Rathna Sumanapala KopiKadeHamine

Veteran actress Rathna Sumanapala who has been acting for more than five decades on stage, films and tele dramas is better known as Kopi Kade Hamine, following her outstanding role in the Kopi Kade tele drama series.She made her debut playing a male role as ‘Andare’ but her in-born talents as an actress and singer, made her a noteworthy star.

How did all this begin?

While studying at Ratnapura Baranduwa Junior School and Pelmadulla Central College, I acted and sang in school plays. My late husband Raja Sumanapala did music for the Pelmadulla Art forum. Sugathapala Senarath Yapa offered me my maiden stage role in ‘Pinbath’ in 1962. Later I got several acting offers.

How did you become Kopi Kade Hamine?

Kopi Kade was born following a concept by Thevis Guruge in 1987. I have played the role of Kopi Kade Hamine for more than 25 years. My first tele drama role came in the country’s first tele series ‘Dimuthu Muthu’. I have so far acted in more than 300 tele dramas. My first film was ‘Pembara Madhu’ and I have acted in about 30 films.

You also made some useful contributions in radio plays?

I am thankful to Agnes Sirisena who introduced me to radio. I acted in about 50 radio plays including Handiye Gedara, Muwan Pelessa and several others.

A word of advice for newcomers…

We reached this position through hard work, commitment and dedication. Nothing comes easy in life. Today’s generation wants to taste success instantly. Such achievements won’t last long. I conduct drama and theatre classes in the Ratnapura area now.

Your views about mega tele dramas?

People will be bored if all tele dramas look alike. The characters should have some substance. In that sense, Kopi Kade is like an institution. It has maintained the quality and content.

Awards…

I won the third place in the Sahithya Visharada competition in 2012 and my short story collection won another prize in 2011. Besides all this, I cherish the continued love and affection of my fans. I read a lot on Buddhist philosophy and I also write whenever time permits. I hope to publish a series of books comprising children’s songs.

Family…

My late husband was Raja Sumanapala. My children are Waruni Manjula, Prabash, Mahesh and Manjula. I have seven grandchildren. I am ever grateful to Agnes Sirisena, Thevis Guruge, Sugathapala Senarath Yapa, Raja Sumanapala and all who have helped me even in a small way.