Career
He was successful graphite mine owner and was given the titular title of Mudaliyar for social service by the British colonial administration. He is the father of Doctorate. South. Senanayake, the first Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. Born in the village of Botale in 1847 to Don Bartholomew, he had his schooling at Street Thomas’ College, Matale.
He went into business and gained success in graphite mining, owning several mines.
He also own several plantations. He was awarded the title of Mudaliyar by Governor Sir Joseph West Ridgeway for being "a worthy citizen".
He died on November 7, 1907. His politically active sons started a political linage that extended several generations lasting to this day.
His descendants include Rukman Senanayake (great grandson), Vasantha Senanayake and Ruwan Wijewardene (great great grandsons) who are active in current Sri Lankan politics.