Bathi Gee Dayawa
In a harmonious collaboration, Sangeet Wickramasinghe and Sanuka Wickramasinghe unveiled an album resonating with spiritual essence, just in time for the Vesak festival in 2021. Titled “Bathi Gee Dayawa (Devotional Mercy),” this musical compilation features ten timeless ‘Bodu Bhati’ songs, each bearing the signature touch of Sangeet’s father, Daya Wickramasinghe, who composed and set the melodies over four decades ago.
The album breathes new life into these classical compositions, as both Sanuka and Sangeet Wickramasinghe have undertaken the responsibility of reproducing these sacred tunes in a fresh and contemporary light. The result is a melodic fusion that pays homage to tradition while appealing to a modern audience. “Bathi Gee Dayawa” features a diverse collection of spiritually infused tracks, each intricately woven with profound messages encapsulating the key events in the life of the Buddha, ranging from his birth to Parinirvana.
Concept & The Actual Setting
What sets this album apart is not just its musical brilliance but also the accompanying visual feast. Ten enchanting videos, meticulously crafted by Prasad Aluthwatta, accompany each track. Aluthwatta’s creative direction, cinematography, and visual concepts breathe life into the devotional narratives, creating a multimedia experience that transcends the auditory realm.
To share this musical journey with a broader audience, a one-hour television program featuring the entire collection was aired, a creation of VIHAYAS productions. This program marked a significant departure from the conventional, infusing a fresh perspective into Buddhist devotional traditions. The captivating visuals and soul-stirring melodies resonated with viewers, sparking a newfound appreciation for the cultural and spiritual significance embedded in the Vesak festival.
“Bathi Gee Dayawa” is not just an album; it is a testament to the transformative power of music and visual storytelling. Sangeet and Sanuka Wickramasinghe, along with the creative brilliance of Prasad Aluthwatta, have succeeded in creating a harmonious bridge between tradition and modernity, capturing the essence of Vesak in a way that resonates with audiences across generations. This musical offering not only pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Buddhism but also serves as a catalyst for a renewed spiritual experience, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of devotional music.
Credits
Performed by – Sanuka Wickramasinghe / Windy Goonathillake / Sangeeth Wickramasinghe
Creative Director – Prasad Aluthwattha
Director of Photography – Prasad Aluthwattha
Production Designer – Prasad Aluthwattha
Editor – Venura Navood
Visual & Motion Designer – Prasad Aluthwattha
Art Director – Nuwan Sanurankha
Camera Operators – U Rasta G Bandaragoda / Pasan Rathnayake / Nerun Kalpajith
Production Manager – U Rasta G Bandaragoda
Production Coordinator – Jayampathi Guruge
Production Asst. – Pathum Dharmarathne / Dushan Chanaka / Sahala Anees / Rumrkshi Shivanoo
Lighting Director – Prasad Aluthwattha
Lighting Crew – Samithra Jayasanka / Pavithra Madusanka / Sanuka Nimsara /
Kusum Priyantha / Shriyantha Manoj / Chamil Shriyantha (Omega VFX)
Camera Asst. – Shanaka Weerasinghe / Yasas
