Ananda Ganegoda: Pioneer in popularising Sinhala music

Ananda Ganegoda, the 80-year-old industrialist and pioneer in popularizing Sinhala music, passed away recently, marking the end of an era. As the last of the famous Ganegoda brothers, Ananda was a businessman par excellence, but his greatest legacy lies in his establishment of Singlanka, a music label founded in 1980.

Born into a family of talented individuals, Ananda was one of the children of Jineris Ganegoda, the son of Jineris' younger brother Johanis. Despite the family's significant contributions to Sri Lanka's economy by initiating garment factories in 1954, Ananda's impact on the nation transcended business.

Ananda's passion for music led him to found Singlanka, which played a crucial role in making Sinhala songs accessible to the masses. This move helped change the export economy, as many of Sri Lanka's non-traditional exports stemmed from the garment industry established by the Ganegoda brothers.

Throughout his life, Ananda was known for his generosity and kindness. He provided opportunities not only to famous artists like Amaradeva and Nanda Malini but also to lesser-known musicians, including Carlo Fonseka, whose talents were showcased through his compilation album "Calochita Gee."

Ananda's commitment to public health also left a lasting impression. During a visit to the Central Hospital in 1983, Ananda openly discussed his smoking habit with his doctor, promising to quit. While it is unclear if he fully succeeded, his reduction in consumption likely contributed to his longevity.

In his later years, Ananda played a peacemaking role, mediating a conflict within his family and supporting his niece's relationship with the son of a close relative. His efforts left a positive impact on those around him, and his memory continues to inspire.