Sri Lanka, March 17 -- Sri Lanka's first supermodel, fashion icon Akushla Sellayah, has passed away.

Fondly known as "Aku," she was a trailblazer who revolutionized the country's fashion industry, leaving behind an enduring legacy of style, confidence, and authenticity.

Sellayah's rise to prominence in the 1980s coincided with the birth of Sri Lanka's fashion scene, a time when the country was beginning to make its mark on the global stage. With her smoldering beauty, captivating presence, and unmatched catwalk skills, she redefined modeling as more than just showcasing outfits-she brought them to life, setting a new standard for generations to follow.

Her influence extended beyond the runway. In 1985, she starred in "Sura Doothiyo", t...