Sri Lanka’s dancing queen touched by surprise b’day tribute
What greater gift can a grandmother, mother and teacher get on her 80th birthday than celebrating the day surrounded by family, friends and students? Dancing legend Vajira Chitrasena was taken by surprise yesterday by the tribute paid to her for her 80th birthday which falls on March 15, 2012, as almost 100 students and well-wishers gathered at the Chitrasena Kalayathanaya in Colombo 5 to greet her with flowers and garlands.
Daughter Upeka Chitrasena said that they planned to celebrate her mother’s 80th birthday on Saturday because it was a day they had classes in the academy. “Her birthday is on March 15, but we decided to give her an early surprise of the big day,” she said adding that the main reason to organise the event was to express their gratitude to this peerless dancer who has taught for many years and is still doing her duty to the young dancers.
Vajira who began her career under Chitrasena’s tutelage in 1946 danced in her first ballet at an early age for the song ‘Kumuduni’ by Ananda Samarakoon.
It was indeed an emotional moment when Vajira bent down to worship the photograph of Chitrasena which hung on the wall. “This is my teacher,” she said taking her shawl to wipe away the tears.
She shared with the Sunday Times that she was grateful to be a part of the event which was held in her honour. “I believe that if one has a strong physique one can do well and I have done quite a lot for my age,” she said smiling.
“I am sort of taking a back