Sri Lanka’s first-ever telethon for selfless COVID-19 health workers

Sohan

 Miraj

Inspired by the exemplary methods deployed by the Government, which in close collusion with the health sector, the armed services and the police department are combating Covid-19, the concept of ‘Arise Sri Lanka’ was born. 

This novel event will be presented on 29 August from Nelum Pokuna in the form of a telethon to raise funds exclusively for the selfless, dedicated health workers who are doing their utmost to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The brainchild of Elite Promotions and Entertainment Chairman Richard de Zoysa who relentlessly pursued obtaining the necessary approvals, this unique event is one that will be unprecedented in scope. De Zoysa’s perseverance was finally paid off when Dr. Anil Jasinghe finally granted permission for an outdoor event with just 100 attendees, thus adhering strictly to stipulated health guidelines.

The show produced and directed by de Zoysa will be headlined by the X’Periments and Mirage who will back the cream of western musicians taking to the stage on 29 August.

Sahan Gunawardene will raise the curtain with his inimitable rendition of ‘Ratata Waasana Wewa’. Mahindhakumar will sing a Tamil hit while Sohan will mesmerise the audience with a pulsating ‘Baila’ session.

De Zoysa has also requested the legendary artistes to compose a world-class hit, especially for the occasion titled ‘A new world’. Noeline Honter has written the song with Sohan’s assistance and entrusted Melantha to produce the musical arrangement. They are on course to catch the attention of the world as Arise Sri Lanka will be live streamed to the entire planet. The show will be punctuated with scenic visuals of Sri Lanka, but will also showcase to the world how Sri Lanka with its limited resources has rallied together to contain the pandemic far ahead of more affluent nations. Thus Arise Sri Lanka will showcase to the world our manifold tourist attractions, highlight our musicians and show the world how we countered and contained COVID-19. 

Although not officially aligned to the event, the local offices of the WHO have offered their help with guidelines and other relevant information.

The organisers of Arise Sri Lanka have also requested the Ministry of Health to open a designated bank account to facilitate donor deposits and income received through SMS pledges. de Zoysa envisions a huge inflow of funds as aid, in the event the print and electronic media intensifies the awareness of this novel fundraiser . With the vast volume of SIM cards dispensed by the mobile network providers, a mere donation of Rs. 10 will amass a phenomenal collection.

Sohan’s and Donald’s bands will back legends in the music industry such as Rajitha of Misty, Ranil of Black, Noeline who will also compere the Telethon together with Sohan, Rukshan and Melantha Perera, Mariazelle, Sherriden, Umara, Damien, Kevin and Corrine Almeida, Marlon, and Bonny.

Richard will also take this opportunity to present the next generation of stars, namely Trehelle, Shiyam and Sharmistar, Ishini Fonseka and April Shockman.

De Zoysa is also attempting an international link with Global Citizens to propel Arise Sri Lanka worldwide as it works in partnership with the NGO sector and corporate sponsors to deliver audience and value in impactful ways. The movements unique ability to mobilise mass audiences will, without doubt give Arise Sri Lanka a much needed shot in the arm.