Painting and singing are his passion

by Ananda Kannangara

When Prashan Deepthi Kumara was at the age of twelve, studying at Taxila Central College, Horana he became very popular among his teachers and colleagues for his paintings. At a tender age, he started sketching important personalities such as singers, film stars, musicians and also politicians. He also focused attention on sceneries and historical places in the country.

Prashan wanted to hold an exhibition of paintings of his own and after several years he was able to fulfil it. He has so far held four exhibitions, one in Colombo, two at Sigiriya Village and also at his alma-mater, Taxila College, Horana.

Among a number of paintings of personalities, the painting of Science fiction writer Sir Arthur C. Clark is one of to his credit he has so far painted several important personalities in the country, including the late Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike, Vijaya Kumaratunga, Malani Fonseka, Tony Ranasinghe, Victor Ratnayake, Premasiri Kemadasa etc..

During this period Prashan also focussed attention on music and singing. Becoming a singer was his childhood dream. He developed his musical career by singing at musical shows in his own village at Bandaragama in the Kalutara District.

Prashan released his maiden Compact Disc (CD) `Wasanthaye Rajadahana 'last week at a simple ceremony in Colombo with the participation of few of his close associates including the famous Science fiction writer Sri Arthur C. Clark. According to Prashan, Sir Clark is also a music lover. The first CD was presented to Dr. Clark.

The CD consist of 16 Sinhala songs. The lyrics were written by Prashan himself. Nelu Adikari has given her contribution for two songs. Music was provided by Mahinda Bandara, Mervin Priyantha and Nawaratna Gamage.

Prashan also remembers Victor Ratnayaka, Dharmasiri Gamage, Sarath Dasanayaka, Stanley Peris, Premasiri Kemadasa and P.V. Nandasiri for their invaluable support given to develop his musical career.