Renowned Sri Lankan actor Amarasiri Kalansuriya has sadly passed away at the age of 82. The actor, popularly known as Kalan, was well-known for his outstanding performances in Sri Lankan cinema, theatre and television.
Kalan made his film debut alongside Vijaya Kumaratunga in the movie Hanthana Kathawa. He then went on to receive the Best Actor Award in 1974 for his exceptional performance in the movie Ahas Gauwa.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Sri Lankan film industry, Kalansuriya was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Derana Lux Film Awards in 2019.
Kalan was a versatile actor who played a variety of roles in notable films such as Ahas Gawwa, Akkara Paha, and Nimwalalla. He also starred in Apeksha in 1978, at the invitation of H. D. Premaratne. Kalan received numerous awards for his role in Parithyagaya, which was his second film after a hiatus.
Kalan’s talent as an actor was recognized by the Presidential Award, where he won Best Supporting Actor for Puja in 1986. He also delivered memorable performances in films such as Tharangā, Bambaru Avith, Anūpamā, Poḍi Mallī, Kānchanā, Sinhabāhu, Vajirā, Sakvithi Suvaya, Yasa Isuru, Doringē Sayanaya, Poḍi Wijē, Ahas Māḷigā, and Sāgarayak Mæda.
The Sri Lankan film industry has lost a great actor and his contributions will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Amarasiri Kalansuriya.