Sinhala cinema has a rich history, but there’s a chapter often left out of the main story. Negombo, a coastal city in Sri Lanka, holds an underappreciated spot in the origins of Sinhala cinema. Nestled away from the usual film hubs, Negombo was the place where this art form quietly began to bloom. Here, in the early days, the Minerva Theater Group ignited a creative spark, setting a foundation for what would become the Sinhala film industry. Although its role in the growth of Sinhala cinema isn’t widely acknowledged, Negombo shaped the careers of some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic actors, filmmakers, and artists, breathing life into a young and hopeful industry.
From veteran artists like Eddie Jayamanna and Rukmani Devi to a newer wave that included Ranjan Ramanayake and Kanchana Mendis, Negombo fostered the talent that shaped Sinhala cinema. As the artistic pulse of the city continued, Negombo became more than just a birthplace for actors; it was a community that nurtured filmmakers, lyricists, directors, and cinematographers.
Negombo’s Minerva Theater Group
At the heart of Negombo’s film legacy lies the Minerva Theater Group, a vital player in the development of Sinhala cinema. Though often overshadowed by later film movements, this theater group gave Sinhala cinema its starting point. The Minerva Theater Group didn’t just aim to entertain—it crafted meaningful stories, setting a strong example for future filmmakers. Established in Negombo, it was known for producing works that resonated deeply with local audiences. Figures like Eddie Jayamanna, B.A.W. Jayamanna, and Rukmani Devi made their names here, honing their skills and bringing authentic Sinhala narratives to life.
Their dedication turned heads and encouraged other artists to step into the world of cinema. This group’s approach combined artistry and technical skill, shaping a unique cinematic voice for Sri Lanka. While big names eventually took center stage, the contributions of these early figures still form the backbone of Sinhala cinema. Today, the achievements of the Minerva Theater Group are not just history; they’re reminders of Negombo’s role in bringing Sinhala stories to the big screen.
The First Generation of Pioneers
Negombo was home to some of the earliest stars in Sinhala cinema. In the beginning, the talent pool included iconic figures such as Vijitha Mallika, Anton Gregory, Andrew Jayamanna, and Laetitia Peiris. Each artist brought something new, breaking boundaries and setting standards for the Sinhala film industry. These pioneers weren’t just actors; they were directors, lyricists, and creative professionals who contributed to all aspects of filmmaking. Their dedication and passion made Sinhala cinema unique, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich culture, history, and people.
Eventually, a new wave of talent emerged, pushing the industry forward. Actors like Ranjan Ramanayake, Nayani Maheshika, and Kanchana Mendis carried the legacy of those who came before, adapting to modern storytelling while honoring the foundations laid by the first generation. Together, this mix of old and new voices built a cinematic tradition, connecting different generations through their love for Sinhala cinema.
Preserving Negombo’s Cinematic Legacy
Negombo’s influence on Sinhala cinema hasn’t gone unnoticed. Over the years, multiple books, reports, and documents have been written, capturing the stories of the city’s artists who brought Sinhala culture to life through film. Out of these publications, 11 books specifically focus on cinematographers from Negombo, underscoring the depth of the city’s contribution to this art form. The records don’t just recount names and dates—they reflect the hard work, creativity, and passion of those who made Negombo a cultural hub.
These documents have preserved a precious part of Sri Lankan heritage, celebrating the unique role Negombo played in theater, dance, music, and film. Beyond films, the city’s contributions to various art forms cemented its place in the hearts of many Sri Lankans. With each publication, the city’s history in cinema is enriched, ensuring that Negombo’s story doesn’t fade with time.
Future Plans for Documenting the Legacy
The narrative of Negombo’s impact on Sinhala cinema is still unfolding. Some artists and historians have plans to expand on this legacy by studying the influence of the city’s churches, temples, and schools on its film culture. These institutions served as backdrops for many lives, shaping individuals who later contributed to Sinhala cinema. The rich traditions, vibrant communities, and unique architectural landmarks of Negombo were more than scenery—they were inspirations. By delving into these details, researchers hope to provide a fuller understanding of how Negombo shaped not just cinema but the Sri Lankan arts as a whole.
Negombo’s Unique Cinema Scene
Negombo’s cinemas, especially the Meepura Cinemas, were a phenomenon in themselves. More than places to watch movies, they were cultural touchstones where locals gathered, shared stories, and became part of a wider cinematic journey. The Meepura cinemas, in particular, captured a spirit that was distinctly Negombo. This cinema wasn’t just about film screenings; it was about fostering a sense of community and shared experiences. The tradition of going to the cinema here became deeply woven into the fabric of Negombo life, making it a unique and cherished cultural activity for its residents.
The Cinematic Influences of Meepura and Local Icons
Negombo’s film culture extended beyond the walls of the cinemas. Early figures like Eddie Jayamanna and Rukmani Devi inspired countless others, both locally and nationally, to explore the world of cinema. As noted in Ariyapala’s book on Anton Gregory, these iconic personalities fueled a wave of second-generation filmmakers, whose creativity and dedication helped Sinhala cinema evolve. In this close-knit environment, new filmmakers learned from those who had paved the way, continuing a tradition that honored the pioneers of Negombo.
The Four Cinemas of Early Negombo
Regal Cinema
Regal Cinema, located in the heart of Negombo, is legendary. Owned by Ceylon Theatres, it was initially known as Ashokamala Cinema. The name originated from the film Ashokamalava, the first to be screened here, which became a local favorite. Regal Cinema became a gathering place for art lovers and film enthusiasts, transforming into a hub for Sinhala and English films by the late 1970s. For many, it wasn’t just a cinema; it was a place to experience the art of storytelling.
Nadaraja Talkies
Located in Kamchchoda, Nadaraja Talkies had a unique journey. Originally managed by a family tied to Pesum Padam, a well-known Tamil magazine from South India, it was eventually bought by Kingsley Cruz and renamed Negombo Kings Cinema. This cinema stood out for its lineup of popular Sinhala films, with a sprinkling of Tamil and English movies from time to time. It gave locals a chance to enjoy diverse film genres, appealing to a broad audience and strengthening Negombo’s film culture.
Raj Cinema
Raj Cinema, known for its Tamil and English movies, was a favorite among locals interested in South Indian Dravidian films. Owned by government contractor S.B. Andrew Mutthaiyya, Raj Cinema was the place to experience Indian cinema until it was tragically destroyed in 1983 during a wave of racial violence. Despite its loss, the cinema holds a special place in the memories of those who cherished its unique offerings.
Meepura Cinema is Negombo’s Oldest City Hall
The Meepura Cinema has a story of its own. Built-in 1920 as Negombo’s oldest city hall, it showcased Edwardian architecture, a style influenced by British rule. Later, it was transformed into a cinema by businessman Mohammed Rifa, becoming a favorite venue for Tamil films. Meepura Cinema drew large crowds for screenings of films starring popular actors like M.G. Ramachandran and Sivaji Ganesan, cementing its place in the hearts of Tamil-speaking locals.
The Influence of J.P. Chandrababu
Chandrababu’s Negombo Roots and Tamil Film Popularity
J.P. Chandrababu, a renowned comedian with roots in Tamil Nadu, had close ties to Negombo, particularly in the Wellavidi area. His family moved to Negombo before he gained fame as a comedian in Tamil cinema. Chandrababu’s occasional visits back to Negombo strengthened his bond with the local community, who eagerly celebrated his success. Stories even circulate of him attending a screening of Veerapandiya Kattabomman at Meepura Cinema with fellow actor Sivaji Ganesan, a fond memory shared among locals.
Cultural Traditions Tied to Negombo’s Cinemas
Negombo’s Unique Late-Night Film Culture
For Negombo’s fishing community, a trip to the cinema was more than a night out; it was a tradition. They often attended late-night screenings at Meepura Cinema, creating a unique cultural routine. The path from Meepura Cinema to the Negombo New Inn was lined with lamp posts featuring fish-shaped designs, reflecting the area’s strong connection to the sea. These lampposts, some of which still stand near the Negombo railway station, serve as a reminder of the town’s long standing relationship with its cinema culture.
