H.D. Premaratne: A Long-Lasting Legacy in Sri Lankan Cinema – By Dr. Gamini Kariyawasam
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H.D. Premaratne, also known as Hapuarachchi Don Premaratne, will be remembered for his remarkable contributions to Sri Lankan cinema, even as we mark 19 years since his passing on December 26, 2024.
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Premaratne and I were classmates at Kelaniya Gurukula Vidyalaya. This note is not merely an homage to a school friend but a tribute to his outstanding impact on Sri Lankan cinema. Gurukula Vidyalaya has been a nurturing ground for notable artists, including Malani Fonseka, Wimal Kumara de Costa, Pathiraja Dayananda, and Donald Karunaratne, who were contemporaries of Premaratne.
Premaratne was an artist who smiled through tears. Born on January 27, 1944, in Telagapatha Village, Wattala, he was the son of H.D. Elosingho and W.K. Madeline. After completing his education at Gurukula Vidyalaya, he pursued higher studies at Maradana Sri Lanka Vidyalaya.
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The Journey Begins
Childhood
His wedding
His Family
Premaratne entered the arts scene in 1965 as a dialogue writer for the stage play Yakage Kammala, staged at the Lumbini Theatre. His first venture into cinema came in 1966 when he worked as a clapper boy for the film Daru Dukha. Before directing films, he gained valuable experience as an assistant director for Pujithayo.
In 1975, his debut film Sikuruliya marked a significant milestone in Sri Lankan cinema. Premaratne wrote the story, dialogue, screenplay, and directed the film, showcasing his multifaceted talent. The film’s characters, inspired by the Ummagga Jataka, demonstrated his creative ingenuity.
Giving an interpretation, Prem Sikuruliya composed the script. Here, Prem’s creative skill is revealed by using him in the main roles of Vijaya and Suvinita in the role of an unusually short person, Bandula Galagedara as Kala Gola.
Sikuruliya Theme Song
A Masterful Storyteller
H.D. Premaratne was celebrated for his ability to achieve commercial success while preserving artistic value and delivering meaningful messages to society. Critics often praised his films for striking a balance between artistic integrity and mass appeal.
Following Sikuruliya, he directed several acclaimed films, including Aishchaya, Sasaraka Pathum, Hasthi Viaruwa, Deweni Gamana, Adara Hasuna, Mangala Thagga, and Saharawe Sihinaya. His 1981 film Parithyagaya earned him the Best Screenwriter award at the OCIC Festival.
Song of Deveni Gamana film
Song from film Mangala Thagga
His subsequent works, such as Palama Yata, Kulageya, Saptha Kanya, Seilama, and Visidala, reflected the depth of a seasoned filmmaker
Song of Film Apeksha
These films earned him numerous accolades, including the Sarasavi, President’s, and OCIC Awards. Many of his works were featured at international film festivals in Tashkent, Hawaii, Cairo, Manila, Singapore, India, and Japan.
In 1993, Premaratne received the Sarasavi Award for Best Director for Kulageya and the President’s Award for Best Screenplay for Saptha Kanya. In 1996, he was honored with the Sarasavi Award for Best Screenwriter for Seilama. His film Visidala, restricted to adult audiences, remains a highly regarded work among fans.
Film Kulageya
Song of Saptha Kanya Film
Song of Visidala
A Legacy Beyond Cinema
In addition to his achievements in cinema, Premaratne excelled as a television director, with memorable dramas such as Sandungira Fires, Sihina Danauva, and Dulari.
film events
Over a career spanning four decades, Premaratne directed 18 films, each resonating with audiences and opening new thematic avenues. His works subtly explored social issues, solidifying his status as a beacon of Sri Lankan cinema.
As we commemorate 19 years since his passing, we remember H.D. Premaratne as a pillar of light in the history of Sri Lankan cinema. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Special thanks to Rekha Dilani, Premaratne’s daughter, and his brother Sunil, for providing photographs for this article.
Dr. Gamini Kariyawasam
Email: gaminee@gmail.com
