Dancing had been her forte since her schooldays at Gothami Balika Vidyalaya, Colombo, but today she is better known in the country for her acting prowess on stage, films and tele dramas.

Having studied dancing here and in India, she even conducted dancing classes for a considerable period. She is none other than talented actress Nilmini Buwaneka.

You started performing from your schooldays?

Yes, I performed while studying at Gothami Balika. In 1980 I made my public show debut in Dharmasiri Bandaranayake’s ‘Makarakshaya’. I have so far acted in several stage plays including Bernadage Sipirigeya, Dasa Mallika Bangalwa, Devadasi, Trojan Kanthawo, Thatu and the English play Death of a Salesman.

Your entry to the small screen?

My first tele drama was Donald Karunaratne’s Sithumina. I have so far acted in about 40 tele dramas including Sudheera, Alupata Heena and Sihinapuraya which are being telecast now. Film-wise I have acted in Boradiya Pokuna, Ekamath Eka Rateka and Sam’s Story.

Your views about mega tele dramas?

I believe that the television audience should get a fair share which they are not getting now. The tele industry is a place where professionals indulge but today people who have no knowledge and expertise engage in tele creations which lack professionalism and thus producing poor quality tele dramas.  This is my personal view.

Are you content as a professional actress?

Of course. I have grasped a lot of experience in my career spanning over three decades. However the chances we get to prove our talents further are very much limited. I am longing to play a role which can showcase my dancing abilities.

If you compare the situation in this field then and now?

The quality in stage and tele dramas was of high quality then and the people involved in it were also so committed and dedicated to their work. With the competitiveness in the field today, this situation has changed a lot. Though the stage still provides us the satisfaction, it cannot help with our living. So we are forced to seek solace through tele dramas for financial reasons.

How far have you studied dancing?

I learnt Bharatha from Miss Kamala and later did the Visharada exam in Bharatha Natyam in India. After I returned to Sri Lanka I conducted dancing classes but now I cannot find time for it. I however perform at special shows.

Awards?

I won the State drama best actress award for my role in Dasa Mallikage Bangalawa and later the best supporting actress Sumathi award for Sudheera. I have also won a youth award for a short play.

Hobbies?

Watching good movies with my son Diyanath Marasinghe who is doing his ALs this year, engaging in yoga exercise and reading. My biggest dream is to guide my son to lead a successful life.

I am grateful to my mother, Dharmasiri Bandaranayake, Anoja Weerasinghe and Swarna Mallawarachchi.

By Vasantha Wimalasinghe