‘Aluth Kalaawak’ Sinhala music festival launched with short-film premier

Several prominent personalities are seen at the premier Pic by: Kushan Pathiraja

• Aluth Kalaawak was not just a local sensation, it crossed borders, touching the hearts of Sri Lankans living overseas as well, say organizers

By Pranavesh Sivakumar

A short film, setting up a Sinhalese musical festival, Aluth Kalaawak, was premiered on Monday at the PVR cinemas, One Galle Face, amidst dozens of Sinhala musicians and distinguished invitees.

“It is stunning and thoroughly encouraging to see such a recap from the past. These are not only for the youngsters, these are for all Lankans,” said former minister Sagala Ratnayaka.

Janith Perera, the producer said, “This is a celebration of memory meets music. 2000-2010, the golden era of Sinhala music, with Iraj, BnS (Bathiya and Santhush) et al would be celebrated at this full-scale two-day music festival.”

“In the country, there has only been a history of music concerts. Here, I’m elevating it to a music festival”, he added.   

Bathiya Jayakody of BnS, said, “Fantastic event. For the first time, you will see all the artists from the 2000-2010 era and for the first time, you will see all of them performing on the same stage.”  

“It’s wonderful to hear our song featured in this. It brings back a lot of memories and glad to see it has happened,” he said.

Aluth Kalaawak is slated to be staged on July 25-26, in Port City, from 3pm. to 1am, featuring artists, household names in Sinhala music. 

Popular artist, Dushyanth Weeraman, also speaking on the occasion said, “Definitely, a milestone of the people having been in that era with us. Today was a day that we ourselves realized the impact we have had on the industry. I was never able to do a music video for my very first song, therefore was touchy and emotional to an extent.”

This is a groundbreaking concert series launched in 2023, dedicated to reviving the unforgettable Sinhala hits of the 2000-2010. By bringing legendary artists and nostalgic tunes back to the stage, it created a vibrant memory lane for the 90s, echoing the songs of their childhood, while taking the middle-aged audience on an emotional journey back to the youthful days. 

Aluth Kalaawak was not just a local sensation, it crossed borders, touching the hearts of Sri Lankans living overseas as well, organizers said. 

With eleven remarkable concerts held under unique themes like Aluth Kalaawak – the Legends Are Back, Aluth Kalaawak One Last Time, Aluth Kalaawak Once More, and now Aluth Kalaawak Never Forgets, this musical journey has proven to be unforgettable.