Chandra bids farewell

Veteran actress Chandra Kaluarachchi who made significant contributions to Sri Lankan arts, as a theatre, film and television actress, bade farewell to the nation yesterday. Chandra Kankanamge Kaluarachchi who was born on April 6, 1943, passed away last Friday at the age of 76. Her funeral took place yesterday amidst a large gathering.

She was married to well known musician Lakshman Wijesekara and was the mother of Ama Wijesekara.

Chandra Kaluarachchi made her acting debut in Raththaran Putha Heiyanmaru’ by Arnold Wickramasuriya in 1962 and before long she was one of the most sought after character actresses in the country. She acted in popular plays like Bakmaha Deege, Wahalak Nethi Geyak,  Ammai Appai, Ibi Katta, Umathusang Warusawa, Rata Barai Numbata Puthe, Ahasin Watunu Minissu, Hunuwataye Kathawa, Kelani Palama, Maya Devi and several others.

Chandra who won several awards for her acting prowess, started her film career with GDL Perera’s ‘Dahasak Sithuwili’ in 1968 and followed it up with movies like Mokada Wune, Romeo Juliet, Bakmaha Deege, Sidadiyen Hayak, Thung Mang Handiya, Welikathara, Nidhanaya, Gehenu Lamai and others.

text: Ramesh

Chandra who won several awards for acting prowess, started her film career with GDL Perera’s ‘Dahasak Sithuwili’ in 1968 and followed it up with other movies