‘Si Raja’ uncovers the history of Sigiriya
Focusing on the epic and emptional tale of King Kashyapa, ‘Si Raja’ the latest historical teledrama series is now being telecast on Swarnavahini television channel.The series features a line-up of actors and actresses including Bimal Jayakodi, Akila Dhanundra, Yashoda Wimaladharma, Roshan Pilapitiya and Sathischandra Edirisinghe and the entire script is based on an extensive research study.
‘Si Raja’ was allocated one of Swarnavahini’s biggest production budgets to date and was conceptualised and directed by Jackson Anthony. Currently airing its fifth episode, the series retells the story of the controversial sovereign Kashyapa, who converted the Sigiriya rock into a residential palace and fortress during his reign from 479 to 497 CE.
Today the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is considered a national wonder and is heralded as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
‘Si Raja’, which is aired on Swarnavahini every Saturday at 8.30 p.m., brings to light the heart-wrenching story that is interwoven into Sigiriya’s ancient past and highlights the early days of King Kashyapa’s rule.
Commenting on the ‘Si Raja’ teledrama series, the show’s director Jackson Anthony stated, “The ‘Si Raja’ teledrama series is based on historical facts and was produced to invoke curiosity and remind the Sri Lankan public of the rich heritage of the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The conversion of Sigiriya marks an important milestone in the life of King Kashyapa and today Sigiriya stands as a lasting reminder of the capabilities and power of Sri Lanka’s early rulers. We put a great deal of effort into ensuring that the series is factually accurate and we hope that it will provide a thrilling window into the mystery, allure and tragedy that surround the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and King Kashyapa’s reign. I would like to extend my gratitude to the entire crew and production team for their tireless commitment, which has resulted in the creation of a high-quality and truly captivating series.”
The ‘Si Raja’ teledrama series explores important questions about the fortress and the king’s life. The story highlights why King Kashyapa built Sigiriya, it provides more information about the architect behind the fortress as well as the artist who created the famous wall of frescoes. King Kashyapa was the son of King Dathusena and the dramatic entanglement between them is retold in ‘Si Raja’. The series depicts the many different aspects of King Kashyapa’s character and skilfully retells the story of his rise to sovereignty and his fall from power.
‘Si Raja’ is one of many teledramas that are produced and broadcast by the Swarnavahini television channel. Since its launch in 1997, Swarnavahini has remained dedicated to delivering high quality programming and reaching out to an extensive audience base across Sri Lanka.
