Bandula Wijeweera Felicitated

Bandula Wijeweera is known by all as a veteran in the Art sphere in Sri Lanka. His natural instinct towards mesmerizing any audience as an actor and a singer is magical. His unique style of presenting himself and spinning yarns to entertain audiences is loved by all.

Wijeweera was felicitated recently for his unmatched service to the nation for decades as a resourceful artiste. ‘Bandula Wijeweera Prathyavalokana Buhuman 2023’ organized by Wayamba Kavi Sanvidhanaya was held at Alawwa Town Hall on September 30.

Maha Sangha bestowed blessings upon the artiste.

The event provided sheer entertainment for scholars, journalists, lyricists, musicians, singers, actors and art lovers who flocked to see their much loved artiste being felicitated. Wijeweera sang a string of his popular songs while interacting with the audience.

Speaking at the event, Wijeweera paid gratitude to his mentors at Government College of Fine Arts aka Heywood(now known as the University of Visual and Performing Arts), late Dayananda Gunawardene, Rohana Beddage, Dr Victor Ratnayake, his associates and fans who appreciated his work over the years.

“There are exceptionally good singers and musicians in the new generation. However, while experimenting with diverse genres of music and singing styles, they should also bear in mind to maintain the Sri Lankan identity in their creations. Youngsters shouldstudy Sri Lankan folk music styles and blend that with their creations”, he said.

In 1970s Bandula Wijeweera’s maiden song, ‘Dotha Pura Muthu Mala Latha’ penned by Upali Dhanawalawithana was aired on radio. Veteran playwright Dayananada Gunawardene casted him as the Match-maker in his stage drama ‘Nari Bena” in 1973.

In later years Wijeweera teamed up with resourceful folklore singer and melody maker Rohana Beddage as ‘Mamai-Benai’ to create a string of songs in folk music genre that elevated the duo to stardom. Rupavahini’s ‘Nanadana Vindana’ monthly variety program was a platform for the duo to showcase their talents.

Wijeweerasang ‘Kulagederin Dumbara kanduwetiye’ in the film Hulawali. Dr Victor Ratnayake was the music maker.

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