Prasanna Vithanage facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Prasanna Vithanage
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Prasanna Vithanage during Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema, 2009
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| Born | 14 March 1962 Panadura, Western Province, Sri Lanka
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| Nationality | Sri Lankan |
| Occupation | Filmmaker |
| Years active | 1980s–present |
| Known for | Prasanna Vithanage Academy of Acting |
| Spouse(s) |
Damayanthi Fonseka
(m. 1991) |
| Awards | Full list |
Prasanna Vithanage is a well-known filmmaker from Sri Lanka. He was born on March 14, 1962. He is considered one of the most talented and important filmmakers in South Asia. He makes movies that encourage people to think deeply about social, political, and cultural topics. His films have won many awards both in Sri Lanka and internationally. They are often praised for their creative storytelling.
Prasanna Vithanage has also stood up against censorship in Sri Lanka. He teaches about cinema and has led many workshops for young filmmakers and movie fans. He is also involved in human rights and peace efforts.
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Prasanna Vithanage's Films
Prasanna Vithanage has directed and produced many important films. Here are some of his notable works:
Early Films and Recognition
- Sisila Giniganee (1992): This was his very first film as a director.
- Anantha Rathriya (1996): He directed and wrote this film.
- Pura Handa Kaluwara (1997): This film was both directed and produced by him.
- Pavuru Valalu (1997): Another film he directed.
Later Works and International Acclaim
- Ira Madiyama (2003): Also known as August Sun, he directed and co-wrote this film. It won several international awards.
- Akasa Kusum (2008): Meaning Flowers of the Sky, he directed, produced, and wrote this film. It received awards for its acting.
- Oba Nathuwa Oba Ekka (2012): This film, meaning With You, Without You, was directed and written by him. It won top awards at international film festivals.
- Usaviya Nihandai (2015): This is a documentary film that he directed and produced.
- Gaadi (2019): He directed, produced, and wrote this film.
- Paradise (2023): This recent film was directed and co-written by him. It won the Kim Jiseok award at the Busan International Film Festival.
Awards and Honours
Prasanna Vithanage's films have received many awards from around the world. These awards show how much his work is appreciated.
Awards for Ira Madiyama (August Sun)
- Grand Prix (Special Mention) "Le Regard d'or" at the Fribourg International Film Festival in 2004.
- FIPRESCI Award at the 17th Singapore International Film Festival in 2004.
- NETPAC Award at the 17th Singapore International Film Festival in 2004.
Awards for Akasa Kusum (Flowers of the Sky)
- Best Actress for Malini Fonseka at the Levante International Film Festival, Italy.
- Best Actress for Malini Fonseka at the SAARC Film Festival in 2012.
- It was also nominated for the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) Award.
Awards for Oba Nathuwa Oba Ekka (With You, Without You)
- Cyclo d'Or – Best Film at the Vesoul International Film Festival.
- NETPAC Award at the Vesoul International Film Festival.
- SIGNIS Award at the Milano African Asian Latin American Film Festival.
- Silver Peacock Award (Best Actress) for Anjali Patil at the Indian International Film Festival.
Other Honours
- In 2024, Prasanna Vithanage was a Jury member at the 29th Busan International Film Festival. He helped judge films for the 'Kim Jiseok Award' competition section.
