Sinhala cinema actor and producer Gamini Fonseka passed away Thursday at his residence in Ja ela.

Malini Fonseka, queen of the silver screen who had a long and much celebrated professional companionship with Gamini said,

"His performance had appeal across the board and I had the good fortune of being associated with Gamini.The cinema of that era is slowly fading away and the passing away of Gamini is another step towards that direction"

Gamini as Willie Abeynayaka in Nidhanaya with Malini

Tissa Liyanasuriya who directed Gamini for the main role in 'Getawerayo' paid tribute to the cinema legend for his contribution towards raising the standards of the workers of the film industry in Sri Lanka.

"In the early days there was little recognition for cinema artist. Gamini did a lot to change this .He championed the cause of professionalism untiringly"

Gamini's long time associate Tony Ransinghe told sandeshaya that Gamini film direction talents were never adequately appreciated.

Former Prime Minister Dudley Senanayaka felicitates Gamini

"When Gamini directed his first film 'Parasatu Mal' he was just only twenty seven. He dealt a very complex theme with maturity and a great understanding of humanity".

Leftist politician Vasudeva Nanayakkara who was a member of parliament when Gamini was deputy speaker hailed Gamini's views on the Sri Lankan National Question as "progressive and anti-racist"

Gamini dominated the pop as well as art cinema with equal ease

Gamini's mentor and internationally acclaimed cinematographer Lester James Pieris was very much moved with the passing away of his dear colleague.

When requested to share his thoughts with Sandeshaya, "Sorry, I am unable to speak at the moment," was all he said.

Technician turned actor

Gamini was the most important and versatile actor of the Sinhala screen. The Sakviti of Sinhala cinema managed to conquer the commercial cinema and the art film with equal ease.

Gamini began his career as a technician in earlier films of Lester James Pieris.

Gamini collects award at film festival with Iranganie Serasinghe, Jeevarani Kurukulasuriya, Karunaratne Abeysekara and W D Amaradeva

Gamini not only revolutionised the acting style of Sinhala screen, but also worked hard to change attitudes in the industry.

He was known to be a man who always spoke his mind.

In a career spanning half a century, Gamini acted, directed and produced several remarkable films and composed lyrics before turning in to politics.

He served as the governor of the North East and as the deputy speaker in Parliament.