Sri Lankan Cinema Icon Malini Fonseka Dies at 78

Malini Fonseka, widely recognized as the 'Queen of Sri Lankan Cinema,' passed away at the age of 78 while receiving treatment in Colombo. Her career spanned over five decades, during which she acted in more than 140 films, television dramas, and stage productions, earning numerous national and international awards and acclaim. Fonseka's filmography includes iconic works such as Nidhanaya, Thushara, and Eya Dan Loku Lamayek, and she was lauded for portraying a wide range of complex characters that resonated deeply with audiences. Beyond her artistic achievements, she served as a Member of Parliament from 2010 to 2015, contributing to public service and cultural leadership. Her legacy as a pioneering female figure in a male-dominated industry inspired generations of artists and audiences alike. The Sri Lankan government has announced that her remains will lie in state with final rites held with state honors, marking the end of a luminous era in the nation's cinema.