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• How would you define "beauty?"
The noblest kind of beauty is the one that slowly filters into the mind. Beauty is something that comes from within. It is a feeling you leave behind in the hearts of others. Charisma, charm, compassion and intellect are considered as beauty that will always be remembered because it can be felt.

• What were your reasons for joining the Miss Sri Lanka 2006 pageant?
It's always been a dream of mine as a child as I always wanted to do something great for my country. To me, there is no greater honor than to be given the opportunity to represent your country to the world and I knew it could provide me with a gateway to further my humanitarian goals in life. As I grew older, I knew that this was a challenge I wanted to take up. It seemed like a long shot but you don't have to be a phenomenal person to do phenomenal things so I reached for the stars and never looked back!

• How were you elected as Miss Sri Lanka Universe? Describe the judging process.
The judging process consisted of four main categories. The day before the pageant, we were brought before the judges for a personal interview with them where they judged us on intellect, personality and articulation of views. We then paraded in our swimming outfits to be judged on confidence and poise and also on 'beauty of face'. On the day of the pageant, we were judged on our evening gowns and stage presence, and finally the interview on stage.

• What do you think are your qualities that helped you earn the judges' approval & the crown?
From the feedback I got, it was my dedication to being a perfectionist in every way. My hard work and devotion was evident and realized through the interview and all the mini pageants. But I think the judges were able to see in me the passion and the drive to do my best for Sri Lanka and that commitment I feel is what won their hearts.

• Tell us about your preparations for the Miss Universe contest.
Physical preparations are fundamental to achieving success in a beauty pageant as it displays your discipline and drive. However, that said, it is imperative to train yourself mentally as competition requires a lot of will power. I do a lot of research, reading and also public speaking wherever I get the chance to grace an audience and this I feel has helped immensely by building up my confidence as a person- the key to achieving any form of success.

• Can you tell something that is so interesting or unique about you?
In my opinion, the most interesting thing about me would have to be the fact that my birth was never meant to be as my mother had already undergone a sterilization operation after my brother was born. However, it just so happened that the operation didn't go quite according to plan, it basically was a flop! And there I was, a person who just thrives on life and never lets any second go to waste. My mother always reminds me that I was a miracle child.

• Any beauty queen/s that you really admire? Why?
Lara Dutta of India for her intelligence and self-assurance. In pageant history, no one has been able to match her interview scores which was 100%. Rosie Senanayake of Sri Lanka for bringing pride and glory to Sri Lanka by being the first Sri Lankan to win an international beauty pageant (Miss Asia 1981 and Mrs. World 1984). She's talented, confident and beautiful and never fails to impress. She's my true icon.

• Describe your fashion sense and style.
Coco Chanel, to me, is the designer of the century and has revolutionized fashion for women. Jacqueline Kennedy and Grace Kelly are my fashion idols with their effortless sophistication and elegance. I try to make my look as classic as possible, I do not change with the trends; instead I innovate to suit my personal style. 

• How will you describe your country to your co-candidates at Miss Universe? 
Sri Lanka is a taste of what heaven would be like on earth. As you land on Sri Lankan soil, the magic and mystic of this beautiful island in the Indian Ocean captivates you. Sri Lanka is one of Asia's richest treasure troves in man-made and natural wonders. Our country is blessed with rolling meadows, meandering rivers, cascading waterfalls, dense forests, sun-kissed beaches, 7 world heritage sites including temple caves and ancient palaces, and of course hospitable people, blessed with a rich culture and heritage of over 2500 years old. Sri Lanka truly is a land perfect for adventure. Having traveled around the world, Sri Lanka really seems to have it all in a small compact island where a weekend getaway from the bustling, energetic business capital, Colombo, is just a few hours away to a fantasy-like spot. However, what I believe sets us apart is the warmth and simplicity in our people. Complacent and peaceful and always ready to give a helping hand with a big smile - the burden of a 20-year ethnic conflict is never felt. So whether you're basking on our warm tropical beaches or high up on our mountains surrounded by waterfalls and tea plantations, Sri Lanka will never cease to amaze you, a land with something for everyone.

• What is your opinion on activists' point of view that exposure of too much skin in the swimsuit competition disrespects women?
The swimsuit competition's purpose is to gauge the contestant's discipline, self-confidence and poise to evaluate her dedication and potential in the international pageant. It is a crucial part of the judging process and it is much too primitive in this day and age to claim that it's demeaning when in fact it is celebrating the natural and exquisite beauty of women.

• Supposed there is a Genie who happens to be mad at you for a wrong deed committed and his punishment is to turn you into an animal for a year. You can't plead to alter his decision but you get to decide what type of animal, you would become, what creature would you choose and why?
I'd like to be turned into a horse, which I consider as powerful, courageous and graceful. There is something majestic and dignified about horses and I've always felt a connection with them. I'd love to know what a horse feels like to gallop at full speed with no inhibitions, just the wind rushing through its hair. It is truly a magnificent creature!

• If it were your last day on earth, what would you eat & why?
Undoubtedly, a typical Sri Lankan rice and curry. It may have been a dish I've grown up with but with rice and curry comes tradition and family- two things I pay a lot of importance to and that would be the way I'd like to spend my last day. I wouldn't be able to ask for anything more!

• Do you have a motto or personal quote that you live by?
'Success is not a matter of combustion, you've got to set yourself alight' by Abraham Lincoln. Basically, you've got to believe in yourself and create your own luck and always remember - victory comes to those who are most perseverant- so never give up!

• Aside from winning your title, what's the best thing that has ever happened to you?
Winning the scholarship to the University of Sydney. I had worked extremely hard to earn that scholarship to take the burden of university fees off my parents. It gave me independence, maturity and pride in myself for accomplishing a task I put my mind to.

• Do you think winning a beauty pageant is really important? Tell us about your responsibilities as Miss Sri Lanka titleholder.
The chance to be an ambassador to your country is a duty and a privilege that many people don't get the opportunity to do. As you instantly become a public figure and role model to your people, you have the daunting task to act responsibly and use your publicity for goodwill and charity so as to inspire those to follow in your footsteps. To me, focusing on charities is the most rewarding aspect of being Miss Sri Lanka as we are a developing country where any form of donation or contribution is widely appreciated. Apart from working towards the empowerment of women and children, I also wish to spearhead a series of changes in the attitude of pageant contestants by motivating them to use this opportunity and make it a platform to voice their opinions. We're relatively new to the pageant scene as a country but we've got the talent, beauty and potential and I want to act as the catalyst to bring it to the world's attention. 

• Why do you want do be crowned Miss Universe and how would you define the title in your own terms?
Through the Miss Universe crown, I would be able to put the global spotlight on Sri Lanka which would be beneficial to our tourism and international exposure. It is also such an accomplishment for yourself and your country and opens up doors for your future goals and ambitions. Your life changes the minute you wear that crown and it will never be the same again. Could you ask for more? 

• What should pageant experts, your fellowmen, fans and beauty watchers expect from Miss Sri Lanka at Miss Universe 2006 pageant?
A strong, sharp and focused young lady with much substance to what she says and who's determined to make a difference for her country in pageant history. Expect 200% coming from me! 

• Finally, leave a message for your fans, supporters and the readers of Missosology.
Firstly, to the people of Missosology - your dedication and support is overwhelming. Keep up the fantastic job! Fans, supporters and my dear family and friends - through times like these, your encouragement and guidance have never been so appreciated. You are all always in my prayers, please keep me in yours. 'Ayubowan' (may you all live a long life)