The final rites of iconic actress Malini Fonseka were held with full state honours at Independence Square, today (26), drawing a large gathering of mourners.

Fonseka, widely revered as the “Queen of Sri Lankan Cinema,” passed away on 24 May at the age of 78. Her mortal remains lay in state at the National Film Corporation before being moved to Independence Square, where thousands paid tribute.

She leaves behind an unmatched legacy in the performing arts, having starred in over 140 films and countless stage and teledrama productions. Her accolades include multiple Sarasaviya Awards, a Special Jury Prize at the Moscow International Film Festival, and recognition as one of Asia’s greatest film actors by CNN.

Beyond acting, Fonseka broke barriers as Sri Lanka’s first female teledrama director and served as a Member of Parliament. Her profound influence on the arts will be remembered for generations.