Surakshi for Mrs. Asia International in Malaysia

By Anuradha KODAGODA

Surakshi Siriwardhana is the first Mrs. Classic, who will represent Sri Lanka in Mrs. Asia International 2012 in Malaysia. Surakshi is in her mid-fifties and her charm not only lies with her beauty, but also with her fun-loving personality. Her simplicity and down-to-earth quality have enhanced her well-balanced personality. The common complaint made by many women is that they cannot maintain their beauty after some years of motherhood. At this stage some of them have to seek the assistance of beauticians. However, her smile proves that there is no need to spend money on too much cosmetics.

"I visit my beautician once in a while, but I always maintain my health and food habits. I'm very much concerned with my cleanliness which is more important than anything else," Surakshi said.

Though the Mrs. Asia International 2012 beauty pageant is just around the corner, Surakshi did not hesitate to speak to the Sunday Observer which is the official sponsor of Mrs. Classic Sri Lanka 2012 held at Hotel Galadari recently.

Excerpts of the interview:

"I was born at Bambalapitiya and I had my primary education at Holy Family Convent. As my father wanted me to continue my studies in the science stream I did my GCE Ordinary Level and Advanced Level at Devi Balika Vidyalaya in Colombo. However, as I had no interest in science I did business management at a UK university", she said. Surakshi excelled in her studies and completed her degree at 22 years. Then she got married to a German and returned to Sri Lanka with her daughter.

"I returned to Sri Lanka with my four-year-old daughter after spending many years in England, Spain and Saudi Arabia. Though I was dissatisfied with marriage, my parents and friends urged to marry again while I was tossing like a half destroyed boat caught up in a storm, I met my husband. I'm extremely lucky to have found him. He, kind hearted, helpful and easy going. I have worked as a beautician for a few years and I think I have gained knowledge on how to maintain my body and beauty at my age", she said.

"My father was a manager at Elephant House and my mother was a housewife and they passed away some years ago.

I have three sisters and two brothers and I'm quite grateful to be a part of my wonderful family. I am a Roman Catholic who always believes in God. I have experienced many miracles as a result of my trust in God", she said.

It was my mother who made me beauty and fashion conseious. She herself maintained her beauty. She always selected matching shoes, handbags, nail polish and jewellery. Therefore, beauty and fashion are not unfamiliar to me since my childhood."

She believes in sharing. Her wardrobe is always open for her friends and they used to borrow her party dresses, sarees and jewellery, she said.

"I came to know about the beauty pageant from my friend Vasana Danthanarayana. Apparently nobody else has participated in Mrs. Classic Contest which comes under the Mrs. Asia International Beauty Pageant. I think this would be a great opportunity for women who are over 50 years. To participate in the event I too had to do exercise continuously and lost 5 kg", she said.

"In every woman's life there is a certain age. They have to sacrifice their beauty for the sake of children. For instance Aishwarya Rai is a courageous woman who is now a mother of a daughter.

It is essential to maintain the body with healthy food, regular exercise and spirituality. I lead a well-balanced life.

Therefore, I hope to succeed in the Mrs. Asia International 2012 beauty pageant which starts on June 21. I am determined to make my motherland proud", she said.