“Sanda Obai Piyanane”- A tribute concert to legendary singer Milton Mallawarachchi, was held at Haugh Performing Arts Center, Glendora on Saturday 20 January. Over 500 Sri Lankan Americans gathered in Glendora, some from as far as San Diego & Sacramento to enjoy the golden tunes. Milton Mallawarachchi is a considered the golden voice of Sri Lankan music. Some say his songs have been used to write a million love letters in the 80s. If you grew up in the 90’s you are sure to have overheard your parents listening to one of his 20 albums.
Organized by Nalanda College Old Boys Association of America (NCOBAA), this event was held to raise funds to aid the Nalanda College Development Fund. This fund provides finance to improve physical buildings ad sports facilities at Nalanda College, Sri Lanka.
Over 32 songs were sung by Ranil Mallawarachchi, the eldest son of Milton Mallawarachchi and Pavan Mallawarachchi, his grandson. They mesmerized the audience with golden tunes and refreshed the memories of Mallawarchchi fans in Los Angeles. Fans sang along the songs and enjoyed the show. The audience, was thrilled to indulge in the music supplied by nine of our very own musicians from Los Angeles. Vernon Fernando played Sax & Trumpet, Janaka Samaraweera was on Keyboards, Rakitha Shantha on Electric Rhythm Guitar, Germaine Fernando on Bass, Preeth Perera on Acoustic Rhythm Guitar, Aruna Ramanayaka on Drums, Rishi Takar on Tabla and Dolak and Nimal Fernando on Congas & Bongos. Music was directed by Chaminda Walpola, who also played Lead guitar.
The audience was at awe when Pavan came on stage and began singing. “It felt like Milton Mallawarachchi is singing” said a audience member. Everyone was clapping and singing along to the songs and when it was time to go, the audience kept saying One more!! “We truly enjoyed the show, it was amazing”
Ranil Mallawarachchi said he also very happy for the opportunity given to him to entertain his father’s fans in Los Angeles and contribute in his capacity for a very worthy cause for his Alma Mater, Nalanda College. It was Pavan’s first time in Los Angeles and he said that he truly enjoyed show and the love and the support he received from the fans. The organizing committee of NCOBAA were delighted at the response and the encouragement they received from the community to have this event.
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