Gemini Kantha

Nona Yuhan Sheriffdeen (born 20 February 1925 – died 22 June 1992 as ජෙමිනි කාන්තා [Sinhala]), popularly known by the stage name Jemini Kantha, was an actress in Sri Lankan cinema. One of the earliest pillars of Sinhala cinema, Kantha is considered the first female comedian in Sinhala cinema. She was a pioneer comedy actress known as "Josi Baba" and singer in early Sri Lankan cinema.

Personal life Gemini Kantha was born on 20 February 1925 in Meewakkumbura village in Matale to a Malay father.

Career After the end of school life, Kantha joined the B. A. W. Jayamanne's Minerva Drama Group. She won a reputation as a singer who sang for the discs during the Gramophone era along with Eddie Jayamanne, Mohideen Baig and A.M.U Raj. She became the first comic actress in Sri Lankan cinema with the role of "Josi baba" in Sri Lanka's first film Kadawunu Poronduwa in 1947. She also sang the song Nonage Ale Ge Meda Sale with Eddie Jayamanne.

She has acted in only seven films in a short span of 8 years. She quit cinema after having her first child. She also starred in Bennett Rathnayake's teledrama Tharu, which was her last appearance in career.

Filmography Year Film Role Ref. 1947 Kadawunu Poronduwa Josi baba 1948 Kapati Arakshakaya Supina 1948 Weradunu Kurumanama Maria 1949 Peralena Iranama Pabi Nona 1953 Prema Tharagaya Podihamy 1953 Sujatha Emily 1954 Warada Kageda 1982 Kadawunu Poronduwa remake Song Performer