Features
Uthpala Wijesuriya’s many journeys

By Uditha Devapriya
Ever since he was small, Uthpala Wijesuriya had been interested in subjects that others did not care for. While most of his friends focused on conventional fields, he preferred subjects like history, politics, art and culture, archaeology, and anthropology. His mind was constantly probing, and he was always looking for people to engage with. Yet while he had friends who shared these interests, not many wanted to engage with them. That did not discourage him, however; it only pushed him to keep exploring.
Uthpala was born in 2003 in Mataluvava, a village located in Polpithigama in the Kurunegala district. He hailed from a rural middle-class family. His father was a Public Health Inspector, and his mother a nurse. While his father had attended Maliyadeva Collge Boys’ School, he obtained his primary education at Polpithigama National School.
In 2013 Uthpala sat for the Grade 5 Scholarship Exam. He scored 190 out of 200 marks. This was a high result, and it enabled him to obtain entry into a leading school. When cutoff marks were released a few months later, his family was informed that he would be able to attend Royal College. The new term would begin in January the following year.
In January 2014, he was boarded at the Royal College Hostel. The Royal College Hostel had its origins in a boarding establishment formed in 1868. Back then it had housed the sons of planters and Ratemahattayas,etc. After independence it turned into a residence for some of the brightest students from outside Colombo. Initially Uthpala found it difficult to adapt to this environment. Sheltered until then in a more secure and close-knit environment, he was now living in a world bigger than any he could ever dream of.
Daunted at first, he soon saw this challenge for what it was: an opportunity to discover himself. He soon identified his passions and found ways of nurturing them. At school and outside, he involved himself in a number of activities. In his first year, for instance, he won the Grade 6 English Language Prize, obtained a Distinction Pass for a Music Examination conducted by Bhatkhande University, and completed a Computer Foundation Course. He also won class prizes and commendable term reports, back-to-back.
The school and the Hostel slowly turned into an outlet for his talents. In 2014 he was part of the singing crew of a musical event called Susara. Two years later he emerged as Runners-Up in the Junior Division of the Colombo Zonal Interschool Orchestra Competition. The same year he was selected to sing at SAGA, the premier musical event at Royal.
These dovetailed with other co-curricular activities, including the General Knowledge Club, Buddhist Brotherhood, and Sinhala Language and Literary Unit. While taking part in them, he also discovered a love for sport. In 2014 he played basketball and football. Later he took part in scouting and in 2016 he entered the Boxing Pool of the L. V. Jayaweera Tournament. He slowly began to develop a passion for boxing: in 2017, he took part in the L. V. Jayaweera Tournament, and entered the Pool of the T. B. Jayah Tournament.
2017, however, was a turning point for Uthpala. The previous year he had joined the Cadet Band. Founded in 1979, the Royal College Cadet Band was regarded as an elite enclave at school. Joining it meant devoting much energy and dedication around the clock. Uthpala was willing to commit both. That, however, meant letting go of boxing.
In 2017 he took part in his first camp. From march past items, general assemblies, and match opening ceremonies, he graduated to more important events. These included stage shows, interschool competitions, training camps, Independence Day parades. He performed well in them all and received awards at his school’s Colours Night.
In 2020 Uthpala sat the O Level examamination and passed them well. This proved to be another turning point. Until now he had focused on sports. Yet it was an unspoken rule at Royal that students should engage with clubs after O Levels. Always eager to try something new, he did not want to be seen as an exception to this.
Immediately after returning to school, Uthpala thus joined not one but three clubs: the History Club, Political Science Society, and Agriculture Society. In 2021, he was appointed to the Top Boards of all three, winding up as Chairman of the History Club.
The latter position encouraged him to put his organisational skills to good use. By now the country had entered the second wave of Covid-19. Schools were sporadically shutting down and reopening, and club work had become limited to Zoom. When he started the club year, as he himself put it, “I had no clear idea how to organise it.”
Yet despite these challenges, he came up with several projects. Many of them revived projects that had been discontinued for years, such as the Professor Senarath Paranavithana Memorial Shield. Many others were new, such as “Memoirs of Serendib ‘21”, Sri Lanka’s first virtual field trip into an archaeological museum.
These projects received much acclaim. In December 2021 they scooped up awards at the College Clubs and Societies Felicitation Ceremony. Two clubs, History and Agriculture, won A grades, while the Political Science Society secured a B.
By this point another responsibility had come down on Uthpala. At the end of 2020 five new students had been appointed as Hostel Prefects. One of them was him.
While basking in his club victories, Uthpala was informed by the outgoing Senior Hostel Prefect batch that he would be appointed as the Head Prefect of the Hostel in 2022. The news came as a shock; he was not sure whether he could balance the post with his other commitments, including his studies. Complicating matters further, while the country was recovering from the pandemic, it was now on the verge an economic collapse.
He soon decided that the best way to face his doubts was to face up to them. Thus he took on the Head Prefectship of the Hostel. With a difficult club year behind him, he and his team of Prefects accepted the challenge of a difficult new year.
As predicted, the country plunged into a seemingly irrevocable economic and political crisis in 2022. Yet Uthpala and his colleagues organised a number of events. The biggest of these was the Hostel Day. Held after seven years, the Hostel Day faced its share of obstacles, to do with sponsorships and budgets, not to mention internal politics. Regardless of these issues, however, the event unfolded in August to much acclaim.
Once the Day was over, Uthpala shifted his focus to his A Levels. At this point he had to balance three responsibilities: as Hostel Head Prefect, a senior official in the Cadet Band, and, from June onwards, a Steward. Yet as he never failed to acknowledge, academics was the reason he had got into Royal. Come what may, he would not neglect them.
After months of ceaseless studying, Uthpala sat for his A Levels in January 2023. He had offered History, Political Science, and Logic. In September he received his results. He had got three As. This was enough to secure a placement at a top national university.
By now he had been appointed as a Senior Prefect. This was and is the highest honour a student can receive at Royal College. He was also appointed as the Head of the Student Archives Committee. That gave him space to combine his organisational skills with his passion for history. Soon he was organising and spearheading projects involving institutions such as the National Archives and the J. R. Jayewardene Centre. In all these initiatives, he displayed not a blind, unconditional love for his school, but a genuine interest in its history and the social and political context underlying its evolution.
While engaging in these duties, he pursued his other interests, including historical research. After leaving school he was pulled into multiple projects. He immersed himself in them, reading, writing, travelling, conducting interviews, and expanding his knowledge. In his own words, “I wanted to pick up everything and anything.”
As usual, he proved capable of balancing these activities. They got him interested in other subjects. These included anthropology and international relations. His interest in the latter eventually encouraged him to enrol for the Diploma Programme at the BCIS. Today, with his prefectship officially over, he is busy pursuing these subjects.
From his upbringing in Kurunegala to his present life in Colombo, Uthpala has lived through some interesting years. When I first met him in 2020, I found myself moved by and drawn to his passion for history. It was almost infectious; you could not fail to notice it or share it. Yet he did not just want to engage with or read up on these subjects; he wanted to engage with others who were engaged in them as well.
For the most, Uthpala has been able to realise these hopes. His work has enabled him to meet people, establish contacts, and forge new pathways. He has been fortunate. Few people deserve these opportunities. Fewer can make use of them. Despite not having even a first qualification or degree, he has done exactly that.
Uthpala is a dreamer. His mind throbbing with ideas, he is now dreaming of and planning for his future. Awaiting the commencement of university, he hopes to pursue not just law, but also sociology and anthropology. These are not popular subjects in Sri Lanka; they are not what most of his peers opt for. Yet his interest in them should not come as a surprise. People like him are rare. Ultimately, they are what this country needs.
The writer is an international relations analyst, researcher, and columnist who can be reached at udakdev1@gmail.com.
Features
US withdrawal from UNHRC, a boon to political repression and ultra-nationalism

The US’ reported withdrawal from the UNHRC and some other vital UN agencies could be seen as a fillip to anti-democratic and ultra-nationalistic forces worldwide. Besides, the stark message is being conveyed that the developing regions of the world would from now on suffer further impoverishment and powerlessness.
The UNHRC needs to be more effective and proactive in bringing to book those states that are lagging in upholding and implementing human rights standards. But thus far it has been notable in the main in only ‘naming and shaming’ periodically those countries that stand accused of human rights and associated violations. More states and their rulers who have proved notorious violators of International Law, for instance, need to be brought to justice.
Hopefully, the UNHRC would be more dynamic in carrying out its responsibilities going forward but it needs material, moral and financial sustenance in increasing measure as it goes about trying to implement its brief. By withdrawing its support for the UNHRC at this juncture the US has further weakened the body and thereby provided a stimulant to the forces of repression worldwide.
What ought to be equally disquieting for the ethically-conscious is the withdrawal of US support for the WHO, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees or the UNRWA and the Paris Climate Agreement. With these actions the US under President Donald Trump has forfeited all claims to being the world’s foremost democracy. It could no longer lead from the front, so to speak, in championing human rights and democratic development.
It is no coincidence that almost at the time of these decisions by the US, President Trump is meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. At the time of writing what transpired at these talks is not known to the public but it is plain to see that under the ultra-rightist Israeli Prime Minister, there would be no easy closure to the Middle East conflict and the accompanying blood-letting.
This is in view of the fact that the hawkish Trump administration would be hand-in-glove with the Netanyahu regime right along. There would be no political solution in the foreseeable future nor could it be guaranteed by the main stakeholders to the Middle East question that the current ceasefire would continue.
As mentioned in this column before, Israel would need strong security guarantees from the Palestinian camp and its supporters before it sits earnestly at the negotiating table but a policy of repression by the Israeli state would in no way help in resolving the conflict and in ushering even a measure of peace in the region. With the staunch support of the Trump administration the Netanyahu regime could stave off Palestinian resistance for the time being and save face among its supporters but peace in the Middle East would continue to be a lost cause.
The issues in focus would only be further compounded by the US decision to cease support for the rehabilitation and material sustenance of Palestinian refugees. This policy decision would only result in the further alienation and estrangement of Palestinians from the Western world. Consequently, Intifada-type uprisings should only be expected in the future.
As should be obvious, the US decision to pull out of the WHO would further weaken this vital agency of the UN. A drop in material, medical and financial assistance for the WHO would translate into graver hardships for the suffering civilians in the world’s conflict and war zones. The end result could be the alienation of the communities concerned from the wider international community, resulting in escalating law and order and governance issues worldwide. Among other things, the world would be having on its hands aggravating identity politics consequent to civilian publics being radicalized.
Considering the foregoing, the inference is inescapable that the US is heading in the direction of increasing international isolation and a policy of disengaging from multilateral institutions and arrangements geared to worthy causes that could serve world peace. As matters stand, it would not be wrong to conclude that the Trump administration is quite content with the prevailing ‘international disorder’.
One of the most negative consequences of the US decision to pull out of the UNHRC is the encouragement the forces of repression and ultra-nationalism could gain by it. In almost all the states of South Asia, to consider one region that is notable from this viewpoint, the forces of ultra-nationalism and majoritarian chauvinism could be said to be predominant.
Unfortunately, such forces seem to be on the rise once again in even post-Hasina Bangladesh. In Sri Lanka these forces are somewhat dormant at present but they could erupt to the surface, depending on how diligently the present government guards against their rise.
However, the government of Sri Lanka could not be said to be going the extra mile currently to blunt the appeal of ultra-nationalism, whether it is of the Southern kind or of the Northern kind. Crunch time for the Sri Lankan state would come when it has to seriously cooperate with the UNHRC and help bring those accused of war crimes in Sri Lanka to justice. On whether it could cooperate in this exercise would depend the democratic credentials of the present regime.
The cumulative result of the Trump administration weakening the UN and its agencies would be the relentless rise of anti-democratic, fascistic and repressive regimes the world over. Given this backdrop, one could expect the war in the Ukraine and those wasting civil wars in Africa to rage on. In the case of the Ukraine, the possibility of the US and NATO not being of one mind on ways of ending the war there, could render closure of the conflict any time soon impossible.
However, waiting on the US with the expectation that it would be pulling itself together, so to speak, before long and addressing the issue of international law and order would be tantamount to handing over the world to a most uncertain future. It is highly unlikely that the Trump administration would prove equal to the challenge of bringing even a measure of order out of the current global chaos, given the primacy it would be attaching to what it sees as its national interest.
Rather than wait in suspense, democracy oriented sections the world over would do well to come together in a meeting of minds, with the UN playing a catalytic role in it, to figure out how they could pool all the resources at their command to bring about a world order that would be more respectful of International Law in word and spirit.
Features
‘The Onset: A Short Story’: A philosophical drama attempting to redefine perception and cinema

Debut filmmaker, Thevin Gamage, presents a bold challenge to the time-honoured conventions of cinema. Through his daring short film, Thevin invites audiences to reconsider ‘the truth’ of cinematic rules. The 180-degree rule is broken with seamless subtlety, and a fresh perspective is offered on breaking the fourth wall.
This 13+ minute dialogue-driven drama, ‘The Onset: A Short Story’ featuring two actors and created with the collaboration of a debut cinematographer, was shot entirely in his living room—a testament to ingenuity and creative audacity.
The film not only aims to redefine the language of cinema but also thematically contests one of Plato’s most renowned teachings—The Allegory of the Cave. Thevin offers a fresh lens to examine ‘truth’ blending bold cinematic innovation with a philosophical exploration of perception, arrogance, and enlightenment.
At its heart, this story reflects the universal tension between belief and truth, highlighting the cost of breaking free from illusions. His debut is both a defiant act of rebellion and a bold invitation to shape the evolution of future cinema, leaving audiences with as many questions as answers.
Born into a family of artists in Sri Lanka, Thevin, grew up surrounded by a legacy of creativity yet confined by the traditional expectations of society. His parents achieved success as actors and later as entrepreneurs.
For Thevin, questioning the rules was not rebellion for its own sake—it was a search for freedom, truth, and new perspectives. This drive began in childhood, where strict parental expectations collided with his innate creativity. Movies became his escape, a lens through which he experienced life, love, and possibility.
Yet it wasn’t until his late twenties, after years of academic success and professional detours that he finally embraced his calling as a filmmaker. His audacious short film bridges his personal journey with his artistic vision. By breaking the 180-degree rule and redefining the fourth wall, the film demonstrates that cinematic rules can evolve—not as acts of rebellion, but as purposeful explorations of storytelling.
In the spirit of art and its boundless novelty, Thevin Gamage seeks to induct exactly that: originality.
His debut film is a bold exploration of cinematic boundaries and philosophical inquiry, redefining two foundational principles of cinema. This film invites audiences to experience a narrative that subtly bends the historical rules of the 180-degree rule and the fourth wall—often without them even realizing it.
This debut dares you.
It’s a resolute challenge to tradition and a provocative reminder that “rules” are just a few letters that form a word.
****
About young filmmaker

Thevin Gamage
Thevin Gamage is a South Asian filmmaker whose journey reflects both a profound reverence for tradition and an unrelenting desire to transcend it.
Born into a family of artists in Sri Lanka, Thevin was shaped by a legacy of creativity and resilience. His grandfather, Sri Lanka’s first film makeup artist, pioneered his craft with remarkable dedication, laying the foundation for a family deeply rooted in the arts. Though Thevin never met him, his grandfather Regie de Silva’strailblazing work ethic and passion for storytelling helped shape the family ethos, inspiring Thevin’s mother and, in turn, Thevin himself. Reggie was the first Sri Lankan makeup artist. He went to India for his studies in makeup artistry and was active during the era when B.A.W. Jayamanne and Rukmani Devi pioneered the Sri Lankan film industry.
Thevin’s mother, Kumudumali De Silva, a celebrated Best Supporting Actress winner two decades ago and recent Lifetime Achievement Award honoree for her contributions to the wedding industry, met his father, Nihal Gamage, while on set. Together, they transitioned from the entertainment industry to entrepreneurial success, founding a wedding photography and bridal dressing business. Their ventures flourished, even leading to the publication of their own wedding magazine, providing a middle-class life of success and recognition.
Despite these creative roots, societal expectations in Sri Lanka compelled Thevin to pursue academics. After excelling at the University of Toronto with a degree in Political Science, Economics, and Psychology, Thevin still yearned for storytelling. In his late twenties, after years of professional detours, he enrolled in film school and committed fully to his craft.
Operating outside the framework of traditional film production companies, Thevin embraced the challenges of independence. From conceptualization to execution, his debut film is a testament to his determination, ingenuity, and unwavering commitment to his vision. His journey as an independent filmmaker exemplifies the power of creative freedom to challenge norms and shape unique perspectives.
Thevin’s work invites audiences to question, reimagine, and ultimately transform their understanding of storytelling. His journey is not just one of artistic pursuit but an act of defiance—an effort to inspire others to embrace the power of the arts and forge paths beyond traditional norms.
Features
Top three at 40th Mrs World pageant

While South African model Tshego Gaelae becomes the first Black woman to win the Mrs. World title in its 40-year history, we, too, were in the spotlight, at the finals.
Ishadi Amanda took the No. 02 slot, being the first runner-up at the prestigious pageant, held in Las Vegas, USA, from 29-30 January, 2025.
Thailand’s Ploy Panperm was placed third, as the second runner-up.
Sri Lanka’s Ishadi had support from the audience when her name was announced as one of the three finalists.
The Mrs World pageant winner, from South Africa, expressed her thanks on Instagram, saying, “To God be the glory. Thank you so much for the love and support, I am beyond grateful and elated! My beautiful South Africa, the crown is coming home,” she shared with her followers, encapsulating her elation and gratitude.
The Mrs World pageant, established in 1984, stands as the first international beauty contest solely for married women, providing a platform for married contestants to showcase not just their beauty, but also their intellect and community outreach efforts.
Before being picked as the winner, Mrs South Africa was asked: “What is the biggest challenge you have faced and achieved?” And her answer was brilliant:

Rosy Senanayake: Mrs World 1984
“I was so stressed on social media. Social media people should use it to share knowledge and good things. But it’s used to stress people out. But I stood up for myself without that social media pressure. I used the same social media that stressed me out to share good thoughts and hope to get to the victorious place I am today.”
Gaelae’s success is a testament to the ideals celebrated by the pageant, where diversity and empowerment take centre stage.
Gaelae balances her roles as a devoted mother, wife, labour relations manager, and model.
Being the first black woman to clinch the title at the Mrs World pageant has ignited a sense of pride and celebration among South Africans.
The Mrs South Africa Organisation, which played a crucial role in supporting Gaelae’s remarkable journey, also expressed their pride through a statement: “From Soweto to Vegas and now the World, @mrsworldpageant The Crown is Coming Home! Thank you to everyone who supported our queen on her incredible Journey.”
Gaelae returned home to a triumphant celebration fit for a queen.
At the airport to welcome her were her family, friends, church community, the Mrs South African team board and alumni, and the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg.

The crowning of the 40th Mrs World winner
And, guess what? Gaelae is now in touch with me!
Second Runner-up Mrs Thailand Ploy Panperm is quoted as having said: “I believe that modern married women have the potential to excel in multiple roles – as wives, mothers and even as beauty queens – embodying intelligence, talent and beauty.”
For the record, it was our very own Rosy Senanayake who brought Sri Lanka fame at this pageant … being crowned Mrs World at the very first Mrs World pageant, in 1984.
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