Nihari Perera!

She’s beauty, brains, and a whole lot of bounce! From slam dunks on the basketball court to spotlight moments on the runway, and now lighting up the silver screen - she’s doing it all with style and a smile! 

She’s starred in not one but two films this year - Sooriya and Rhythm of the Guitar: Clarence - proving she’s not just a pretty face, but a powerful performer too. I love the natural and effortless acting. Say hello to the ever-glowing, ever-hustling, and absolutely fabulous Nihari Perera! Let’s find out what keeps this girl on the go - and what’s next on her rising star journey!

You’ve gone from basketball to beauty pageants - how did that happen? With my mom's background in the fashion industry, after school, I got an opportunity to  participate in a music video and there after my modeling career shot off. 
What’s harder: walking in heels or playing a full basketball match? Basketball match. 

How did it feel to leave your 27kg national costume behind at the airport? Heartbreaking, because I had to improvise as it was one of my most important costumes.

Do you still play basketball, or has modelling taken over? Yes I still make time for it . 

Which role pushed you more: the emotional depth in Clarence or the energy in Sooriya? I can’t pick one - but I  loved representing both characters. 

How did you balance film shoots with your other commitments—modelling, studies, sports? After my school career was over, my main focus was filming. I gave  priority to films.

Did you make any lasting friendships on either set—someone who supported or kept you laughing? Supporting each other and being there for them is the most important. 

What are you most excited for audiences to feel or take away after watching each movie? I want the audience to feel a genuine connection with the characters I portray..

You play Sheela Wijewardena—Clarence’s wife. How did you prepare for such a real-life character? It was a huge responsibility to take on this role. Our director, Theja Iddamalgoda, gave me the opportunity to connect directly with Sheela Wijewardena herself. Speaking with her gave me valuable insight and helped me understand how to portray her character authentically and respectfully.

Any favourite song or scene from the film where you felt totally in character? Mango Kalunande - because it’s a song I grew up singing in  my childhood.. 

 I got the opportunity to connect directly with Sheela Wijewardena herself. Speaking with her gave me valuable insight and helped me understand how to portray her character authentically and respectfully...

How did it feel premiering the film on June 27—was there a moment you thought, “Yes, this is it!”? I was the happiest I felt in a long time receiving a lot of love from fans, it’s actually better than what  I have dreamed about. 

What advice would you give your younger self ? In this industry, staying focused on what you truly want is the most important thing. Equally important is positioning yourself to receive the right opportunities. I’d tell my younger self to stay disciplined, maintain genuine friendships, and always be intentional about where you invest your time and energy - because that’s how you create lasting growth.