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BUDDHADASA VITHANARACHCHI Actor of repute ,a true icon in mass media, electronic, radio, television, – By Sunil Thenabadu
Buddhadasa Vitharanarachchi is known to many as Buddhi the well renowned illustrious actor on stage, teledrama and films cum a daring broadcaster who had emerged triumphantly often in his own inimitable style having remedied numerous flaws in the television broadcasting patterns that existed before his arrival to the arena .To many, details of Buddhi in his influence to the stage mini screen and cinema are well known but details of his ancestral Kegalle village, his education, his contribution to the mass media are very much less known.
Though Buddhi is not a member of any political party having used his franchise at all elections for well over sixty years since he was eighteen years old has had all times poised to select to vote a specific party after reading the election manifestos of all parties carefully before casting his vote. However out of all parties he was mostly bent to the policies
of Rohana Wijeweera and Shakthi revolutionary movements, which was basically for equality among all, though was of the assessment that such a party would never emerge as people are immensely selfish preferring to live extremely lavish lives with supreme comforts, enormous distinct discriminations within all humanities.
of Rohana Wijeweera and Shakthi revolutionary movements, which was basically for equality among all, though was of the assessment that such a party would never emerge as people are immensely selfish preferring to live extremely lavish lives with supreme comforts, enormous distinct discriminations within all humanities.
It is his firm acceptance that even via a radical scuffle, victory could never be achieved as all governments are now equipped with adequate power to defend and defy any magnitude of hostility and resentment. Buddhi as renowned to his associates more familiarly has excelled in many crafts and skills possessing a vast knowledge in mass media, acting arena and in the leftish movement with an unmatched flexible personality having had close relationships with countless number of Presidents, Prime Ministers, cabinet ministers etc. He was born in the mid 20th century before gaining independence from the British regime on 30th June 1947, in his ancestral Kegalle as the eldest of six siblings three younger brothers are all deceased, while two younger sisters are married are living. During which time there was no electricity in many parts of the island, the roads were not developed with an embryonic transport network, but people were unpretentious, humble living in an undeveloped urban area, but villages were less developed than now.Buddhi will turns an Octogenarian next June is a strict vegetarian never even consume eggs but is very particular in keeping fit go to bed early by 9 pm get up early morning by 3 am takes a walk around 5 am which he believes exercises is very indispensable as entertainment for all individuals, devoid of stress, abstain from liquor, follows the precepts of Lord Buddha to meticulousness though not addicted to any religion .Owing to the above qualities adept Buddhi remains always attracted to society,
In his adjoining village lived D.S.Senanayake who fought for our independence while his son Dudley Senanayake was a resident in the Dedigama seat. It was then historically and politically well renowned. Kegalle was traditionally called as located in “Sathara Korale’ was significant historically, archeologically crammed with immense cultural rituals and treasured values which were all drenched immensely within. Most people think that Kandy’s demarcation originates from Kadugannawa but Buddhi had disclosed, it is not so, confirmed it is from Warakapola, Dummaladeniya borderline from which point the upcountry Kingdom is demarcated.The whole area of is said to consist soil predominantly damp ideal for fostering agriculture. Buddhi’s village in Kegalle belonged to the Dedigama electoral division. He reminisced though King Maha Parakramabahu reigned Polonnaruwa, he had been born in Kegalle area. Buddhi evoked that when the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Kingdoms collapsed
people had journeyed extensively to Kegalle area which thus became densely inhabited. This had made the ‘Sathara Korale’ to be saturated with numerous talents like dancing and other cultural traditions. It was reminisced by Buddhi that stalwarts like celebrated upcountry dancers Pani Bharatha, Ranganatha, Budawatte, also members of “Angampura Satan Kalawa’, too had originated from ‘Sathara Korale”.
people had journeyed extensively to Kegalle area which thus became densely inhabited. This had made the ‘Sathara Korale’ to be saturated with numerous talents like dancing and other cultural traditions. It was reminisced by Buddhi that stalwarts like celebrated upcountry dancers Pani Bharatha, Ranganatha, Budawatte, also members of “Angampura Satan Kalawa’, too had originated from ‘Sathara Korale”.
Even the valiant hero Keppetipola had been born ‘Sathara Korale”, the logo of the flag of the Republic of Sri Lanka had been designed by one Seneviratne born in Kegalle. In the traditional Kandy perahera the log on the flag which precedes the procession contains ‘Ira Handa’ logo was designed by a member of ‘Sathara Korala’. These Buddhi made emphasis on the vast historical, archaeological and cultural importance of ‘Sathara korale’, where he and many were fortunate to be born possessing unprecedented tall elevations to so many artistic ethics. These morals, principles Buddhi attributed immensely for the child-development base for him, for that matter to any child growing up. His first school was in the village, Galapitamada Vidyalaya earlier called Walagamba Vidyalaya at which school a 2nd class a student had hit him on the head with a chair, which had prompted his mother to admit him to another village junior mixed school possessing only a solitary building, at the far end of village two miles further away to which he had to walk, which was in the 1950 decade , the school has had no basic facilities. At school no student wore even slippers barring shoes as in his previous school.
His father during world wars had been mobilized in foreign countries, hence not as a fashion had made him wear shoes and a hat as worn by the counterparts in European countries. This Buddhi now feels was not a familiarity that had to be followed then. All students had to partake in agricultural work to find ‘cow dung’, soil etc., which young Buddhi too had to perform sporting the additional attires, shoes and the hat. It was revealed by him now, that some students were used to harass him by trampling his shoes. After a few years He was sent to St.Mary’s College in Kegalle town as the parents demanded him to be a lawyer though he was not at all interested, as for the reason that many lawyers in Kegalle had been educated at St.Mary’s College. The administrators at St.Mary’s College had been Italian Christian Fathers. Under their strict guidance had guided all as to how to adopt to European culture, learnt to work to time, cleanliness, behaviour, conduct etc. It is from the school Buddhi had learned all virtues not realized in village schools. Initially he had been a cub before becoming a scout thereafter had been a junior and thereafter a senior cadet. These Buddhi had attributed to the gradual development of his personality and character. In addition had participated in stage plays becoming the best actor in year 1964 in the all island schools cultural competition. Also had been adjudicated as the best presenter, best speaker, also as the best lyricist and ‘Kaviya’. These triumphs of Buddhi were attributed exclusively to the tutorial staff headed by scholar EMG Edirisinghe, a critic and author who was the Sinhala ‘guru’ taught the Sinhalese vernacular with other several others. knowledgeable teachers.
There had been a practice then, the undergraduates taught students pending their finals results. They had taught young socialist leftist views too but advising not to be too radical in approaches. In addition, Buddhi had been in the debating team, also the college musical band as prominent members. When questioned in a television dialog how he got acquainted with leftish ideas, the answer he reminisced as, during his young school days when the less privileged students from
villages had trampled his shoes and also uttered “Handuruwa Koduruwo Ape Ehe Kaba Kanno” at which era there had existed a distinct division in society. He had realized why people are vivid some are rich some poor, who live differently, eating, dress habits, dwellings, living habits etc. When young when inquiries were made he was told that it was ‘Karma’ that had made these deviations. However it was his master EMG Edirisinghe had explained how the different classes of people evolved had taught this, as there are different tribes, a social division in a traditional society consisting of communities linked by social, economies, religious or blood ties with a common culture and vernacular, typically having a recognized leader. Hence some learned to be intellectuals’ others will have to work for lower salaries, but each had to be employed to earn a salary for his living. which every citizen needed to earn for his living. After which Buddhi had got the feeling to change this viewpoint in the society for everyone to live in the identical manner with similar type dwellings, food, luxury items, clothes etc., essentially in a fantasy world. In year 1967 Buddhi had come to Colombo was sent to Jaffna for his first appointment having received a transfer from his work place National Lotteries Board where his had worked for three years until 1970.
villages had trampled his shoes and also uttered “Handuruwa Koduruwo Ape Ehe Kaba Kanno” at which era there had existed a distinct division in society. He had realized why people are vivid some are rich some poor, who live differently, eating, dress habits, dwellings, living habits etc. When young when inquiries were made he was told that it was ‘Karma’ that had made these deviations. However it was his master EMG Edirisinghe had explained how the different classes of people evolved had taught this, as there are different tribes, a social division in a traditional society consisting of communities linked by social, economies, religious or blood ties with a common culture and vernacular, typically having a recognized leader. Hence some learned to be intellectuals’ others will have to work for lower salaries, but each had to be employed to earn a salary for his living. which every citizen needed to earn for his living. After which Buddhi had got the feeling to change this viewpoint in the society for everyone to live in the identical manner with similar type dwellings, food, luxury items, clothes etc., essentially in a fantasy world. In year 1967 Buddhi had come to Colombo was sent to Jaffna for his first appointment having received a transfer from his work place National Lotteries Board where his had worked for three years until 1970.
The Lotteries Board had been under the Minister of Finance Dr.N.M.Perera from 1970 to 1975 earlier had worked under Finance Minister U.B.Wanninayake. There had been a trade union of the communist party for the members of the staff who had appointed Buddhi as the general secretary. In addition he had been unanimously appointed as the general secretary of “Sevaka Upadeshaka Sabha” too which has had the provision to engage the workers collectively against the management authority. Hence for the dual roles he was dubbed as the ‘‘Maha Lekam” as he had leadership qualities too having the skill to articulate views on behalf of others rigidly and abruptly.
As he was the eldest in his family too ,he has had in himself the feeling he was the chief, Buddhi had proclaimed. When, he was confronted in leftish movements he realized that it was something that could not be accomplished and realized. Buddhi along with his colleagues had fought to receive an equivalent bonus to all, which Dr.N.M.Perera had not complied with. After been dismayed in not been able to achieve equal benefits to all he had resigned from all posts of Secretaries.
Thereafter he had become interested in ‘Nawa leftish’ movement headed by Rohana Wijeweera. At that time the head of the Lotteries Board Major Alex Nawaratne had got the feeling that for his radical work had suspected him of having connections with the ‘Che Guevara” movement which at that time he has had no rigid linking. From year 1970 to year 1977 Buddhi was responsible as the solitary announcer at all Lotteries board events held in all parts of the island also proclaiming to the SLBC the ‘live’ results. This had given him the exceptional opportunity to alight on the same podium on which the Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike, cabinet ministers and other dignitaries partook. During this era the notion that Buddhi was a ‘Chen Guevara’ was totally evicted. When the insurrection period commenced in the late 1960’s as Buddhi was stationed in Jaffna though he knew of the struggle which precipitated owing to the uncertainties of several, not finding proper job opportunities despite having qualifications, he could not participate and contribute actively though he was following closely. During the subsequent years has had only appeared for the afflicted persons only, sans any conventional significance.
Buddhi had known very well that the principles of leftists were not practical to implement though the facts were a reality. After UNP under J.R.Jayewardena regime with a 5/6th majority had released Rohana Wijeweera from detention which made the JVP active again along with the general secretary Lionel Bopage. Buddhi had attended constantly to the meetings of Lionel Bopage where he had read the per capita book of Karl Marx translated. Buddhi had proclaimed lately that Bopage was his ‘Guru’, now a close friend a qualified engineer. He had joined with JVP’s ‘ Samajawadi Kala Sangamaya’ which helped the JVP in ‘art’ activities, having organized the “Vimukthi Gee’ which he himself presented which was patronized by record audiences, a highly successful musical extravaganza which ran to packed audiences. The theme of ‘Vimukthi Gee’ recital was there is only one cast, one race which is human race, unity among all communities, Velupillai Aiye mata sama veyan, Uthuru kone, Nadaraja Malliye, we are all citizens of this country irrespective of castes, religions, should live as just one human race, living only for short period , a voice for the voiceless etc. slogans. Consequently Nanda Maini, Sunil Ariyartane duo organized similar recitals like ‘Pavana’, ‘Saththiye Geethaya’ etc. After these concerts many thought the leftist struggle of the JVP will become triumphant. This was later attributed by Buddhi that, young folks then were very interested and concerned in changing the then life patterns. Thereafter some stage plays too were organized like “Milano Malak Nove” in connivance with slain Manamperi beauty queen, the main roles had been portrayed by Buddhi and his wife Sitha Lalani Hemapala.. This play was banned by the government which however was able to be staged only on the world’s women’s day at the Sugathadasa Indoor stadium prior to its upgrading. Buddhi at a television dialog had remarked that he needed to be an inspirational personality in all these instances. Buddhi had never been a member of any political party he had remarked.
Buddhi had known very well that a communist party would never be the ruling party. In the 1981 District Development Council election Colombo he had contested for a seat in the Maharagama DDC. In the Presidential election in year 1982 had canvassed for Rohana Wijeweera despite he was opposed to a giant in J.R.Jayewardena who had won the general election with a 5/6th majority. Unlike in other political parties to become a member of JVP is not easy by just filling a form he reminisced, but will have to serve the party in many areas for a considerable length of time then he has to be convinced to be passed by many panels after which only is accepted by the main committee after verifying the sacrifices made honestly and consistently. Buddhi despite been an active honest dedicated member had never been made a member even until 1987. Buddhi had cast his vote for over fifty five years since he was eighteen years old but never gone to ‘Kade” for anyone. In a more friendly quote he added that he goes to ‘Kade’ only to purchase food stuffs also emphasized those who are political stooges join the related parties for financial benefits, to emerge victorious in a tender, to get lucrative professions etc, Even today he casts his vote for the party with best policies and vision after studying the related election manifestos. Buddhi has never benefited with even a trivial favour from any politician or a political party even to date.
But to Buddhi it is Rohana Wijeweera’s policies coming from a deprived family background had suited him most, one who had even sacrificed his medical degree from Russia aside. Buddhi had placed him right at the top drawer when it comes to policies of all leaders. It was added though Lionel Bopage a qualified engineer many others members of the JVP are living respectfully in many business spheres but still follow the same concepts of Rohana Wijeweera having become rich only by authentic ways. Rohana Wijeweera then had said that he may not live for another twenty five years but predicted future earth slips advised to grow trees on all sides of hills to prevent soil erosion, which is happening often now. It was also added that all soils would wash down to the borders of rivers all advisers not adhered to date is the cause of so many disasters like landslides, loss of many lives and property. In his political memorandum he wanted every citizen to receive an army training not to fight wars but to be agile, learning discipline as an example it was during the recent covid-19 epidemic, it was the service personnel who came to the fore as they had the leadership, infrastructure facilities, force, knowledge to handle the critical situation.
In year 1987 during the Indo-Lanka accord several were jailed along with Buddhi for one and a half years for no charges sans even a judicial order only for the offence of expressing views. Buddhi was preparing himself to travel to Kataragama for ‘Gam Udawa’ lottery announcing when security forces had come to his residence at 3 am to arrest him. When asked the reason for his arrest the security personnel had said, we too do not know, even sans an arrest order. He had even served coffee to them
and proceeded. The following day he had to portray two roles in two stage plays which was a concern to him, the request to attend too had been turned down. From Borella police station he was taken to Talangama police station, by evening was taken to Magazine prison. In it Buddhi had been tough had told others not to sir the officers but address as ‘Mahattaya’. There is a strict rule when one is going out to loudly mention the number allotted to him. Buddhi had said to the officer you better take down the number, he had uttered, he was a person imprisoned for no offence. But later after an internal meeting, Buddhi was pleaded to follow the rules in the prison. Buddhi had been a member of ‘Sanwath Saba ‘ chosen by peoples’ vote before the LG elections came into been but that too did not become a criterion for him to get any favours. There were two hundred arrested along with him, without any offences. During the one and half year tenure in remand prison Buddhi had left with the detainees setting examples to the prison authorities. During this period, he had read many books even the Quran, Bible to enhance his familiarity. Whatever the inmate detainees requested was given like shampoos, soaps etc., but had to consume prison food. He and the rest had to remain somehow which had violated human rights and democracy.
and proceeded. The following day he had to portray two roles in two stage plays which was a concern to him, the request to attend too had been turned down. From Borella police station he was taken to Talangama police station, by evening was taken to Magazine prison. In it Buddhi had been tough had told others not to sir the officers but address as ‘Mahattaya’. There is a strict rule when one is going out to loudly mention the number allotted to him. Buddhi had said to the officer you better take down the number, he had uttered, he was a person imprisoned for no offence. But later after an internal meeting, Buddhi was pleaded to follow the rules in the prison. Buddhi had been a member of ‘Sanwath Saba ‘ chosen by peoples’ vote before the LG elections came into been but that too did not become a criterion for him to get any favours. There were two hundred arrested along with him, without any offences. During the one and half year tenure in remand prison Buddhi had left with the detainees setting examples to the prison authorities. During this period, he had read many books even the Quran, Bible to enhance his familiarity. Whatever the inmate detainees requested was given like shampoos, soaps etc., but had to consume prison food. He and the rest had to remain somehow which had violated human rights and democracy.
After some time had filed action to human rights commission where the leading lawyer Prins Gunasekera had appeared. The junior lawyer Abeypala had been assassinated for appearing for them, while Prins Gunasekera fled our shores to UK in order to escape assassination. After Buddhi reverted back to Colombo in year 1970 he has had one ambition to become a broadcaster, as he was well recognized in his school in that field though he disliked the profession the parents wanted him to be, a lawyer. Buddhi had affirmed that he did not want to be in the traditional professions like doctor, lawyer, engineer etc. Buddhi wanted to have a close dialog with the people, hence had rented out a room in Bambalapitiya so that he could travel to SLBC by boarding a CTB double decker paying a bus fare just cents five only..This was as there had been a rule then that all applicants should live within a radius of five miles , Before recruited to SLBC one must pass a voice test with competency in languages. For an advertisement for announcers one thousand two hundred had been called likes of Douglas Ranasinghe, Thilaka Ranasinghe, Tissa Abeysekera, Wally Nanayakkara etc., out of which only seventeen were selected including Buddhi. At the interview he had faced to Palitha Perera and Berty Galahitiyawa . At the interview one item was to make a live broadcast of the Kandy Perahera from the SLBC studios. Though he had been given three hours for commercial programs which he did not like as he was already undertaken the Lotteries board broadcast regularly. He had been offered educational service programs like ‘Yakupitiya’ under one Ms Gunaratne, the director then was HM Gunasekera who had inspired him, while the Drector General was Thevis Guruge. All stalwart heavyweights had been comfortable and contented with Buddhi ‘s broadcasting endeavours skill and aptitudes. There had been media men who could translate then and there English to Sinhalese like the editorials of the Ceylon Daily newspaper etc. as such the knowledge of English too was a criteria for those selected. The high standards then maintained were highly commended. The announcers were all famous and legendry like Karunaratne Abeysekera, Chitrananda Abeysekera, KDK Dharmawardena,Amarabandu Rupasinghe, Cyril Rajapaksa to whom still the present generation media personnel have not been able to match up. As the SLRC commenced operations Buddhi had passed the screen test to ascertain his eligibility in one’s portrait and speech. But he had been able to present programs only from year 1995 continuously for fifteen years, when Chandrasoma Vithanage the director of such talk shows, had sent him an invitation to present talk shows like the popular weekend programs as ‘Ayubown‘’ on Saturdays and Shanida Ayubowan’ .on Sundays which was predominately bent on entertainment , numerous discussions with personalities, political programs, ‘avurudu’ programs interviewing miscellaneous personalities including politicians, those in bordering villages during the ethnic war that persisted then , altogether Buddhi had presented around twenty three diverse programs a hectic task it had been then but Buddhi had performed to precision. Buddhi in a television dialogue conveyed that at that time he was ermitted to contact ovia the telephone any person including the head of state for which there were no barriers and obstacles….After the demise of Premakeerthi De Alwis and other broadcasters who after exit had left huge vacuums. At that period Vasanatha Raja was the Chairman of SLRC, who had come after overseas stints like in BBC. While serving in the state channel Buddhi had questioned very boldly and rigidly numerous politicians, heads of state, government officials. When questioned at the same discussions added he had familiarized with such bold qualities perhaps via hereditary affiliations from father an robust Army Officer.. Many were of the view that for his appointment at the SLRC, the President then Chandrika Bandaranaike for whom Buddhi had supported may have been the reason .Buddhi’s appointment was sans any political mileage but he could have achieved through the then minister of mass communication Dharmasiri Senanayake who hailed from his native village, was a close buddy too..
When Chandrika was the Chief Minister of Western Province Buddhi had got a pledge after having been subjected to misery during the 1978 to 1994 regime had been deprived of human rights, jailed for no offences, promised to stop repetition of such events which would never be tolerated. Hence under this pledge Buddhi had got courage for freedom to his daring utterings at a SLRC discussions with senior politicians and cabinet ministers. Once Buddhi had told Chandrika when she was the Chief Minister of Western Province, ’you look beautiful, will you stay simple like this when becoming the President too’. Chandrika had made a pledge, that she would not change from her pervious stance but she said cannot guarantee the same from others. The same question and answer Buddhi had cheekily cited in a live Rupavahini program. Buddhi has had amazing nerves in abundance by calling even cabinet ministers on issues, having been battered and bruised during the seventeen-year J.R.’s rule. Chandrika had lived up to her promise been flexible but had been found guilty of coming late often as a habit for meetings by which time Buddhi had commenced meetings until she arrived which was embarrassing for her, but of course Buddhi had welcomed her upon arrival late. Buddhi has had been in the habit of reading letters sent by viewers cheekily. He had said not to address cabinet Ministers as ‘Athi Garu’, ‘Ariyawa’ , ‘Janadipathi Uthumanan’ ,Sri Mathanan, attributing to the fact that it was the people who had voted for them to come to power. The new director general Vasantha Raja had agreed to this ,as internationally there are no titles like that, should be only President . Minister etc. only.. Unfortunately, Vasantha Raja was removed for suspecting that he was a supporter of the brutal tigers, also for organizing programs involving all communities ..But his wife was a Sinhalese, mother was a Sinhalese educated in a western country had come from the BBC. Once for praising Supreme Court judge Wigneswaran saying the Tamil language is a very old language, a FB comment on Buddhi had been made against him telling him to be an offspring of a Tamil gene, which Buddhi had attributed to as the typical mentality of our people. Another incident was reminisced by Buddhi, once a late Communist party Minister in Avissawela had objected for not telecasting his ‘Avurudu program’ live to Dew Gunasekera when Bandara Eheliyagoda was the program director. Once his live program was over Buddhi had added as he has taken a pledge from the President that for such blames or lapses will not be persuaded. Despite the pledge the Minister from Avissawela had blamed the crew of the SLRC. He also had said during canvassing times one who
had eaten ‘thosai’ with him from small boutiques. At that time the Director General had been Dew Gunasekera also of the labour party, though Buddhi had believed that he would be asked explanation but to his delight the DG had complemented him for his retaliation. When Chandrika had asked Dew Gunasekera about the incident, he had said it is now settled while Dharmasiri Senanayake had quipped, he is my country man knows him well to which Buddhi had added he is no
double game player’, talks straight sans ‘hanky banky’. Also in the television dialog the presenter had quipped for blaming a Minister for wearing full suit, tie and coat at a ceremony.
had eaten ‘thosai’ with him from small boutiques. At that time the Director General had been Dew Gunasekera also of the labour party, though Buddhi had believed that he would be asked explanation but to his delight the DG had complemented him for his retaliation. When Chandrika had asked Dew Gunasekera about the incident, he had said it is now settled while Dharmasiri Senanayake had quipped, he is my country man knows him well to which Buddhi had added he is no
double game player’, talks straight sans ‘hanky banky’. Also in the television dialog the presenter had quipped for blaming a Minister for wearing full suit, tie and coat at a ceremony.
The full suit was explained as it is designed for the Europeans’ attire sporting as they always challenged with cold climates. But to emulate them living in our country is stupid, even Iranians do not wear full suit. For our cultural Minister to wear full suit is foolish imitating Europeans. Once Vijitha Herath had gone to China sporting the full suit, after his awareness was made had
accepted Buddhi’s advice. Buddhi also emphasized that no Indian VIP sport the full suit, a good example Buddhi
quoted, is the attire of Rajive Gandhi., he and other Indian leaders never had worn full suit. The wearing of full
suit has been imitated by many of our ‘Deshapremi’ leaders too. Once after his disapproval on his way to the gym one guy had stopped him and said ‘you scolded by brother’, Buddhi had said ‘yes’ boldly, then at the Anuradhapura literary day event he had met the cultural minister and wife when asked had said you had told the whole country to hear. He too had stopped sporting the European suit thereafter.
accepted Buddhi’s advice. Buddhi also emphasized that no Indian VIP sport the full suit, a good example Buddhi
quoted, is the attire of Rajive Gandhi., he and other Indian leaders never had worn full suit. The wearing of full
suit has been imitated by many of our ‘Deshapremi’ leaders too. Once after his disapproval on his way to the gym one guy had stopped him and said ‘you scolded by brother’, Buddhi had said ‘yes’ boldly, then at the Anuradhapura literary day event he had met the cultural minister and wife when asked had said you had told the whole country to hear. He too had stopped sporting the European suit thereafter.
Buddhi added he had stopped a secretary to the President too and also to many others too. This policy he said not against the Europeans as if not for them we would not have been developed to this level. Buddhi compared our country before year 1815 and that to date which has improved tremendously to high altitudes in countless number of ways.
Buddhi was questioned by Janaka during the same discussion whether the current day media personnel could fill the void left behind by stalwarts like Premakeerthi de Alwis, Ravi John and Richard de Zoyza.The answer was there are many still talented personnel but with the increase of channels, competition with the monetary factor taking pride of place it is a rather difficult proposition.
He said certain channels had commenced with a bang saying they would focus on cultural values that too only at the beginning only regrettably had not prolonged. them Those in all administrations know this but to stay in contention in the market competitiveness, they need to deviate from their principles. Buddhi emphasized even in the present SLBC there are flaws like using English words in Sinhala programs. Once when Hudson Samarasinghe was chairman had informed of a flaw, in City FM , Torrington square Colombo 7, where Torrington square was mentioned in English, Buddhi had pointed out why not read ‘Kolomba Hatha’ too in English. Buddhi attributed
this to an inferiority complex among many presenters as without stating a word in English the presenter is simply not gratified. Even in the SLRC the presenter tells the address as SLRC Torrington square Colombo 7, to which in the Rupavahini channel itself Buddhi had said Torrington’s are now dead and gone, it is now termed as the ‘Nidahas Chathurastraya’. Once when Buddhi was walking to the SLRC had observed the name board of prestigious Bank of Ceylon in the vicinity of the Rupavahini had mentioned while on air saying that still the Torrington’s are kept in the laps of the bank. Within hours the name of the bank was changed to ‘Nidahas Chathurasraya.’ branch, the name boards were changed appropriately and the bank cheque books too changed within a month or so. These revised flaws should go down in the archives of history etched in gold, the current broadcasters should emulate such feats of Buddhi cheekily for our country to prosper in ethics.
this to an inferiority complex among many presenters as without stating a word in English the presenter is simply not gratified. Even in the SLRC the presenter tells the address as SLRC Torrington square Colombo 7, to which in the Rupavahini channel itself Buddhi had said Torrington’s are now dead and gone, it is now termed as the ‘Nidahas Chathurastraya’. Once when Buddhi was walking to the SLRC had observed the name board of prestigious Bank of Ceylon in the vicinity of the Rupavahini had mentioned while on air saying that still the Torrington’s are kept in the laps of the bank. Within hours the name of the bank was changed to ‘Nidahas Chathurasraya.’ branch, the name boards were changed appropriately and the bank cheque books too changed within a month or so. These revised flaws should go down in the archives of history etched in gold, the current broadcasters should emulate such feats of Buddhi cheekily for our country to prosper in ethics.
For his activities all had appreciated even the state had applauded him as he had made meticulous conclusions. The
Chairman of Rupavahini Corporation had given Buddhi the green light to point out all lapses fearlessly during which Buddhi could confront any politician or any prominent personality for which the nod of green light was given. While working in the SLRC .Buddhi had even criticized on the broken cups in their canteen. Once during a live program, a ‘fly’ had entered the studio when he mentioned it, a German foreigner at Hilton watching had quipped that is ‘live’ to a Rupavahini presenter
Chairman of Rupavahini Corporation had given Buddhi the green light to point out all lapses fearlessly during which Buddhi could confront any politician or any prominent personality for which the nod of green light was given. While working in the SLRC .Buddhi had even criticized on the broken cups in their canteen. Once during a live program, a ‘fly’ had entered the studio when he mentioned it, a German foreigner at Hilton watching had quipped that is ‘live’ to a Rupavahini presenter
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Buddhi adds that in print, television, radio media there have been fixed laid down stipulated guidelines, rules, regulations and procedures which the present generations need to maintain sans breaking them by lowering the prescribed standards. Buddhi reminisced that he is called upon to present the first lecture at the department of information a government institution as the first lecturer for media personnel, but at the end the participants had said when we perform them in their channels these rules cannot be implemented for which Buddhi adds that owing to monetary gains, the related marketing divisions do not permit to those adherences. The advice of Buddhi to all students was for them to understand at least what is correct and what is incorrect and erroneous. While schooling at St.Mary’s College Kegalle he had been boarded very close to the cinema halls Tarzan and Chaya to which all Sinhala films released were shown.Though Buddhi did not get addicted to watching films had to some extent had watched many Sinhala films had uttered that in 1962 after the film ‘Ranmuthuduwa’ was screened he had watched it on the first day itself still remembers the dialogues. Though his has had no intention to become an actor but was capable of reproducing any character impressively has had an imaginable power which is an essential ingredient for an actor which Buddhi had possessed in abundance.
Buddhi adds that in print, television, radio media there have been fixed laid down stipulated guidelines, rules, regulations and procedures which the present generations need to maintain sans breaking them by lowering the prescribed standards. Buddhi reminisced that he is called upon to present the first lecture at the department of information a government institution as the first lecturer for media personnel, but at the end the participants had said when we perform them in their channels these rules cannot be implemented for which Buddhi adds that owing to monetary gains, the related marketing divisions do not permit to those adherences. The advice of Buddhi to all students was for them to understand at least what is correct and what is incorrect and erroneous. While schooling at St.Mary’s College Kegalle he had been boarded very close to the cinema halls Tarzan and Chaya to which all Sinhala films released were shown.Though Buddhi did not get addicted to watching films had to some extent had watched many Sinhala films had uttered that in 1962 after the film ‘Ranmuthuduwa’ was screened he had watched it on the first day itself still remembers the dialogues. Though his has had no intention to become an actor but was capable of reproducing any character impressively has had an imaginable power which is an essential ingredient for an actor which Buddhi had possessed in abundance.
Buddhi had been an actor in his school days at St.Mary’s College Kegalle felt he had acting skills in himself, hence after returning to Colombo in year 1970 having this ‘fewer’ had entered Dhamma Jagoda’s acting school ‘first’ to be inaugurated in Sri Lanka at the ‘Kala Kendra Ranga Shilpa Shalikawa‘ at the Lionel Wendt Arts Centre.Those who taught were all heavyweights as Professor Sunanda Mahendra, Professor Sucharitha Gamlath,Dr.Ediriweera Sarathchandra, Henry Jayasena, Gamini Haththotuwa, Sugathapala Silva where all aspects of art, stage plays were imparted and taught. His colleagues were Ravindra Randeniya, Suminda Sirisena, Cyril Wickremage, Cleetus Mendis, Dharmasiri Bandaranayake, who apart from Suminda are still among the living. After training the first stage play portrayed was Dhamma Jagoda’s ‘Vesmunu” along with Ravindra Randeniya, Somalatha Subasinghe, Suminda Sirisena portrayed roles. In year 1974 the stage play “Thakshala Nadagama” somewhat like ‘Maname’ which was adjudicated as the best theatre production that year. Among those who portrayed roles only Buddhi is living now.. Granville Rodrigo, Chitra Kumari Yapa Bandara, Daya Alwis, Sirisena Suriyarachchi, Dhamma Jagoda unfortunately all are now deceased was quipped by Buddhi. He commenced his film career with ‘Veera Puran Appu’ back in 1978, directed by Lester James Peries to portray a minor role along with Cleetus Mendia and Dharmasiri Bandaranayake, the main role of ‘Puran Appu ; was portrayed by Ravindra Randeniya ,all were selected from those who were in the Lionel Wendt Shilpa Shalikawa group..Buddhi had been very elated to have portrayed even a minor role under the gigantic film director Lester James Peiris..this was the first instance Buddhi had faced to a camera. His most popular cinema acting had come through film of Jayantha Chandrasiri’s ‘Agnidahaya’, had portrayed the role of a village merchant named Herath Mudiyanselage ,,subsequently ‘Sri Siddhartha Gautama’ and ‘Aloko Udapadi’. Buddhi recollected that subsequently he had portrayed roles under directors Asoka Handagama,Vasantha Obeysekera, Prasanna Vithanage and Buddhi Keerthisena under whose direction had portrayed a role of a Buddhist Monk adding another cap to his already decorated cap. After Buddhi had settled down in Melbourne with his family in year 2018 a Sri Lankan resident in Melbourne Chalaka Ranasinghe with immense previous experience in this field had invited Buddhi to perform the lead role portrayal of ‘Jaye’ in his film ‘Shadow” under his direction , the story was on love and affection across times, with a cast including Vasantha Wittachchi, Nayanathara Wickremarachchi etc was shown in Sri Lanka and Australia to packed houses.
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Buddhi had affirmed that it was Dhamma Jagoda who singlehandedly groomed him as a stage actor. Thereafter had portrayed roles in Dharmasiri Bandaranayake’s ‘Maka Rakshaya’, “Yaksha Gamanaya”. Then in Bandula Vithanage’s ‘Hiru Dahasa” portraying the main role at which was adjudicated as the best drama in which Yashoda Wimaladharma was named the best actress in the early 1990’s.In Dhamma Jagoda’s teledrama ‘Mihikathage Daruwa” Buddhi had portrayed only a trivial role. As he was involved in SLBC, SLRC work was branded as a political stooge though obviously not hence was not given many opportunities. In this particular teledrama “Mihikathage Daruwa” it was
even asked to remove his portrayed parts. He had been requested to bring a letter from a reputed politician that he is not involved in pity partisan politics for which buddhi had brought a letter of recommendation from Minister Ronnie de Mel.
even asked to remove his portrayed parts. He had been requested to bring a letter from a reputed politician that he is not involved in pity partisan politics for which buddhi had brought a letter of recommendation from Minister Ronnie de Mel.
Buddhi had commended Jayantha Chandrasiri for grooming him as an actor for which he is ever grateful for his portrayal voyage in Teledramas. Buddhi was taken initially for the ‘Vesmunu’ teledrama for the last seen where he acted for an adulterer (“Sallalaya”) who was hurting girls giving untruthful promises. In a lighter vein Buddhi had asked Jayantha Chandrasiri ‘do I look a ‘Sallalaya”, to which replied ‘no no’ you looks a wealthy guy as they are those who mislead women.’
Also, as Buddhi was involved in teledrama field having won an award for the best actor, at the first Sumathi Awards ceremony in year 1995 for his main role portrayal of Sethupala Gurunnanse in “Dandubasnamanaya’’ directed by genius Jayantha Chandrasiri a story of the year 1910 in which for the audiences to know the attires were of those in such era. Thereafter in ‘Akale Sandya” portraying the role of Mahasohona, based on a story of yesteryear, then ‘Sathara Denek Senpathiyo’ likewise had portrayed many roles in Jayantha Chandrasiri’s creative teledramas. Other teledrama that strikes one’s mind are Akala Sandya, Arungal, Bharyawo, Bonda Meedum, Chandi Kumarihami Dambulugala Sakmana, Dandubasna Manaya,Ganga Addara Gini Avi Saha Gini Keli Giri Shikara Meda Handapana Indikadolla Isi Dasuna, Jayathuru Sankaya Karuwala Gedara, Kunchanadha , Mahathala Hatana, Makara Dadayama Manokayaaunayagaya Nannaththara Parasathu Mal,Ran Damwel, Rejina, Sadisi Tharanaya, Sakuge Kathawa, Sakuge Lokaya, Sakviththo Sanda Gomman Re Sarisara Lihini Satharadenek Senpathiyo Sihina Wasanthayak, Sepalika, Thisara Peraliya, Verona, Vimansa, Wasuli Kanda,Yaddehi Gedara ,Nannaththara of Jayantha Chandrasiri’s was his last teledrama, Buddhi had portrayed roles in Radio Plays too as Theruwan Saranai, and Nirabhisheka displaying his skills in them too in his inimitable manner..
The films in which Buddhi had portrayed roles were: Veera Puran Appu, Guru Gedera, Maruthaya, Anantha Rathriya, Sihina Deshayen, Channa Kinnari, Dorakada Marawa, Agnidahaya, Sudu Kaluwara, Sulang kirilli, Guerilla Marketing, Samaara, Wijaya Kuweni,Sri Siddhartha Gautama. Samanala Santhawaraya,Ahelepola Kumarihamy,Parapura, Maharaja
Gemunu, Premaye Nam, Aloka Udapadi, Seema Nehe Akase, Nidahase Piya DS, Kawuruth Danne Nehe etc some are yet to be released. Buddhi is married to his long-time partner Sitha Lalani Hemamala, postgraduate who possess a Masters Degree in Nursing from the University of British Columbia, Canada Sitha began her career as a Staff Nurse and retired as Head of the Department of Nursing at the Open University of Sri Lanka. Later she worked as the Head of Nursing at Katsu International, a private university in Sri Lanka. The duo has two daughters: Priyanwada, Sulochana and a son, Siddhartha. His youngest daughter, Sulochana had acted in few stage plays, teledramas and worked as a TV presenter in Sri Lanka. His son had worked as a producer for the Rupavahini Corporation. Priyanwada is married to Rukman, Sulochana is married to Udaya and Siddhartha is married to Kanchana. All are now citizens of Australia. Before the Presidential election in September 2014 Buddhi had travelled to Sri Lanka to support the NPP, in particular for the anticipated victory of Anura Kumara Dissanayake spending around four hundred thousand rupees .Buddhi had taken a firm decision to support the NPP as he had studied carefully the pattern all previous governments had performed from the time of Prime Minister Dudley Senanayake.He has added Anura Kumara Dissanayake is the only President elect who could be called as ‘Anura Sahodaraya’ as he a representative of the common man son of a survey labourer’s son from rural Thambuttegama. Anura had preached that he does politics to give a better life to the people majority of who are like scroungers in poverty. Buddhi and all NPP factions are filled with similar etiquettes.Buddhi recollected how the poor people have suffered during the past rules of seventy six years
All family members of Buddhi are now domiciled in Melbourne who were joined by Buddhi recently living with son’s family with his wife but returned to Sri Lanka to complete acting contracts already undertaken. While concluding in a television dialogue had , Buddhi said he has so many invitations for teledramas and films, that although he is fit to undertake he had refused to accept. He added that in other countries even in CNN. BBC programs it is the mature media personnel even aged over seventies present programs. For children’s programs it is not teenage girls who present them there again it is elderly media personnel who broadcast. He admitted that though he is in the seventies he could still perform what a thirty seven years old could perform.
After competing all his contracted portrayals Buddhi has returned to Melbourne to join his family, is involved writing his autobiography. The secret for his success is to possess an upright heart, valuing and appreciating others, wishing others from heart, sans any jealousy, love all living beings, live lightly then automatically god offers good health and longevity. Buddhi is a staunch Buddhist cum vegetarian not only refraining from eating fish, meat but also do not consume milk, cake, curd, butter, cheese, sweets even like jujubes etc, an individual to be imitated. In the context of the foregoing Buddhi Vithanarachchi should go down in the annals of archives as a legend having conquered many areas of art triumphantly. All his followers would wish him good health and longevity for his impending life.
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Sunil Thenabadu in Brisbaneemail sthenabadu@hotmail.com,
WhatsApp 0061444533242
