Jayalath Manoratne passes away
Veteran dramatist and actor in stage drama, film & television, Jayalath Manoratne passed away at the age of 71.
A highly versatile actor from drama to comedy, Manoratne has won awards ranging from OCIC, Presidential, Sarasavi, Raigam Tele’es, Sumathi and State Literary and Drama awards. He was a University Lecturer in Drama and Theater by profession.
In a career spanning more than five decades, his contributions to theatre in creations like Sinhabahu, Maname, Mahasara, Dunna Dunu Gamuwe, Rathu Hettakari, Naribena and others were remarkable. He also produced his own plays like Thalamala Pipila, Puthra Samagama, Andarela, Guru Tharuwa, Mayadevi, Sudu Redi Horu and others.
He acted in award-winning films and tele dramas, after having made his film debut with ‘Thilaka Saha Thilaka’ in 1976.
The characters he played in tele dramas like Gamperaliya (Jinadasa), Doo Daruwo (Punsiri), Hiruta Muwawen, Manik Nadiya Gala Basee, Sindu Bindu, Gajaman Puwatha and hundreds of others will linger in our memories forever.
Funeral arrangements would be notified later.

Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- “Siri Dalada Wandanawa” exposition of sacred tooth relic commences after 16 years April 18, 2025
- “Siri Dalada Wandanawa” begins today in Kandy after 16 years April 18, 2025
- Sri Lanka’s Defence Secretary orders tight security for Easter Sunday church services April 18, 2025
- Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Industry shares first quarter progress report April 17, 2025
- Gold prices in Sri Lanka hit record highs amid global surge April 17, 2025