The remains of veteran actress Malini Fonseka, revered as the “Queen of Sri Lankan Cinema”, will be brought to the National Film Corporation of Sri Lanka today (25 May) for the public to pay their final respects.
Her body will lie in state at the Tharangani Hall from 10:00 a.m. today, with another opportunity for the public to pay homage at Independence Square tomorrow (26 May), according to her family.
Samanalee Fonseka, niece of the late actress, invited the public to join in honouring Malini Fonseka’s legacy at the National Film Corporation today. Her sister, veteran actress Damayanthi Fonseka, described Malini as a deeply loving family member whose loss is profoundly felt by both the family and the nation.
Veteran actress Geetha Kumarasinghe, who visited to pay her respects yesterday, said Fonseka’s passing is an irreparable loss to Sinhala cinema. Dr. Nanda Malini, the renowned singer, also remarked that the country has lost a true national treasure.
The final rites of Malini Fonseka will be held with full state honours on Monday, 26 May, at Independence Square, as confirmed by the Minister of Cultural Affairs.