In today’s spotlight of The Sunday Morning Little Stars is Vishma Janodya, a 13-year-old from Homagama. He’s amazing at two things: magic and cricket. Vishma started doing magic when he was just nine, learning from his magician dad.
He’s not just about magic. Since he was in Grade 6, Vishma has been playing cricket too. Vishama shares his magic tricks on YouTube, and one of his videos has the most views of any Sri Lankan young magician.
Can you tell us about yourself?
I’m Vishma Janodya. I’m 13 years old and I live in Homagama. I go to Homagama Central School and I’m in Grade 8. I have an older sister, and at home it’s me, my mom, dad, and my grandmother. I really enjoy magic and playing cricket. I’m actually the youngest magician in Sri Lanka to win an award.
Oh, and I love having pets. I have birds like cockatiels and doves, and I also have two dogs.
When did you start performing magic?
I started performing magic when I was just 9 years old. My biggest inspiration is my father, Samantha Pradeep, who is also a magician. He showed me the wonders of magic, and I have been interested ever since.
My journey began with small performances and I even appeared on Charana TV. Later on, I participated in the Sirasa TV ‘Superhero’ programme and made it to the final 24th round, which was an incredible experience for me.
Who is responsible for training you in magic?
My father plays a big role in training me in magic and I have had the privilege of learning from experienced magic teachers like Emil Eranga and Sanjeewa Hewapathirana. They have all contributed to shaping my skills and understanding of magic.
What’s your favourite magic act to perform?
My favourite magic act is making animals appear and disappear. It’s something I really enjoy doing. Besides that, I’ve also mastered many classic magic acts over time, which I love performing as well.
In the future, I aim to practise more advanced forms of magic, such as illusions involving human bodies and making large objects like planes disappear.
Do you have a role model in magic?
Yes, my role model in magic is David Copperfield. One of his acts that really left an impression on me was when he made a train disappear. His skill and creativity inspired me greatly.
Have you participated in any magic competitions?
I’ve participated in several magic competitions. In 2022, I competed in the ‘Sri Lanka Magicians Association Championship’ and secured 2nd Place in the Junior category. During the pandemic, I took part in an online competition in Vietnam where I also achieved 2nd Place among contestants from various countries.
Furthermore, I was recognised as one of the ‘Best 100 Children in Sri Lanka’ by the Sri Lankan Future Leaders event organised by Ahasa Media.
What’s your ultimate ambition in magic?
My ambition in magic is to become one of the best magicians in the world. I aspire to reach a level where when people see me perform, they consider me as one of the greatest magicians ever.
How long have you been playing cricket?
I’ve been playing cricket since I was in Grade 6, so for a few years now. I consider myself an all-rounder, meaning I contribute both with batting and bowling. I play cricket for my school team and I’m also part of some clubs.
Who is coaching you in cricket?
At school, Athula Akaravita guides me in honing my skills. Additionally, I receive coaching from Tharindu Roshan at the Lions Cricket Academy, Duminda Gunasekara at the Kingfisher Cricket Academy, and Sagara Paranawithana.
Moreover, I also learn from Nilantha Coray at the NS Cricket Academy. Their guidance and expertise help me improve my game and reach my potential on the cricket field.
What’s been your best performance in cricket?
My best bowling performance was during the Sri Lanka School Cricket Association Under 13 Division 1 ‘Interschool Cricket Tournament’ in 2023. In one match, I took 5 wickets for just 4 runs, which was a significant achievement for me.
Throughout the tournament, I managed to take a total of 19 wickets in six games, including standout performances against Veluvana College, Colombo, and Piliyandala Central, where I took 10 wickets for 4 runs. Additionally, I served as the Vice Captain of the team during this tournament.
I was awarded the title of the Best Bowler in the ‘Athula Akarawita Cricket Training Center Tournament’ Under 15 category. Furthermore, I captained the team to victory in that tournament, bagging the Championship title.
Who is your role model in cricket and why?
My role model in cricket is Dhananjaya de Silva. I admire him for his exceptional performances on the cricket field.
What qualities are important for a cricketer to possess?
Two crucial qualities for a cricketer are discipline and resilience. Discipline is essential because without it, you can’t become a respected player. Being able to cope with wins and losses is vital.
Is there anyone you’d like to give special thanks to?
I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all my teachers and coaches who have played a significant role in my journey. Firstly, I want to thank Principal Pushpani Adihetti for her support and guidance. I’m also immensely grateful to my cricket coaches for their dedication and expertise in improving my cricketing skills.
Moreover, I owe a great deal of thanks to magicians Nuwan de Silva and Sumangala Silva, for sharing their knowledge and helping me develop my passion for magic. Their encouragement and mentorship have been invaluable to me.