A musical Tribute to legends Victor and Priya
View(s):- ‘Chamathkara Rathriya’ to honour Dr. Vicotr Ratnayake and Priya Suriyasena
By Susitha R. Fernando
Sanka Dineth
Nadimal Perera
Two icons of Sri Lankan music- Dr. Victor Ratnayake and the late Priya Suriyasena, will be celebrated in grand style at ‘Chamathkara Rathriya’, a special musical evening presented by Sirasa FM. The tribute concert will take place on August 2 at 7.00 p.m. at the Musaeus College Auditorium in Colombo.
A stellar lineup of veteran and young artistes will come together to honour the timeless contributions of these musical greats. The evening will feature performances by Marinas leader Nalin Perera, Samitha Mudunkotuwa, Sanka Dineth, Nadimal Perera, Raini Charuka, Iroshi Suriyasena and Lakshitha Suriyasena- representing the enduring musical legacy of both legends.
The musical direction will be led by the renowned Mahesh Denipitiya, backed by a distinguished orchestra featuring some of the country’s finest musicians. The event will showcase not only the popular songs of Dr. Victor Ratnayake and Priya Suriyasena but also their memorable compositions that continue to resonate with generations.
Nalin Perera
Raini Charuka
‘The musical creations of these two icons reflect the society, culture, lifestyle, and political backdrop of their times. It is vital that this rich musical heritage is preserved and passed on to future generations’ stated the Sirasa FM organising team.
‘Chamathkara Rathriya’ promises to be an unforgettable evening of melody, memory, and cultural celebration.
Started his musical journey as a singer in July 1963 with a song ‘Dewagana Parada’ written by A. Piyasena Costa for a radio drama titled ‘Manichora”, Victor registered an iconic voice in Sri Lanka music.
His initial songs or sarala gee were ‘Sinda binda Mohanduru Paapa’ and ‘Golu Muhude muthu Ate’ penned by the late wordsmith Arisen Ahubudu. Started with these songs, ‘Sa’ musical concerts started on July 20, 1973 by Mr. Ratnayake were a juncture in his musical journey as well as in the country. Victor’s journey around Sri Lanka and around the world marked a record 1500 concerts.
Lakshitha Suriyasena
Iroshi Sooriyasena
Recognising his invaluable service to Sri Lanka’s music, Victor was awarded a Doctorate in Literature by the University of the Visual and Performing Arts in Sri Lanka on June 18, 2023 in recognition of his contributions to Sinhala music.
Born as Medawala Liyanage Don Sarachchandra Priyadarshi Suriyasena Liyanage and went on with his stage name Priya Suriyasena, sang his first song ‘Andura Andura Mage’ in 1968 and during his musical journey he sang a large number of songs and also composed hundreds of others until he passed away on December 24, 2024.
Samitha Mudunkotuwa
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