Henry Caldera (August 19, 1937 – October 11, 2006 (aged 69)) was a Sri Lankan Singer/Songwriter/Musician.
Early life
Caldera was born on August 19, 1937. He went completely blind at 14 and attended Seeduwa Deaf and Blind school. Caldera became a radio artist in 1968 and had his first hit song with Thara Petia in 1972. He released a four song album in 1977.
During his lifetime he released three audio cassettes and two CD's. Most of the songs that he sang were Solos. Most of his songs are children's songs and many are based on true experiences. Caldera sang for his own children and as well as for his grand children.
Awards
In 1979 the then Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Ranasinghe Premadasa, donated a house for Caldera to live in. In the year 1993 he was felicitated with a Kala Bhushana award (the second highest award granted by the state for performing artists).
During his lifetime he was felicitated by several universities (student bodies) and non governmental organisations in appreciation of his service to folk music.
- Kala Bhushana Award - 1993
Caldera firmly believed that art is art and nothing could buy an artist and held on to that until he died.
Caldera had four children with his wife who was also blind. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2004 and died on October 11, 2006. he son Stanley Kaldera continue to perform Hendry Kaldera's songs in his memory.
Here are some of the songs by Henry Caldera which placed top place in Sri Lankan music.
Eeye Udaye - click here
Handannepa Amme - click here
Kana Widina Wele Kandule Gange - click here
Kanda Udin Payana - click here
Lanka Mage Lanka - click here
Mal Natu Wani - click here
Melowa Thibena Amila - click here
Midule Sudu Wali Thalaye - click here
Mokada Nago Himidiriye - click here
Oba Pawa Hasaralla - click here
Pemin Bandennai Pem Katha Kiyannai - click here
Piruna Suwa Dasun - click here
Samanala Siripa - click here
Sisila Handawe - click here
Surajiniye - click here
Thara Petiya - click here