UMARIA SINHAWANSA

Youngest A Grade Singer Accolade from SLBC

I’ve worked very hard to be where I am. This sort of recognition humbles me. And I hope that it will inspire our future generations to work hard as well

A lot of people don’t see behind the scenes but my days are pretty hectic and most of the time I’m deprived of sleep but I make sure to have time off as well, especially when I’m in Colombo

Sri Lankan music industry resonates with the melodies produced by one of the biggest names in the industry today. Umaria Sinhawansa, has proven that hard work and pure talent are the recipe for her success. Performing in local and international shows, Umaria was able to win the hearts of fans all around the world with her sensational performances. This wonder woman has also evolved into a household name representing in many commercial advertorials too.

Apart from the many awards this spirited lady has bagged, Umaria was the youngest singer to be awarded with the Sarasaviya film awards, which is Sri Lanka’s premier film awards for consequently two years. Recently adding to the list of accolades, she was granted with an A GRADE award from SLBC and once again she is the youngest to have received this recognition in par with legends such as Master Amaradeva, Nanda Malini, Angeline Goonetilleke, Rukmeni Devi and Latha Walpola.

Here’s what Umaria had to say about winning this recognition.

Q CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR LATEST ACHIEVEMENT! HOW DOES IT FEEL WINNING ANOTHER AWARD WITH TERM “YOUNGEST”?

I feel beyond blessed to be honest. I’ve worked very hard to be where I am. This sort of recognition humbles me. And I hope that it will inspire our future generations to work hard as well.

Q HOW DOES AN ARTISTE QUALIFY FOR THIS RECOGNITION?

Usually this requires a lot of examinations. Back in the day an artiste would have to go through various assessments in order for their music to be played on radio. It is a highest regard for a musician in Sri Lanka. This eventually became the honorary award that was handed over to those who exceptionally excel in their respective fields.

To be the youngest to receive this national recognition for the work I’ve put into my craft means the world to me.

Q LET’S TALK ABOUT UMARIA OFF THE RADAR, WHAT’S AN AVERAGE DAY LIKE FOR YOU?

Lots of meetings, lots of planning, house chores, running errands, recordings and finally concerts and appearances. And some days I’m on flight to a different destination.

A lot of people don’t see behind the scenes but my days are pretty hectic and most of the time I’m deprived of sleep but I make sure to have time off as well, especially when I’m in Colombo.

Q HOW DO YOU INTERACT AND RESPOND TO YOUR FANS?

I love interacting with them. I have a career because of them. I don’t take it for granted and I try to respond to as many especially on social media.

Q YOU’VE RELEASED YOUR NEW SINGLE RECENTLY WHAT WAS IT LIKE PUTTING TOGETHER? WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF IT?

Music for “Rangume” was done by my husband Dimitri Fonseka. Lyrics were done by Manuranga Wijesekara. Video was shot by Chamil Pathirana. We recorded the song in Paris and Colombo. Video aspect was more challenging since I had to master several dance routines. I trained in aerial acrobatics and dance for 2 months. We shot the video at Ranminithenna in Hambantota. It was a lot of blood, sweat and tears. Literally. But it was worth it!

Q WE’VE ALWAYS SEEN YOU IN UTMOST CONFIDENCE ON STAGE, BUT TELL ME HAVE YOU EVER DEALT WITH PERFORMANCE ANXIETY?

Definitely. They say the “show must go on”. And indeed it has to.

I’ve performed during the worst of the worst circumstances. I still have anxiety. But I’m learning to work through it, although Sometimes it’s overwhelming, especially when your entire life is the public’s business.

There have been times where I’ve gotten up on stage after severe anxiety attacks and I’ve broken down so hard but finally managed to pull myself together and get on stage.

Q WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE WHO’S EAGER TO FOLLOW YOUR FOOTSTEPS?

Expect constant criticism. Regardless of how right you are, you will always be criticised. Anyone can become a singer, but sustaining in an industry is the hard part. So you HAVE to be the hardest worker in the room. Perfect your craft and just keep working at it.

Q IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH OUR READERS ABOUT YOURSELF, YOUR MUSIC?

I have a few projects lined up in terms of music. I’ve been very focused on spreading the message of being kind to one another. I feel like this world already consists of so much negativity and hatred. And people are so quick to judge, criticise or discriminate. Unfortunately I have to face the above but thankfully I have a wonderful support system that keeps me together. Words can break you. So use them carefully.

Q WHAT’S NEXT IN LINE FOR YOU?

I have an album coming up. Lots more planned, unfortunately I can’t reveal any of it right now. But I’m very excited.