Anil Bharathi was the lead vocalist of the iconic band Golden Chimes before embarking on a successful solo career. His evergreen Christmas classic, Bethlehempure, remains a cherished melody in Sri Lanka, celebrated for over half a century. Written by legendary lyricist Karunaratne Abeysekera and composed by pop music maestro Clarence Wijewardena, the song continues to resonate deeply with audiences, transcending generations and religious boundaries.

Anil Bharathi began his musical journey as the lead vocalist of the Golden Chimes in the early 1970s. Known for his distinctive bass voice and innate musical talent, Anil became a crucial part of the band, excelling in both Sinhala and English songs. His first original Sinhala pop hit, Ada Wei Iiru Dina, with lyrics by Abeysekera and music by Wijewardena, was recorded on the Lotus label, one of Sri Lanka’s pioneering recording brands. Another memorable track, Ma Adarai Nangi, cemented his position as a household name in the Sri Lankan music scene.

In the late 1970s, Anil collaborated with Clarence and the Super Golden Chimes to release two immensely popular songs: Tikirimalee and Maa Mulin Liyu Pempatha. Written by Vernon Perera and recorded under the Gemtone label, these songs dominated the airwaves, topping hit parades on the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) and capturing the hearts of music lovers across the country.

Anil’s versatility and contribution to Sri Lankan music, along with his ability to bridge genres, left an indelible mark on the industry. His legacy will continue to inspire music enthusiasts for generations to come.