‘Bookworms Odyssey’: Lit show on SLBC
View(s):By Sanath Weerasuriya
‘Bookworms Odyssey’ is a unique radio programme that brings timeless stories by legendary authors like William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, Frances Hodgson Burnett and Chingiz Aitmatov to life on the airwaves.
‘Bookworms Odyssey’ airs every Sunday at 6.30 pm on ‘Radio Sri Lanka’, the English Service of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) on 97.4 and 97.6 FM.
Dilshan de Mel and Chagee Dabare
The show is produced and hosted by Dilshan de Mel and Chagee Dabare, who bring stories to life through engaging narrations, voice acting and a touch of humour, complemented by music. The programme also features themed stories to suit special occasions such as Christmas, New Year, Avurudu, Valentine’s Day, and International Women’s Day.
With the guidance and supervision of Priyadarshini Gnanasena, Director of the English Service at the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation, Dilshan and Chagee continue to bring stories to life, inspiring a love for reading among listeners.
Additionally, presenter Chagee Dabare has created a platform for Sri Lankan original English songs. From Monday to Friday, between 8:00 AM and 12:00 noon, listeners can tune in to the same FM frequency to enjoy Homegrown English music.
For years, Sri Lankan Western musicians who compose original English songs have struggled with a major challenge—there has been no dedicated radio platform to showcase their work. As a result, many talented artistes have been discouraged from creating original music, instead focusing on covering popular international hits at functions, concerts, and performances. Most local radio stations have prioritised foreign English songs, leaving little space for homegrown talent to thrive.
Despite these obstacles, some dedicated Sri Lankan artistes have continued to compose original English music, contributing to the country’s Western music culture. Legendary musicians such as Manella Joseph, Mariazelle Gunathilaka, Thrishula Abeysekara, Lankika Perera, Lucky Deva, Sohan Weerasinghe, Priya Peiris, and many more have kept the flame alive with their original compositions.
The presenter Chagee Dabare said Sri Lanka’s airwaves are ready to boost and promote good-quality, original English songs in any style to play during her music segments.
Searching for that next furry family member but couldn’t find one in your area? Hitad.lk has the solution with our extensive listings of dogs for sale in Sri Lanka!