“Ama dahara diya gala gala…” was the song that marked the commencement of the proceedings for the “Ama Dahara” Buddhist musical recital held at the Parliament recently. The event that took place on the 11^th of December 2006 at the Committee Room 1 of the Parliamentary complex was organized by the Parliament Staff Buddhist Association. As you might have guessed by now, the vocalist was none other than Veteran musician Victor Ratnayake himself.

Accompanied by his own orchestra together with his elder son Jayantha, the maestro was seeing spell bounding the audience present. Among the eight numbers performed were songs such as “Ama dahara”, “Aaadaraye ulpatha woo amma”, “Budu hamuduruwo apith dakinna ethi”, “Devram vehere”, etc. This one and a half hours of musical trance was of immense value as the singer took time in explaining the story behind each song together with its meaning and contributors. It was indeed a rare occasion where an audience refrains from clapping in order to maintain the serenity emanating from the performer’s vocals.

After the conclusion of the event, the Hon. Speaker made a special vote of thanks to Mr. Victor Ratnayake and his crew, while a commemorative shield was presented to him by The Parliament Staff Buddhist Association. Souvenirs including Buddhist books were presented to the members of the band as well.

The Hon. Speaker, Secretary General of Parliament, Higher Officials and Members of the staff attended to witness the event. It was a very large and sundry gathering in spite of religious differences. “Ama Dahara” certainly proved to be a refreshing experience for the staff members following a tedious budget period.

The event was sponsored by the Bank of Ceylon Parliament branch.