The Fame Game Featuring Amritaa De Silva

Former Miss Sri Lanka and Miss World contestant Amritaa De Silva recently joined hosts Kumar de Silva and Rozanne Diasz on The Fame Game for an engaging and candid conversation. Speaking from La Maison de Colombo, the French boutique restaurant that served as the venue for the discussion, Amritaa reflected on motherhood, pageantry, personal values, and the experiences that have shaped her life. During the interview, the former beauty queen opened up about her approach to childbirth, her perspective on international pageants, her life between Sri Lanka and Austria, and the importance of staying authentic despite public scrutiny. She also spoke about family life, her long-term partnership with her husband Ivan, and how motherhood continues to influence her choices and outlook.

Q: You attended the Miss World pageant in India recently. What was that experience like?

A: It was incredible. The pageant was held in Hyderabad, and Sri Lanka was represented by Anudi. The entire production was very impressive, and the organisers had put a tremendous amount of effort into the event. There were contestants from all over the world, and the energy in the room was remarkable. The audience was extremely enthusiastic, and thousands of people followed the event online. Watching the contestants perform on stage and represent their countries was a powerful experience. It reminded me of my own journey in pageantry and how meaningful it can be when you are representing your nation on a global platform.

Q: Do you think Sri Lanka could ever host a world-class pageant like that?

A: I believe it is possible, but it would require a great deal of effort, planning, and resources. Organising a large international pageant is extremely complex. You need a strong team, proper logistical planning, and solid financial backing. If all these elements come together, Sri Lanka certainly has the potential to host an international event. However, it would require commitment from organisers and sponsors to make it successful.

Q: Some people say Sri Lanka is not really a pageantry country. Do you agree?

A: To some extent, yes. Countries like the Philippines have a very strong pageant culture. Many young girls grow up dreaming of becoming beauty queens, and there is a great deal of training and support available. In Sri Lanka, that culture is not as deeply rooted. However, I believe things are gradually changing. We are seeing more interest and greater recognition for international pageants. Even if we are not traditionally a pageantry-focused country, we can still provide the necessary support for women who represent Sri Lanka on global stages.

Q: When you compare your experience at Miss World with what you saw recently, have things changed?

A: Yes, there has definitely been a change. When I participated in Miss World in 2016 in Washington D.C., the atmosphere was quite different. Social media was not as influential then as it is today. Now, social media plays a significant role in pageantry. It allows contestants to connect with audiences around the world instantly. Engagement and interaction with fans have increased considerably. In Hyderabad, I observed how actively the audience was involved in the event. That level of enthusiasm adds a new dimension to the competition.

Q: When you had your first two children in Austria, you chose home births rather than hospital deliveries. Why did you make that decision?

A: I made that decision very consciously. I always felt that I wanted to experience childbirth in a natural and peaceful environment. Both of my first two children were born at home in Austria, and it was truly a magical experience. I did have a midwife assisting me during the final stage, so I was not completely alone. The atmosphere was calm and comforting. Compared to many other intense experiences in life, including pageantry and public engagements, childbirth felt incredibly peaceful. It is difficult to describe in words. Being in your own environment gives you a sense of safety and relaxation, which makes a significant difference during such an important moment.

Q: Do you think home births could become more common in Sri Lanka?

A: I believe it is possible, but there needs to be proper awareness, training, and support systems in place. In many parts of the world, home births are quite normal and widely accepted. However, in Sri Lanka, the practice is still quite rare. There is a significant burden on the medical system, and safe home births could help reduce that pressure. It is important to ensure that midwives and healthcare professionals receive proper training so that mothers are well supported. At the same time, mothers need to feel confident and informed. Fear is often the biggest obstacle. With the right knowledge and support, women can make decisions that are best for them.

Q: Would you ever consider competing for Mrs. Sri Lanka in the future?

A: I never really had the dream of becoming a beauty queen when I was younger. I was more of a tomboy, and pageantry was not something I actively pursued. However, when I was given the opportunity to represent Sri Lanka, it became something I was truly passionate about. I understood the value of the platform and the opportunities it offered. I prefer not to say never to any opportunity. If something meaningful comes along and I feel that I can represent my country well, I would certainly consider it.

Q: Away from the glamour of pageants, you are known for enjoying a very different lifestyle in Austria. What is that like?

A: It is quite different from the lifestyle people associate with pageantry. I believe people should embrace their true personalities. When I attend events or represent Sri Lanka, I present myself accordingly. However, in my personal life, I enjoy simplicity. For instance, if I am walking in a forest, I would not wear high heels. I would choose comfort and practicality. Life should be balanced, and every situation has its appropriate way of being.

Q: What role has your husband played in your life?

A: He has been a very important part of my journey. We have been together for about thirteen years, which is a significant portion of my life. He has supported me through many stages, both before and after pageantry. Having a partner who understands the pressures and responsibilities you face is extremely important. He is a secure and supportive individual. In situations where there may be attention from others, including men, he remains calm and understanding. That kind of stability is invaluable in a relationship.

Q: Looking back at your time as Miss Sri Lanka, is there anything you regret?

A: There is one instance that has stayed with me. At one point, I did an advertisement for a food product that was not vegetarian. As someone who has followed a vegetarian lifestyle for many years, it did not fully align with my personal beliefs. However, at that time, I needed financial support and did not want to place a burden on my family. I would not say I regret it entirely, but I do wish it had been a vegetarian product.

Q: You have been vegetarian for many years. Was it difficult to maintain that lifestyle?

A: Not at all. I have been vegetarian for about twenty years, and I do not miss meat. My children also eat a lot of vegetables because they see me enjoying that lifestyle. They are very active and healthy, which makes me proud of the choices we make as a family.

Q: If you eventually have a daughter, would you allow her to enter pageants?

A: Yes, I would not oppose it. Pageantry has given me many opportunities and valuable experiences. However, it would depend on the personality of the child. If she is confident, focused, and strong enough to handle the pressures involved, I would support her. As parents, our role is to guide our children and help them make informed decisions.

Q: You have experienced life both in Europe and in Sri Lanka. Where do you feel most at home?

A: I truly love Sri Lanka. I appreciate the warmth of the people, the culture, and the food. Life in Europe can be very fast paced. People are often busy with their own responsibilities. In Sri Lanka, there is a stronger sense of community and hospitality. I also value the simplicity of life here. My children are able to grow up with strong family connections and cultural values.

Q: What advice would you give to future Miss Sri Lanka contestants who hope to succeed internationally?

A: One of the most important factors today is the effective use of social media. It is a powerful tool that allows contestants to connect with people across the world. In addition, contestants need better training, preparation, and support. This includes professional guidance in grooming, styling, and communication. Sponsors and brands should also play a more active role. When a country demonstrates strong support for its representative, it makes a significant impact on the international stage.

Amritaa De Silva’s conversation on The Fame Game offered a thoughtful glimpse into the life of a woman who balances public recognition with personal authenticity. From pageantry to motherhood and from international experiences to simple family moments, her journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to staying true to herself. As Sri Lanka continues to nurture new talent in the world of pageantry, voices like Amritaa’s provide valuable insight into the dedication, discipline, and perspective required to represent a nation on the global stage.