Pinnaduwage Aravinda de Silva, born on October 17, 1965, in Colombo to Sam and Indrani de Silva, embarked on his cricketing journey from humble beginnings. Educated initially at Isipathana College and later at D.S Senanayake College, Aravinda's talent for cricket became evident early on. Despite his stature, standing at just 5'3", young Aravinda's explosive batting prowess earned him the moniker "Pocket Rocket" during his school days. Excelling both academically and on the cricket field, he swiftly caught the eye of talent scouts, securing a place in the Sri Lankan cricket team's playing eleven at a mere 18 years of age. From his formative years, Aravinda's remarkable talent and dedication set the stage for an illustrious cricketing career as a celebrated batsman and cricketing icon.
Off the cricket field, Aravinda de Silva, affectionately known as the "Mad Max" of cricket, stands as a beacon of humility and discipline. Married to his wife Anushka De Silva, they share four children, including three sons named Sampras, Akira, and Yanik, with Sampras named after tennis great Pete Sampras, a figure Aravinda admires. Additionally, they have a daughter named Tiana. Aravinda is actively involved in charity work and public campaigns, particularly notable for his contributions to cancer patients. His commitment to philanthropy reflects his values of compassion and community service, showcasing his multifaceted character beyond the cricketing arena.
Beyond his illustrious cricketing career, Aravinda de Silva's passions span a diverse spectrum, showcasing a multifaceted personality. Renowned for his love of cricketing and various cuisines, wildlife, tennis, music, and snooker, Aravinda embodies a zest for life beyond the cricket field. Notably, his affection for sports cars has earned him the title of the "Mad Max" of road driving and racing among close friends, underscoring his adventurous spirit and love for adrenaline-fueled pursuits. This rich tapestry of interests adds depth to Aravinda's persona, portraying him as a man of varied tastes and boundless enthusiasm beyond the realm of cricket.
Apart from his family life and his involvement in cricket, De Silva is also the deputy chairman of Ideal Motors since the year of 2009