I remember the time in the late forties when we had a gramophone at home. One of the 78 rpm records we had was Hubert Rajapaksa's original version of "Danno Budunge". One of the newer versions is by Nelu Adhikari and Kapila Pugalarachchi. The accompanying visuals are beautiful.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNscsV2SRTo
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Lucky- Blog Administrator !
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely way to start the New Year !
So beautiful, elegant, graceful - divine!
Makes one feel proud to be SriLankan and hope that our country can pull together with this same grace.
A lovely composition not lacking in history - Thank you for bringing it to us.
This is the song I associate growing up in Nugegoda in the late 40's and 50's. It was truly rural with such few cars on the road and buggy carts ferried us around. The new version is lovely but I still prefer the old version I grew up with as the vocals with the scratches on the 78 RPM's remain closer to my soul. There was also one by Rukmani Devi which was brilliantly sung like the true opera singer she was. Thank you for that page from my past.
ReplyDeleteA beautifully sung classic. Readers may recall the Nation wide debate caused by the operatic style version sung by Sri Lankan Soprano singer Kishani Jayansinghe at the 68th Independence celebration at Galle Face Green in 2016. I loved this version although many didn't. That's OK- tastes differ but she didn't deserve the vitriolic and horrible comments she received.
ReplyDeleteLucky. I am going to send you an article for consideration for the Blog about the history of this beautiful song.
For the moment, I would like to point out that this song is not about Lord Buddha but a description (warnanawa) of Anuradhapura as my good friend Dr Ruwan De Soysa pointed out. "Three princes Sangatissa, Sangabo and Gotabhaya are returning to Anuradhapura after finishing their education. This song is sung as they were crossing the Tisa Wewa bridge. The meaning of the first verse: Anuradhapura is a place where people who knows the teachings of Lord Buddha (ධර්මස්කන්ධය) resides. There are many bhikkus who live in Lowa Maha Paya (රහතුන් නිවසනා පාය). Unlike many other versions by famous singers, Soul Sounds pronounce 'නිවසනා පාය' correctly. Second verse: Anuradhapura where the Buddha sasana resides, is like a heaven on earth (භූ ලෝ මතේ මේ දෙව් ලෝ පෑවාසේ). 'එර්දියෙන් යන්නාවු රහතුන්' is a metaphor for the clouds which gives cover from the heat of the sun.Third verse: After crossing this pond full of lilies and seru birds, Anuradhapura can be seen at the distance".
I would also like to provide more links for lovely versions of this song.
By Soul Sounds (2011): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edLcOSLjrho
By Dalrene Arnolda (1970s) (He aunt is the famous Mignone of Jetliners)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iso_B5UnC_8
Hubert Rajapaksa on HMV. 1943.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7yAsyZ0nUE
Amaradeva: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHCxvFbEXko
Many thanks for your comments. This is specially for Rohini, ND and Speedy.
ReplyDeleteSpeedy, please do send your article. I am one who liked Kishani Jayasinghe's "Opera" version. After all the nasty comments about KJ, I watched Kishani come on a special TV program to explain the version. Although I am a great admirer of Amaradeva, I didn't like his version of "Danno Budunge" which had a different tune and even different lyrics. What I posted is very much akin to Rukmani Devi's version.
Thank you Speedy for the link to Hubert Rajapaksa's original version. I have not heard it for a long, long time. Didn't even know that it is available on YouTube.
Lucky, thank you for starting this discussion of this beautiful song. Speedy, thank you for the background history and the additional links. I was in Sri Lanka when the uproar over Kishani J's interpretation erupted. I thought she sang it beautifully and did not understand why people objected. I will listen to the different versions in the next few hours and add another comment, even though I am no music critic.
ReplyDeleteIt has been such a great pleasure to listen to Danno Budunge, not to write a critical review, but to enjoy the beauty of the wonderful lyrics and melody of this iconic piece of music which pulls on my chordae tendineae. Each singer has given it his/her interpretation leaving it their signature. As we strongly associate the piece with our heritage and country just like the National Anthem it generates strong emotions hence the comments. Kishani J sings it like an operatic piece at the Royal Opera House which may appeal to some. Amaradeva has left his mark changing the melody as he ambles along which is not to my liking as its melody is iconic and sacrosanct. Hubert R and Rukmani's versions which I grew up with, show its age but brings back memories of people and places like no other. Dalrene Arnolda version is faster and this may appeal to some. I like very much the Nelu Adhikari and Kapila Pugalarachchi version which has a beautiful arrangement with orchestra and choir. It brings this iconic piece to the 21st Century.
ReplyDeleteThose who attended Christian schools ,like I did, will remember the Hymn for Ceylon composed by Rev W.S Senior who was the Vice Principal of Trinity College for a decade from 1906. It is sung to the tune of Danno Budunge. Rev Senior loved Ceylon and has written poems showing his affection. He left Ceylon in 1936 but wanted his ashes buried in his favourite St Andrew's Church in Haputale. His works are available in Wikipedia.
ReplyDeleteI love Rev Senior's Hymn for Ceylon as it brings back memories of those happy times of school and country. His dedication and service to education in Ceylon will always be remembered with gratitude.
This discussion inspired me to listen to the different versions of "Dhanno Budunge on the links, as well as search for more information about the song. (I hope my information, found on the web, is accurate.) The song was first featured in a play by John de Silva "Sri Sangabo," in 1903. The lyrics are by John de Silva (who was a Christian) and the melody by Wiswanath Lowgi, from India. I think the first version I heard was on a 78 rpm by Deva Surya Sena, which my father owned. I also sang "The Hymn for Ceylon" which ND has referred to, many times during my childhood. Of the interpretations I listened to, I liked the version by Nelu A. and Kapila P. The Amaradeva version was soulful and different, but I liked the Soul Sounds versions the best. They did one with a western choir which was really beautiful. I didn't care much for Dalrene Arnolda's version. This is entirely my personal opinion. I wish I could have listened to Kishani J.'s rendition again, but I couldn't find it. Music and art is all about interpretation and I didn't understand why certain narrow minded people gave her such a hard time. Soundarie David, the Musical Director of Soul Sounds said it best "People's opinion on a song, a rendition of it, is very subjective, and everyone is entitled to their own opinion. But to make statements that are based on wrong presumptions or assume that a particular piece of music belongs to a particular segment of people, religion, or otherwise is in my humble opinion wrong. Music is universal, music cuts through all barriers, and music is in my opinion the perfect tool to bridge various differences created by mankind. Kishani's rendition of Dhanno Budunge, was delivered with utmost respect with all true intentions. She is a world class opera singer who has brought honour to the country. Why shouldn't she sing something truly Sri Lankan, in the medium she knows best? Name calling, and the derogative statements made after her performance were totally uncalled for."
ReplyDeleteSriani
ReplyDeleteHere is Kishani's version: https://www.google.com/search?q=kishani+jayasinghe+danno+budunge&oq=kishani+Jayasinghe&aqs=chrome.4.69i59j0j69i60l2j69i59j0.8574j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
It is sung beautifully and it is totally wrong of people to make derogatory comments. It is not my preferred version but that is something very personal.
I have heard Kishani sing Summertime from Gershwin's Porgy and Bess. It is simply brilliant and it is a world class performance. What a talent and very proud to say she is from my country of birth.
Kishani sang for Prince Charles at his 60th birthday celebration at Buckingham Palace as well as for Queen Elizabeth as a Commonwealth Arts Representative. She is also a qualified lawyer with LLB and LLM. Above all she has performed for many charities. We must respect her as a fine soprano, intelligent person and a wonderful human being.
DeleteI was beginning to think that I was the only one who had heard this song sung by Deva Suryasena, as I have not been able to find a version by him on YouTube.
ReplyDeleteI was 6 years of age when I heard this song for the first time in a school hall which reverberated with the wonderful voice of D Suryasena live-
It was sung by him as Dharma Budunge, which was the same I had heard for quite a while subsequently at weddings etc. I am not certain whether it was sung as Danno Budunge in the play Sri Sangabo-
I specifically like the Nelu and Kapila presentation of this song with the serene visuals which brings an added dimension to this beautiful song.
It makes it a true composite of the many contributory elements.
From the origins of the music said to be adapted from church music by Wagner 150 years ago in Liepzig, to the description of the surrounds of the seat of Theravada Buddhism in SriLanka, accompanied by musicians from India, completing the Indian influence on SriLankan dancing in the beautiful video- specifically the graceful body work and the beautiful mudras of the hands as found in both North and South Indian dance forms.
Deva Suryasena live was memorable, and this version by Nelu and Kapila is very beautiful. Thanks Lucky.
Some months ago, I had the privilege of discussing the origin of the music for
ReplyDeleteDunno Budunge and the Hymn for Ceylon with music historian cum writer NIhal - ND
We both had heard this music as part of some old western classics, but couldn’t quite remember which. I was very grateful when he did the research and came up with 2 very interesting articles on its origins. Hence the credit for the info re its origin in German church music should go to Nihal.
Srianee -Iam so happy you’ve heard the version by Suryasena. I was disappointed It wasn’t on YouTube.
ReplyDeleteRohini
DeleteIf my memory serves me correct the version I've heard so often as a child was that of Deva Surya Sena. Listening to Hubert R was from a 78 RPM on a HMV winding gramaphone using metal needles - a must have in those distant days.
To digress, I wonder if you recall Charlie Kunz playing the piano with his characteristic style. I still listen to him to bring back old memories.
Rohini and ND, I will try and locate the Suryasena version of this beautiful song when I get to Colombo, in just a couple of days!!
DeleteNihal and Rohini, thank you for these additional insights regarding the origins of the melody of Dhanno Budunge. Do either one of you recall what the name of the German classical (church) piece was? Nihal, thank you for sending the link to Kishani J's performance at the Independent Day celebrations. I finally found the time to listen to it again. It was beautiful in its own way, and was performed with absolute sincerity. There is no single way to perform a beautiful piece of music. We see this all the time with other great works of music performed by artists and orchestras, who imprint their own styles when they perform. And Rohini, it is true that when I first heard this song, I heard it as "Dharma Budunge." I wonder why the words were changed? That could start another discussion!!
ReplyDeleteSrianee
DeleteI cannot for the life of me remember the link to that information. This was a surprise to us all. I will try to fetch it rummaging my emails.
This all I could find
DeleteAdditional information by Dr. Susiri Weerasekara
It might interest you to know that the Danno Budunnge tune and original misc was created as a church song by /Richard Wagner of Liepzig Germany about 150 years ago.
The tune is commonly sung at Christian churches in Sri Lanka.
Also the same tune is used in as the college hymn of St John’s college Jaffna (Anglican). I heard it there a few months back. St Johnss existed since around 1830.
When did they adopt it?
The Sinhalese words can be traced to the drama ‘Sirisangabo’ by John De Silva around 1915 –or so, not sure of date? I do not know if he used the same tune- possible.
The first song sung to Wagner’s tune can be traced to G.C. Rajapakse who sings it in high pitch ( G) as in the church style. This was recorded by him, with Indian musicians coming over by ship led by- I believe Lao Je. The 78 rpm record exists.
I have a record of about 10 singers including Mohideen Baig, and last by Amaradeva singing it in different style, but all of a lower pitch.
Dr Susiri Weerasekera is from the 1960 entrants to Colombo Faculty and someone nay be able to contact him being an orthopaedic surgeon. Here is a link http://1960medicalbatchcolombo.blogspot.com/2012/12/danno-budunge-s-jehova-thou-hast.html?m=1
DeleteNihal I have missed getting here as usual, by a few days but my words though are as sincere as those above. Thanks, Nihal, for this latest gem from your pen. Your description of a Sunset leaves the reader speechless! It even draws attention to the dark cloud which adds to the variety and beauty than being one of foreboding- well, whether it is Tagore's or Thomas Gray’s words or yours, it is the same as you are a poet in your own right. You have had a beautiful childhood and that beauty has carried on to adulthood and professional life and we now benefit from what you say as it lightens our load and makes us look for beauty even in the darkest day, in our own journey and it lightens the burden in our twilight years. Thank you, Nihal! From Zita
ReplyDeleteZita
ReplyDeleteThank you. As always with supportive and encouraging comments.
I am compiling my story on this great song and will presently submit it to the BA for consideration.Watch this space! It won't be short of controversy!
ReplyDeleteAlthough there is one truth there are many ways to get there. Looking forward to it. Good luck.
DeleteOK Mahen, we'll be waiting... There is so much knowledge being shared here!
DeleteNihal, Sorry I lost the line briefly-
ReplyDeleteThank you for responding to Srianee’s request - that is as far as I could go too.
Iam glad you heard Deva Surya Sena. I well remember those little metal boxes with little metal needles ! The HMV logo so fascinated me then!
I do like Charlie Kunz’s easy and relaxed style of playing- I played a lot of it during the time Natasha was tap dancing- it was the perfect music for it with the seamless changes in tempo for slow and fast tapping specially for exam work.
I think those medleys were for ballroom dancing anyway -
Thank you for bringing back those lovely memories - shall get back to listening to more.
Rohini
ReplyDeleteI listened to a lot of Charlie Kunz growing up. Love his unique relaxed style changing from soft to loud. I can’t describe it appropriately other than call it syncopation. I’m willing to be educated on this!! Wonderful to know you’ve liked him too.
You’ve got it Nihal- It is the accentuation of the “off beats” - syncopation- that makes it nice. As you can imagine- tap dancing is also a form of syncopation in dancing with the tapping occurring in between the main beats of the music - so delightful - The dancing fraternity prefer to call them ‘double beats’ and ‘triple beats’ etc !
ReplyDeleteThe other master of syncopation is Scott Joplin with his ‘ragtime’ and the well known ‘ entertainer’.
You’d also remember the ‘Syncopated Clock’ which I heard so impressively done by the London Philharmonic orchestra when they came to SL during our school days with conductor Sir Malcolm Sargent.
I think you got to this concert in a hangar at Ratmalana too.
They also did a brief concert at the Ladies’ College hall with a limited orchestra-
ReplyDeleteSrianee might remember.
Rohini, You have an a remarkable memory! I don't remember this particular concert, but I do remember that there were many outstanding performances at the LC hall, when it was the only venue of its size. Now there are many air conditioned halls that are preferred by visiting performers, groups and orchestras (Museus College, Bishop's College and the monstrous 'Nelum Pokuna'). I have a vivid memory of the LC hall, when during one lunch period I was walking past the open side doors of the hall and heard some beautiful music. My friends and I peeked inside and saw Marian Anderson rehearsing for that evening's performance. We walked in, sat down, and watched her until it was time to leave. No one asked us to leave. It was memorable, listening to this world famous contralto, up close. I think we knew who she was, because there had been a lot of publicity about her visit.
DeleteWow what great memories of that concert in the Ratmalana hangar all those years ago. Remember the syncopated clock. Of Scot Joplin I recall an uncle who used to belt away those emotional songs ‘Ma Ma’ etc after a drink or too only to be carefully ushered out at the end of the party amidst much applause. His family left embarrassed. Ah! How time has flown. I must listen to them again to relive those halcyon days of wine and roses.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteSorry I mistook Scot Joplin for Al Jolson. Yes I recall the entertainer what a piece for the piano!
DeleteThat's OK Nihal!!! Scott Joplin's ragtime music is a favorite of many!
DeleteHi everyone, I am sending you a link to a YouTube post by my nephew, Dr. Shehan Silva, done in 2009. It is a trilingual version of the "Hymn for Ceylon" sung by the Methodist College choir. Shehan compiled the visuals and has some notes about the hymn, as well (He attributes the music to R. Wagner!)
ReplyDeleteI think you will have to copy and paste this link. Enjoy!
https://youtu.be/ODM_TsQ8N9U
Srianee
DeleteThank you so much for that post. It is simply brilliant and takes me back to school assembly with 500 young voices singing, virtually lifting the roof. Rev WS senior will turn in his grave at St Andrew’s Church Haputale, hearing the wonderful harmony and his words sung with such passion. There is something about hymns that pulls on the heart strings. This about Ceylon rises above all others. My thanks to the Methodist College Choir for singing this hymn so beautifully.
Srianee, Your cousin has done a good deal of research and taken great care to do this video and notes. There is much information in there which has to be digested at leisure. I wonder whether he would know precisely the name of the piece of music by Wagner from which the tune originated-
ReplyDeleteHi all,
ReplyDeleteMahendra directed me to your interesting discussion. I have studies the origin of this song in depth. You may find some of my comments under the clips you have mentioned above. Thought I would point out some interesting facts.
1. Shehan Silva was the person who published the myth about the tune adapted from Richard Wagner's music piece. He 'remembers' Lylie Godridge making a reference to that effect. I challenged him to provide the relevant RW piece but he could not do so until this date.
2 My friend Jude Goonewardena wrote to a Wagner expert in Germany and asked if he could recognize a Wagner piece akin to the melody. The answer was negative. Jude will be addressing the SL Literary Society on the 2nd of March 2019. We can get the details from him on the day.
3. During the Kishani saga, I rose to her defence and challenged people who were abusive to her on YT. To my surprise, no less a person than PM Ranil W. gave a TV interview on the subject. Although I am not a fan of him, I learnt few things from it. Please view the interview here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ulIuYso2PxQ
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ReplyDelete#lac_viet_audio
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