Sri Lankan women have long been known for their combination of beauty and brains and it seems the world is now taking note of our local beauties.
Not one, but two of our beauty queens brought pride and glory to the island recently; Miss International Sri Lanka, Madusha Mayadunne and Miss Bride of the World Sri Lanka, Aruni Rajapakse, both won the 2nd runner up positions in their respective pageants concluded in Japan recently.
Speaking at a media event, National Director in Sri Lanka for Miss Universe, Rosita Wickremesinghe said, “I’m really proud of what they have both achieved. We can only give them this opportunity to shine; it is up to them to move forward. Conducting a pageant is very tough and we are hoping the private sector will support us more in the coming pageants. We look forward to seeing more entries in the future due to their win.
We are hopeful that our pageants will take off similarly to the way India’s did a few years ago.”
Both winners have busy schedules lined up ahead of them but we will certainly be seeing more of them as they take up their official duties in the coming months.
Madusha Mayadunne
2nd runner up, Miss International
She secured the hearts of many with her charismatic personality and striking beauty in Sri Lanka and continued to do so while competing in Okinawa, Japan, at the Miss International 2012 pageant. It came as no surprise to many here when Madusha made it through to 2nd runner up and picked up the award for Ambassador of Beauty along the way; having spent countless hours training hard for the pageant, including learning a little Japanese so she could present herself appropriately.
Speaking about her experience in Okinawa, she said although there was a jam-packed schedule leading up to the finale, from attending forums and social studies to taking part in talent shows and workshops, she enjoyed it tremendously and gained a lot of knowledge.
After winning her title, the celebrations continued with official visits around Japan, along with a dinner at the Sri Lankan ambassador in Japan’s house; where she delighted in sharing her home cuisine with the other winners.
Not content with having already won such a prestigious title, Madusha says she is eager to bring Sri Lanka to the forefront in any way she can.
Aruni Rajapakse
2nd runner up, Miss Bride of the World
Undoubtedly one of the most well-known faces in Colombo, former Miss Universe Sri Lanka, model and actress, Aruni Rajapakse was handpicked by Rosita herself to wow the crowds and judges with her poise and charm, and she did just that, winning the 2nd runner up in this new pageant.
The Bride of the World pageant is aimed at promoting Asian family values, marriage, motherhood, career and respect for elders. In its 3rd year now, the pageant is open to young women hoping to be brides and mothers someday.
Speaking about the pageant, Aruni said, “I thank everyone who’s supported me throughout the pageant. I’m very proud and happy to have taken part in it. It was very hectic, I even tore a ligament in my foot and was told to bed rest for a couple of days, but I chose to push through and attend rehearsals instead, and I’m glad I did. It is a blessing”
Text by Lake Argent
Pics by Pradeep Dilrukshana
0 Comments
Faqi says:
Nov 16, 2012 at 05:29 pmCongratulations are in order to these two young ladies, for the converted positions they attained at these competitions.
patriot says:
Nov 18, 2012 at 05:18 pmCogratulations! But please protect yourself from wild animals in Sri Lanka.
Sadun says:
Nov 19, 2012 at 04:09 amCongratulations to the two ladies!
Pointer says:
Nov 21, 2012 at 08:48 amFaqi, pray tell what the position had been converted to or from.
Rabin says:
Nov 21, 2012 at 02:13 pmMy question is who will be the lucky guys?
the Miz says:
Nov 22, 2012 at 06:55 amwill the bride of the world have the honeymoon with the world :)
janaka says:
Nov 24, 2012 at 02:41 pmTake care from Namal and Duminnda they will be after you. Good Luck. a98vx