Vajira Chithrasena [Sri Lankan Traditional Dancer]

Vajira Chitrasena was a Sri Lankan traditional dancer, choreographer and teacher. Vajira is regarded as Sri Lanka's first prima ballerina. She is the first Sri Lankan woman to practise the traditional Kandyan dance which was traditionally performed only by men. Vajira is credited with creating brand for a female style of Kandyan dancing and setting the tone for women to become ritual dancers. She was married to Chitrasena who was a well known legendary dancer and dance guru..She made her debut as soloist in the role of Prakriti in the ballet 'Chandali' in 1952. Her rise to stardom was coupled with unswerving discipline and dedication not only as a teacher, but as a performer and a choreographer as well, even as she illumined her husband's career.