“Devayani is a symbol of unconditional love. I am delighted to be given the opportunity to play this character which is filled with emotions and expressions,” Nadeepa Ranasinghe who portrays the role of Devyani, one of the two consorts of God Skanda, in Professor Sunil Ariyaratne’s record breaking film ‘Kadira Divyaraja,” said.
“I have always harnessed a secret desire to step onto the big screen and portray a compelling role. My deep passion for acting and my undying love for movies were the driving forces behind this aspiration,” Ranasinghe added.
This specific project which marked her entry to acting, unfolded when the Prof. Ariyaratne embarked on a search for an actress to fill the role of Devayani. He was specifically interested in casting a fresh face, someone new to the industry, provided they demonstrated a strong ability to act.
The two main characters of ‘Kadira Divyaraja’ are portrayed by Indian actors Samar Virmani and Sonakshi Singh Rawat. Playing God Skanda’s first wife, Nadeepa breathed life to one of the most important characters in the story played by a local artiste. She had to interact with the duo on many occasions. She says that the experience has always been pleasant and memorable.
“They were very friendly and kind. We made a good team,” she smiled as she recalled the memories connected with the film.
Nadeepa with Samar Virmani and Sonakshi Singh Rawat in ‘Kadira Divyaraja’
“The project itself was so memorable. I will never forget those times. Being a new comer and playing a major role in a commercial film along with some of the most popular and experienced artistes in the field was definitely a highlight in my life,” she said.
Before ‘Kadira Divyaraja’ hit cinema screens, Nadeepa had embarked on other acting projects. She portrayed a minor role in Deepa Mehta’s ‘Funny Boy’ and assumed the main role in a short film titled ‘Klesha,’ which was directed by Chamath Paranawidana. Her performance in ‘Klesha’even won her an international award: the Outstanding Achievement Award – Best Actress at the Druk International Film Festival 2001 held in Bhutan.
Other roles
Beyond her acting prowess, there are many ways you can describe Nadeepa Ranasinghe: lawyer, dubbing artiste, model, former captain of Sri Lankan Army, TV news anchor life coach and Mrs Sri Lanka Universe!
Ranasinghe also conducts ‘Maya Doratuwa’, an extensive live online training program. She uses her experiences and vast knowledge to help guide viewers to re-engineer the brain and train the mind to achieve a happy and successful life.
“I teach advance meditation techniques, relaxation techniques and problem-solving skills to help them focus on the goals and achieve them at a speed they never thought possible. Therefore, participants of this live program get to know the techniques to bend the reality they experience around them. It’s a magical experience!” she added. -RJ
