This week, the Youth Observer caught up with the multi-talented artist, Gevin Abhishek.
Known for his stellar acting in ‘Pithru,’ which earned him the title of the best upcoming actor at the Sumathi Tele Awards this year.
Gevin’s versatility shines through not only in his acting but also in his musical endeavours. He’s truly a jack-of-all-trades in the entertainment world!
Abhishek, is a versatile actor, dancer, and singer. Growing up in a family steeped in the arts, with his father, Chinthaka Kulathunga, being a renowned actor, Gevin’s passion for performance ignited early on.
From school drama festivals to professional stage plays, he honed his craft, winning accolades along the way.
Trained at the Somalatha Subasinghe Playhouse and mentored by industry stalwarts like Kaushalya Fernando and Anoja Weerasinghe, Gevin’s talent blossomed.
His breakthrough came with the TV drama “Iskole Kaale,” followed by notable roles in series like “Kiruli” and “Sulanga Mahameraka,” earning him widespread acclaim locally and internationally.
Beyond the allure of his mesmerizing green eyes, Gevin distinguishes himself through his unwavering commitment to acting and newfound passion for music.
In conversation with Gevin, here’s what we found out:
Q: How did you enter the entertainment industry?
A: As a kid, I was full of energy, inspired by icons like Bruce Lee and Michael Jackson. I was all about action movies and pop music. Early on, I delved into drama and theater, even taking voice lessons from Samantha Perera.
I performed in numerous stage dramas and joined my first tele drama in 2012. Later, I went to Australia to further my studies in drama and theater. Growing up in an artistic family, my passion for drama and music was ingrained in me from the start.
Q: How did you start in the music industry?
A: For a while, I didn’t focus much on my musical side. Thanks to my background, I often ended up playing musician roles in TV dramas. This gave me chances to sing and perform on screen, and my fans finally noticed my musical talent.
After that, everything changed when I joined a musical show called ‘Oba Novana Mama’. It was a turning point in my music career. The positive feedback poured in, and I started getting invitations to perform and host shows.
I’m just passionate about performing, and I’m thrilled about all the opportunities coming my way.
Tell us about work in music you have done so far?
While I haven’t dropped any original tracks yet, I’ve put out four singles this year, with the first one hitting in March. And just last month, I wrapped up a tour in Cyprus.
Q: What genre of music are you into?
A: I’m into a mix of music genres, from Classical and Eastern tunes to R&B and pop. Performing feels like being at home for me, so R&B and pop resonate deeply. But truth be told, I enjoy a bit of everything.
I’ve got a couple of songs in the works for release — one in the R&B vibe and the other with a classical twist.
Q: What was your experience with Pithru?
A: Getting a role like ‘Pithru’ was a dream come true for me as an actor. Working alongside Dananda Abeynayake and many seasoned actors was an incredible opportunity. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime chance, and I gave it my all.
Q: What do you think about your recognition as best upcoming at?
A: I’m really thankful for the recognition, but I also believe that my hard work paid off and I deserved it.
Q: Do you play musical instruments?
A: I began practicing guitar, but with all my other commitments, I couldn’t give it the time it deserved. However, I’ve made the decision to dedicate myself to it and learn properly.
Q: Stage dramas, tele dramas or cinema?
A: Each has its own unique charm. Personally, I lean towards stage dramas and cinema because I adore the thrill of performing. While stage dramas allow me to showcase my talents live, my ultimate dream is to succeed in cinema. Tele dramas on the other hand have been the platform I have gotten to showcase my talent so i am eternally grateful for them.
Q: What is your dream with music?
A: My greatest aspiration at the moment is to launch my own music career, commencing with the debut release in March and striving for a total of four songs this year.
Peering into the future, my overarching ambition is to excel as a performer, captivating audiences with my artistry and leaving a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.
Q: Tell us what you’re up to this year musically?
A: Apart from releasing my music, I’m excited about the prospect of embarking on a few tours. One is planned for Canada under the guidance of Upali Gunarathne, another in Italy, and one in the US facilitated by Kumari Panditharathne. Their trust in my skills and talent means the world to me, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity.
Q: What is the best advice you have received?
A: Growing up with my dad, who’s an actor and a director, I’ve always valued his advice. Alongside that, I’ve been lucky to receive wisdom from many seasoned actors.
The best advice they’ve given me is to stay disciplined, keep it together, and never stop practicing my craft. They’ve taught me that practice truly does make perfect. I have truly incorporated that into my work.
Q: What advice would you give other upcoming musicians and actors?
A: I would say, live in the moment and keep smiling. Gevin also took this opportunity to thank his friends, family and all his beloved fans for all the love and support they have shown him throughout his theatrical and musical journey. We wish Gevin the best of luck for all his future endeavours.
