Forbes has spotlighted the exceptional talent of Dinara Punchihewa, a Sri Lankan actress and filmmaker, in its prestigious 30 Under 30 Asia list for 2024. Punchihewa made her mark in the competitive Bollywood scene back in 2018 by showcasing her skills as a writer, actor, and director in her acclaimed short film ‘Maala’. The film garnered attention internationally, leading to her role in ‘Gaadi – Children of the Sun’ (2019), helmed by Sri Lankan filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage. Since then, Punchihewa has been involved in four other notable film projects.
A graduate of Queen Mary University of London, Punchihewa’s passion for the arts extends beyond her on-screen performances. She is the founder of Punchi Actors, a non-profit organization dedicated to introducing theater and acting to children from low-income families. Her commitment to both her craft and social impact has earned her a well-deserved spot on Forbes’ exclusive list, recognizing her as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
Dinara Punchihewa’s journey exemplifies creativity, determination, and a deep-rooted desire to make a positive difference through her work. As she continues to captivate audiences with her talent and vision, she stands as a shining star among Asia’s brightest young talents.
