nature today,” Malini would say flashing her trademark smile which captivated several generations of Lankans. In her typical unassuming way and in her beautifully modulated ‘screen voice’, Malini would go on to remark: “naming a Bandura in my honour after 50 years in the film industry is not just a milestone in my life.
The gesture is also a tribute to the Sinhala cinema and its fans as much as a personal compliment to me.” She would recall a bright green Bandura from her childhood and add, “with its beauty comes its snaring nature, trapping insects which it digests in the pitchers, making bandura exotic in every sense.”
In the film Thushara, Sampath (Vijaya Kumaratunga) would raphsodize about the beauty of Thushara (Malini) : langa dunuke malakai- dura manel malaki
Udawediya malaki- mal meda mal landaki ….
Malini was many exotic flowers in full bloom as revered by her many lovers on the screen. She was very much a Bandura in every sense. While scores of film-makers would keep wanting her over and over in their creations, thousands of Malini-fans would be forever ‘trapped’ in her alluring persona. It was not the historically predictable voluptuousness or sensuality in an actress which won Malini the love of an entire nation, but it was essentially her softness, tenderness which put her on a different pedestal.
A woman of warmth
At her funeral which pulled crowds from near and far, it was this very tenderness which her fans celebrated through tears. Her middle-name ‘Senehelatha’ translating to ‘a woman of empathy and kindness’ further validated it and she lived up to it.
Her contemporaries, film-critics and many others who knew her would testify to this. As a young journalist when I first got the opportunity of talking to her many years ago, I personally experienced the kindness and warmth she radiated. Malini was a star in every sense but stardom hardly moved her.
When I recollect my first newspaper interview with Malini, questioning on what it meant to her to be dubbed as the ‘Queen of Sinhala cinema’, she would broadly smile and say: “people and cinema may have branded me as the queen, but personally I have never felt so big nor do I feel that way even now. I was very fortunate never to have felt that way because if it had gone too much to my head I would have never come this far.”
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- Malini with Ravindra Randeniya in Aradhana
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- Vijeya and Malini from a scene in Thushara
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- With Gamini Fonseka in Awa soya adare
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- With Tony Ranansinghe in Adarawanthayo
Stamp of femininity
American singer Dolly Parton once remarked, ‘If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then you are an excellent leader.” Our own Malini was all this and more. Beyond her cinematic feats which are well documented, Malini mirrored traits of a true leader which would inspire both women and men alike. She would exemplify the cornerstones of mentoring, empathy and above all, carving a path for several generations to charter.
As H.R. Jothipala would croon in the backdrop, koi yanne banda nalawala- lesi gamane inga solawala- pawena sulage wada mala wage in the Lenin Moraes film Edath Sooraya Adath Sooraya, Malani (playing Kanthi) would walk across the giant screen snubbing her co-star Gamini Fonseka’s advances, disguised as a young lad. Sporting a cap, a shirt and a shapeless pair of trousers, Malini’s sheer femininity cannot be concealed. She remained essentially a wada mala.
All time heart-throb Marylyn Monroe would once say. “Beauty and femininity are ageless and can’t be contrived, and glamour, although the manufacturers won’t like this, cannot be manufactured. Not real glamour; it’s based on femininity.’
Be it her iconic role as Irene in Nidhanaya, Helen in Bambaru Evith, Thushara or Susi to name a few, Malini’s feminine stamp was unmistakable. And this she achieved effortlessly in dissimilar roles from the lover, the matriarch (in Wekanda Walauwa) to the bikkuni (in Uppalawanna). Once in an interview, Malini would candidly admit that if she could turn back the clock, she would have played all of them once more. “However, some of them, I may have even played better,” she would look back.
Delicate beauty
Playing opposite Gamini Fonseka, Vijaya Kumaratunga, Tony Ranasinghe and Ravindra Randeniya- acclaimed as the ‘classical lovers’ of the Sinhala cinema, Malini would capture the imagination of a nation. Many women of the 60s and 70s- the golden era of the Lankan cinema, would have no doubt longed to be in her shoes at least for a day. Malini’s exquisite screen voice rendered her even more special. Her nuances in characterization were subtle. Her beauty was delicate.
Malini would once say: “In our heyday, we too would follow fashion trends, put make-up on, but we knew where to draw the line. By blindly following the so-called trends, you cannot maintain your image. Make-up and all the other externals are temporary, what is important is your strength of character.’ She walked the talk to her end. Despite her prolonged battle to regain her health, Malini remained strong in her will power.
In her career spanning nearly six decades, Malini acted in over 150 films, directed and produced some and even left her footprint on the mini-screen, proving her versatility and adaptability. Malini bridged generations exploring diverse media. “The test of real talent is the ability to capture an audience through different media,” she would once say and she was a living testimony to it.
A love like no other
Malini experienced the best and the worst in life. Although she was larger than life, Malini was very much human. Despite her failing health, the love she received from many, transcending social standing kept her flame burning until the end. “When you realise you are loved by thousands, that feeling itself has a lot of healing power,” she would reflect. At the felicitation ceremony which marked her 78th birthday a few weeks before her passing, Malini would tell a full-house, “I have come looking for love,” echoing the words of one of her best-known films Awa soya adare. Malini fired a nation’s imagination to dream as she would say, “artistes are essentially dream-makers.”
Watching Malini going on her final journey last Monday was an exemplification of renowned British actress Vivien Leigh’s words: ‘Dear Lord, I’m so grateful I’m still loved.’ Malini loved well she will forever be loved by a nation that will continue to hum the much-loved lyrics from the film Adare hithenawa dekkama:
Dese wiman dorin
Sihina ruwan thiren
Nikmi golu basin
Parewi rejina lesin
Oba piyamba gosin….
Cinnamon Life that has re-defined Colombo’s skyline added another accolade to its journey as it officially received its five star certification placing it among the most distinguished luxury properties in Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape.
Receiving the five star classification is a significant achievement for any hotel but Cinnamon Life – the flagship of Sri Lanka’s most ambitious integrated lifestyle development, the accolade carries exceptional meaning. The recognition follows a rigorous evaluation of service standards,facilities,and operational excellence,underscoring the property’s commitment to delivering world class guest experiences
– Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams has been officially awarded the esteemed Five-Star Certification by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), underscoring its status as a landmark in Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape and a benchmark for excellence in the region.
As South Asia’s largest and first fully integrated resort, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams represents a transformative investment in Sri Lanka’s tourism and leisure economy. Developed by John Keells Holdings PLC with a historic USD 1.2 billion investment – the largest private development in the country – the resort has reshaped Colombo into a premier destination for luxury travel, entertainment, world-class events, and international business.
The team marks a major milestone with the property’s five star accreditation
A hallmark of the property is its extensive event and convention infrastructure, featuring over 160,000 sq. ft. of versatile, high-spec event space. With five signature ballrooms, cutting-edge technology, and three exceptional outdoor venues offering panoramic views of the ocean and the Colombo skyline, Cinnamon Life has established itself as an unrivalled hub for global conferences, high-profile celebrations, and corporate gatherings for both local and international travellers.
“We are deeply honoured to receive this Five-Star Certification from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority,” said Sanjiv Hulugalle, CEO and General Manager of Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams. “This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to world-class service, guest centric innovation, and the elevated experiences that define Cinnamon Life. Our aspiration is to set new standards for luxury, leisure, and MICE tourism in the region, while supporting Sri Lanka’s positioning on the global stage.”
The Five-Star Certification further cements Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams as one of Sri Lanka’s foremost luxury destinations. With its two luxury hotels, curated signature dining concepts, immersive entertainment arenas, and a vibrant retail and lifestyle precinct, the resort offers an unparalleled blend of hospitality, lifestyle, and experiences under one iconic address.
The certification was presented at Cinnamon Life, attended by senior leadership from SLTDA and Cinnamon Life, members of the hospitality industry, and media representatives. The event celebrated this milestone achievement and marked a significant step forward in elevating Sri Lanka’s luxury hospitality offering.
About City of Dreams
City of Dreams is Sri Lanka’s largest and most ambitious integrated resort, redefining Colombo’s skyline as a symbol of modern luxury and innovation. Designed as a “city within a city,” the destination offers 800 luxury rooms and suites, with 687 at Cinnamon Life and 113 at NUWA, complemented by a diverse selection of 13 restaurants and bars that showcase global cuisines alongside Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage. Adding to its appeal is a vibrant mix of high-end retail, Sri Lanka’s premier entertainment arena, a shopping mall, office towers, and luxury residences. This integrated ecosystem enables delegates to stay, work, meet, dine, shop, and celebrate seamlessly under one roof, delivering unmatched convenience and engagement.
Cyclone Ditwah carved a trail of devastation as it roared across many regions, unleashing a deluge that transformed the entire towns into destruction. This is one of the most unforgiving storms in recent years – bringing torrential rains, violent winds and a trail of destruction that left thousands displaced in a matter of hours. Homes swept away, roads disappeared and families were forced to flee.
Yet beneath the chaos and loss, a quiet resilience emerged, communities rallied, rescue teams worked around the clock to restore roads, relocate displaced families and ensure the safety of the tourists.
Now with waters slowly receding, the full story of Ditwah’s impact is only a beginning to unfold – a story of heartbreak, survival and the long road to rebuilding.
Cyclone Ditwah delivered a sharp blow to the tourism sector within hours and days, disrupting travel routes, damaging coastal routes, and forcing authorities to reassess visitor safety. as hoteliers,tour operators,and government agencies worked round the clock to stabilise operations.The industry soon reassured global travellers that the island remains open and resilient.Rescue teams were deployed immediately, working around the clock to evacuate families and restore essential services.
While several areas experienced significant damages, authorities assured that key tourism zones remain safe and operational.
A press conference was summoned by the Ministry of Tourism and Foreign affairs, last week bringing together top officials, media and other hospitality partners to address growing public concern,assure international travellers and outline the immediate steps taken to ensure safety across all tourist zones. The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe and Chairman of SLTPB, Buddhika Hewawasam stepped forward to present a clear,unified message that Sri Lanka remains safe, prepared and committed in protecting the visitors. They calmed anxieties,dispelled myths,rumours and dispelled misinformation and revealed the coordinated efforts of the government to keep the hospitality industry unshaken.
Tourism authorities pointed out even in the aftermath of Ditwah,the arrival of the cruise ship sent a powerful message. the ship’s docking underscored that Sri Lanka is safe . The arrival of this luxury cruise liner carrying hundreds of international passengers, was part of a regional voyage from Mumbai to Singapore. This was a symbolic moment unfolding at the harbour, it was a glimmer of hope in a week overshadowed by stormy clouds. The Tourism authorities reflected this arrival as a sign that confidence in Sri Lanka had not lost hope and showed Sri Lanka is steady,ready,and open.
The Deputy Minister of Tourism Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe in a speech marked by confidence and determination said. “Our teams have worked round the clock to ensure safety, restore access routes and support our travellers”.
SLTPB Chairman, Buddhika Hewawasam
Today I assured every traveller Sri Lanka is safe, Sri Lanka is open, and Sri Lanka is ready. He confirmed that all major coastal resorts from Negombo to Bentota remain fully operational. Cultural destinations such as Kandy, Dambulla, Kandy,Sigiriya, are now open. He further noted that national parks,including Yala, Udawalawe,Wilpattu had returned operations following rapid assessments. Our key tourist zones are open,accessible and operating under verified safety conditions. He assured that every tourist in the island was safe,
He praised the rescue teams who had worked round the clock, cleaning roads, supporting displaced families and ensuring tourism infrastructure remained intact. To the world I say please come visit, and explore. Our island stands tall and more ready than ever to welcome you. This is not just recovery, he concluded,this is resilience in action. Finally he stressed that Sri Lanka’s tourism sector had demonstrated structural resilience,operational continuity and readiness to maintain international confidence.
The Chairman of the SLTPB Buddika Hewawasam also briefed the media on the ongoing relief operations. He acknowledged the sharp blow and destruction but underscored the country’s resilience. We want to assure travellers that Sri Lanka remains safe. Our teams are on the ground, our infrastructure is being restored and our hospitality sector stands ready to welcome visitors as recovery unfolds.
He said “New the waters have receded, and Sri Lanka is ready to welcome the world. Cyclone Ditwah swept through the island with devastating force, but in its aftermath, a story of resilience, beauty and unwavering hospitality has emerged – one that travellers are invited to witness firsthand”.
For travellers, this is a chance to experience a Sri Lanka that is vibrant and sparkling with life where cultural heritage, natural beauty and warm hospitality blend. Cyclone Ditwah may have left a mark, but it could not dim the island’s radiance.
The Tourism sector is preparing to move forward with renewed emphasis on resilience, safety and rebuilding confidence among international travellers. Sri Lanka has weathered the storm and the world is already sailing back to its shores.
Tiesh jewellery , announced a meaningful partnership with the Infinite Grace Foundation Sri Lanka, an organisation dedicated to transforming lives through love, dignity, purpose, and long-term social impact.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone as two Sri Lankan entities join hands to address some of the country’s most urgent and overlooked challenges, including mental health, drug addiction, prisoner rehabilitation, anti-human trafficking awareness, and the empowerment of estate communities.
Founded on the belief that “Every life deserves to be seen and loved,” the Infinite Grace Foundation symbolises hope, transformation, and inclusion. The Foundation works to extend a lifeline to those often ignored or marginalised, ensuring they are reminded that they are valued, loved, and never alone.
Their vision is deeply aligned to create a Clean Sri Lanka—not only in its physical environment, but in its hearts, minds, and communities. Through systemic intervention, awareness, and rehabilitation, the organisation aims to restore dignity, provide second chances, and help individuals reclaim their potential.
Stephanie Siriwardhana, Founder of the Infinite Grace Foundation and Brand Ambassador for Pure Gold by Tiesh
As part of its awareness and empowerment initiatives, Infinite Grace Foundation has launched the “I See You” campaign—an effort to recognise, support, and uplift individuals who have long been overlooked. Through this campaign, the foundation aims to promote year-round advocacy, encompassing mental health support, panel discussions, and collaborations with organisations and hotlines that support vulnerable groups across the island.
In support of this meaningful initiative, Tiesh has designed an exclusive jewellery collection created with intention and purpose. All proceeds from the collection will be donated directly to the Infinite Grace Foundation. The range features intricately crafted earrings, pendants, chains, rings, and more for women, as well as bracelets, cufflinks, lapel pins, and rings for men. Offered in diamonds, as well as gold and silver, each piece carries a profound message—that every life deserves to be seen, acknowledged, and loved.
With a legacy spanning more than two decades, Tiesh founded by Lasantha and Bryony De Fonseka, has become synonymous with innovation, excellence, and artistry in Sri Lanka’s jewellery landscape. Today, the family-run business is led by the next generation, with Directors Ayesh De Fonseka and Thiyasha De Fonseka continuing to uphold the brand’s commitment to integrity, community, and craftsmanship.
Stephanie Siriwardhana, Founder of the Infinite Grace Foundation and Brand Ambassador for Pure Gold by Tiesh, expressed the impact of this partnership: “This collaboration is special in many ways, and I’m truly grateful that a prestigious jeweller like Tiesh cares about communities that are often unseen—such as prisoners and estate workers. When you change one life, you change a family. When families transform, communities transform, and soon you change the nation. This initiative comes from a personal place. Many people struggle to ask for help, including myself. Through the ‘I See You’ campaign, we aim to provide support, raise awareness, and offer year-round mental health programs, alongside organisations and hotlines that are equipped to help victims and individuals in need. This partnership with Tiesh will be deeply impactful.”
The work of the Infinite Grace Foundation spans multiple critical pillars, including prison reforms, addiction rehabilitation, community education, vocational training, anti-human trafficking awareness, and mental health destigmatisation—all designed to create long-term, sustainable change across Sri Lanka.
Reflecting on the significance of the collaboration, Director of Tiesh, Ayesh De Fonseka, added, “Helping the community is rooted in our beliefs and upbringing. This partnership presented a meaningful opportunity to give back and support an important cause. We believe in second chances, and many individuals need guidance, care, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. We are honoured to donate all profits from this collection. In the future, we hope to extend support further by offering job opportunities—whether in jewellery craftsmanship, box making, design, or other livelihood pathways.”
Through this partnership, Tiesh and Infinite Grace Foundation reaffirm their shared commitment to building a Sri Lanka where hope thrives, opportunities are equitable, and transformation is within reach for all.
For those wishing to support this initiative or explore the special collection, please visit the Tiesh showroom at 253 R. A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 03, or follow Tiesh on social media for updates and campaign information.
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