Sidangana Cooray is a six-year-old child model and an actress currently playing the role of Aliya in the drama ‘Massa’. She is a student of Vihara Maha Devi Balika Vidyalaya, Kiribathgoda, and her ambition is to become a talented model. She loves to try out different fashion outfits and says that creating colourful outfits makes her very happy. In a recent chat with The Sunday Morning Little Stars, Sidangana said that neatness and cleanliness are two key qualities that contribute to beauty. 

Sidangana, tell us more about yourself.

I am six years old and I live with my elder sister, elder brother, and my mother. My father currently lives abroad. I am a student of Vihara Maha Devi Balika Vidyalaya, Kiribathgoda and I am waiting to graduate to grade two. The most favourite thing I do is imitate models that I see on the television and the internet. I am so fascinated by their skills. I have been lucky enough to act as well as contribute as a child model on several occasions. It’s not just posing for pictures but also a skill that I have to learn and master. 

What is your dream for the future?

I want to be a successful model and an actress. I want to earn a lot of money and buy my mother a luxury car and build her an amazing house with different coloured walls. I also want to travel from country to country and learn about them. 

Do you have any other hobbies?

I like watching cartoons. I like to sing and dance too. My sister is my teacher. She teaches me everything that she learns. She is the one who encourages me a lot to improve my skills in acting and modelling. 

I also like learning about fashion. I love multi-coloured dresses with different ornaments. I love to mix and match colours to make pretty outfits. I get the help of YouTube videos to learn about these things. 

You have beautiful long hair. Do you have any special tips for those who want to keep their hair healthy and beautiful?

You have to maintain your hair and protect it from damage. I apply oil every day and comb it neatly with the help of my mother. When I wash my hair, I don’t forget to use a conditioner. Nutrition is very important too. My mother always advised me to eat green leaves and healthy food rich in vitamins. I always finish my portion of mallum (vegetable sambol). 

Do you have any other beauty tips for children?

Neatness and cleanliness are number one. Our skin is still too sensitive so don’t use different creams or makeup products without parental advice. Be colourful when you pick outfits for yourself and pick something that you feel comfortable wearing. It’s also important to stay away from the sun when it is too hot and bright. It’s not so good for us. 

Can you tell us about your acting career?

If you watch ‘Massa’ telecasted in Swarnavahini during the weekends, you would see me acting. I play the role of Aliya. I was around two years old when I received my first opportunity to act. My mother says that I was crazy about modelling and acting even when I was that young. I was selected as the Awurudu Kumari at a New Year competition organised by a prominent television channel. I have also played a role in the drama ‘Sasara Sewaneli.’ 

I have contributed to many TV commercials too. One of my favourites was when I got the opportunity to play the role of an angel for Christmas. I really enjoyed doing it. 

Do you play any sports?

I love gymnastics. I have joined the school gymnastics practices too. 

Is there anyone you want to thank? 

I would like to thank uncle Isuru de Silva of Hiru TV for the opportunity to act in ‘Sasara Sewaneli.’ He was the director. Rangana De Silva uncle for introducing me to the ’Massa’ team in Swarnavahini. Susantha Seneviratne uncle from Sirasa TV also helped me get opportunities. 

My teacher Tekla Dharani who supports me immensely to improve my skills and aunty Teena Saheli for all the support she has given me. 

There are teachers in my school I’d like to thank too – especially Miss Sapiri for helping me to catch up with missed work. My class teacher is so wonderful; she has supported me from day one. We went to school knowing nothing as we were stuck at home due to the pandemic during the time I was supposed to go to preschool. 

Last but not least, my family and especially my mother for being with me every step of the way.