Quick Info: Uddika Premarathna
- Full Name: Uddika Premarathna
- Date of Birth: 16 September 1980 (age 44)
- Place of Birth: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
- Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in)
- Political Party: Jathika Nidahas Peramuna
- Other Political Affiliations: Supreme Lanka Coalition (since 2022), Sri Lanka People’s Freedom Alliance (2019–2022)
- Spouse: Anusha Kumari Pannala
- Children: 1
- Education: St. Joseph’s College, Anuradhapura
- Occupation: Politician
- Profession: Actor, Singer
Uddika Premarathna, a multifaceted personality born on September 16, 1980, in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, has seamlessly transitioned from an accomplished actor to a respected politician. Standing at a height of 1.75 meters (5 ft 9 in), he has become a recognizable figure in both Sri Lankan cinema and politics, captivating audiences through his performances and influence on the public stage. Premarathna’s journey is as diverse as it is inspiring, marked by notable achievements and contributions to Sri Lanka’s entertainment industry and political landscape.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Anuradhapura, Uddika Premarathna attended St. Joseph’s College, where his love for the arts began to flourish. His early exposure to Sri Lankan culture and arts inspired him to pursue a career in acting, which would eventually pave the way for his entry into the world of entertainment. Beyond the lights of the cinema, his journey has been marked by a strong commitment to his community and a desire to bring positive change to Sri Lankan society.
Acting Career
Premarathna’s acting debut in 2011 was marked by his role in Mahindagamanaya, where he played a minor role that began his career on the big screen. However, it was his portrayal of Vadisha Wikramanayaka in Samanala Sandhawaniya in 2013 that brought him widespread recognition and acclaim. This film, which completed a successful 100-day run in theaters, established Premarathna as a prominent actor in Sri Lankan cinema. His ability to bring depth to his roles earned him nominations and awards, including a nomination for “Most Popular Actor” at the 2014 Hiru Golden Film Awards and a “Best Actor” award at the 2014 Sumathi Awards.
Premarathna continued his success with notable roles in Maharaja Gemunu (2015), where he portrayed the revered King Dutugemunu, and Aloko Udapadi (2017), where he took on the role of King Walagamba. These films solidified his reputation for portraying strong historical characters, a feat that won him critical acclaim and admiration from audiences. Diversifying his portfolio, Premarathna starred in the 2019 action thriller Rush as Rashan ‘Rush’ Wijemanna, a character markedly different from his previous roles, which typically included noble and historical figures.
In addition to his work in film, Premarathna has appeared in numerous television serials, including Bonda Meedum, Eka Gei Minissu, and Kalu Araliya. His performances have consistently captivated audiences and demonstrated his versatility as an actor. His contributions to Sri Lankan television have further solidified his standing as one of the most respected figures in the entertainment industry.
Music and Awards
Beyond acting, Premarathna is also an accomplished singer. He has released several songs, such as Adare Kalath, Nethu Addara, and Mage Wela Mage. His music, much like his acting, resonates with his fans and showcases his range of talent. Over the years, Premarathna has received numerous awards, including the “Best Actor” at the OCIC Awards for Samanala Sandhawaniya and “Most Popular Actor” at both the Sumathi Awards and Raigam Tele’es in 2023. These accolades reflect his commitment to his craft and his ability to connect with his audience on multiple levels.
Political Career
Premarathna transitioned into politics in 2020 when he ran as a candidate for the Anuradhapura District with the Jathika Nidahas Peramuna, part of the Sri Lanka People’s Freedom Alliance. Winning with a majority of 133,550 preferential votes, he took office as a Member of Parliament on August 20, 2020, representing the Anuradhapura District. His political affiliations have evolved, and since 2022, he has been associated with the Supreme Lanka Coalition, reflecting his evolving vision for the country and his commitment to serving the people.
During his tenure in Parliament, Premarathna was known for his dedication to social issues and his advocacy for the people of his district. Despite stepping down from his parliamentary seat on February 27, 2024, he has remained active in political discussions and is reportedly seeking political asylum in Canada. This decision came after an attempted assassination in 2023, a harrowing experience that underscored the challenges and risks faced by public figures in Sri Lanka. Although the motives remain speculative, his departure has been attributed to his focus on ensuring his family’s safety.
Personal Life
Uddika Premarathna is married to Anusha Kumari Pannala, and they share a son, Angsh Prachien, who was born on April 24, 2013. His personal life, while private, reflects his dedication to his family and his commitment to creating a better future for them. Despite the pressures of a public career, Premarathna has managed to balance his professional and personal responsibilities, becoming a role model for many.
Recent Projects and the Ape Maga Foundation
In addition to his acting and political pursuits, Premarathna has been involved in organizing drama and performance workshops. In August 2020, he led a series of workshops through the Ape Maga Foundation, focusing on drama education in Anuradhapura. These workshops provided aspiring actors with insights into the industry, further solidifying his dedication to nurturing future talent and giving back to the community.
Notable Works and Impact
Premarathna’s influence extends beyond cinema and politics. His performances in films like Samanala Sandhawaniya, Maharaja Gemunu, and Rush have left a lasting impression on Sri Lankan audiences, while his commitment to his district has garnered him respect in the political sphere. His website, uddikapremarathna.com, provides more information about his journey and ongoing projects.
In conclusion, Uddika Premarathna remains a prominent figure in Sri Lankan culture, celebrated for his achievements in acting, singing, and politics. His legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and versatility, serving as an inspiration for aspiring actors and politicians alike. Whether on the screen or in Parliament, Premarathna’s contributions will be remembered for their impact on Sri Lankan society.
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