Henry Caldera facts for kids

Henry Caldera (Sinhala: හෙන්රි කල්දේරා) was a famous Sri Lankan singer, songwriter, and musician. He was born on August 19, 1937. Henry Caldera passed away on October 11, 2006. He is remembered for his beautiful songs and his strong spirit.

Early Life and Education

Henry Caldera was born on August 19, 1937. When he was 14 years old, he became completely blind. He went to the Seeduwa Deaf and Blind School. At this school, Henry learned music from a great teacher named Sunil Shantha. Mr. Shantha taught music to students who were blind. Even after school, Henry kept learning from Mr. Shantha at his home.

Music Career

Henry Caldera started his music career on the radio in 1968. His first big hit song was Thara Petia, released in 1972. Later, in 1977, he released an album with four songs.

Throughout his life, Henry Caldera released three audio cassettes and two compact discs. Most of his songs were solos, meaning he sang them by himself. He also sang many children's songs. People say he often sang for his own children and grandchildren.

Awards and Recognition

Henry Caldera received special honors for his music. In 1979, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Ranasinghe Premadasa, gave him a house. This was a big help for Henry and his family.

In 1993, Henry Caldera received the Kala Bhushana award. This is a very important award in Sri Lanka. It is the second highest award given by the government to performing artists. Many student groups and other organizations also honored him. They thanked him for his amazing contributions to folk music.

Personal Life and Legacy

Henry Caldera believed that art was very special. He felt that no amount of money could truly buy an artist's talent. He held onto this belief throughout his life.

Henry Caldera had four children with his wife, who was also blind. He faced health challenges and passed away on October 11, 2006. His second son, Chaminda, continues to sing in his father's memory.

Popular Songs

Here are some of Henry Caldera's well-known songs:

• Thara Patiya
• Penuna Suwa Dasun
• Midule Sudu Weli Thalaye
• Eeye Udaye
• Lanka Mage Lanka
• Mokada Nago (Duet)
• Pemin Bandennai
• Oba Pewa Hasarella
• Sisila Sendaewe
• Kana Widina Wele
• Mal Natu Weni
• Andannepa Amme
• Samanala Siripa
• Melowa Thibena
• Suhadiniye
• Kanda Udin (Duet)
• Mage somi sanda
• Deva Meniyane
• Nahawa rasa kiri powa
• Hinaweyan sudu saman male
• Gayakayanani
• Mawage malagama
• Malli (Duet)
• Sanahase sihil nille (Duet)
• Budu Piye
• Etha Hime Ran Samanala Kanda Naginna
• Anna Duwe Handa Mama
• Hitha Ridunado Priye
• Sanda Aran Evilla
• Ninda Soya
• Sahayata Bhawa Saharawe
• Sihina Sandalle
• Mudu Sumudu Kumuda
• Dinindu Negi