Prime Minister Chief Guest at Buddhist Cantata “Pirinivan Mangalya” staged at ‘Temple Trees’
 

The Buddhist Cantata, “Pirinivan Mangalya” of maestro Premasiri Khemadasa was staged at the ‘Temple Trees’ yesterday (10) in parallel with the United Nations Day of Vesak 2017. This remarkable musical programme was graced by the Prime Minister, Hon. Ranil Wickremesinghe as the Chief Guest. The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne was also present on the occasion.

Maestro Premasiri Khemadasa’s “Pirinivan Mangalya” is probably the only Buddhist Cantata ever composed in the world. The beautifully knit music direction of the Cantata was done by Gayathri Khemadasa, the daughter of the maestro. The provision of music in this musical event was done by the Officer in Charge of the oriental band of Sri Lanka Navy, Commander Shantha Rupasinghe under the careful supervision of Director of Music, Commodore Jude Peiris.

Accordingly, the spectators were able to witness a rare musical experience with high standards largely due to the exceptional performances of the members of Navy’s music ensemble who toiled really hard for this worthy cause. The Hon. Prime Minister along with Madam Wickremesinghe, religious dignitaries and distinguished guests who attended this evening were extremely fascinated by this remarkable musical experience and highly appreciated the performances of the Navy.

The occasion was also attended by Venerable Mahanayaka Theras, Minister of. Parliamentary Reforms & Mass Media, Hon. Gayantha Karunathilaka, the President of the Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs. Yamuna Wijegunaratne, distinguished invitees and a large number of officers as well.