Nalanda felicitates 'Karu Aiya'

By Susitha R Fernando

"Sandawata Rantharu" a musical show to felicitate late announcer and wordsmith Karunaratne Abeysekara organized by Nalanda College Old Boy's Association will go on the boards on September 30, 2006 at 6 pm at BMICH.

This show features a mix of both classical and popular artistes in the Sri Lankan music scene for whom Karunaratne Abeysekara penned lyrics. Pandit W. D. Amaradeva, Visharada Nanda Malani, Lata Walpola, Victor Ratnayake, Priyankara Perera, Ranil Mallawarachchi, Mohan Raj, Susil Fernando, Dayaratne-Amara Ranatunga, with their evergreen songs. Talented young musician Navaratne Gamage directs music while choreography will be by the Budawaththa Dancing troupe.

Born on the 30th June 1930 at Posathugoda, Bambarenda in Matara the late Mr. Abeysekara entered Nalanda College in 1942 where he first gained his initial knowledge on the arts which opened the doors into the world of arts. Having excelled in many fields of arts, Mr. Abeysekara showed an immense talent in writing lyrics. His records shows him to be the person who wrote the most number of songs some which were inspirational and instant hits in the local music scene. Most of his songs are still accepted by the common man for their simplicity.
It was Mr. U. A. S. Perera the then teacher in charge of Sinhala section at the Nalanda College and who was also popularly known as "Siri Aiya" at SLBC who got Mr. Abeysekera involved in children's programs. This paved the way for Karu Aiya to widen his creativeness. During this time Karu Aiya contributed to newspapers. In 1948, the year of independence he published two books titled 'Mage Mawbima' and 'Kshemaboomi'.

Mr. Karunaratne was a member of the Nalanda College's debating team during 1946-50, where he developed his skills in oratory.

He joined the State Film Corporation as a compere in 1952. He produced and featured particularly at events such as the funeral of D. S. Senanayake, visit of Queen Elizebeth and the funeral of late Mr. S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike.

Karu Aiya was also highly thought for his multi-talented creativeness in making poems, film diologues classical songs, children programs, live broadcasts and commercial advertisements. In 1969, Mr. Abeysekara was awarded the best film lyrist by Sarasaviya Film Festival. He was also recognized as the lyrist who made most number of songs for the state film industry.