Tooting to the tune of “Kaputu Kaak Kaak Kaak, Basil Basil Basil Basil”

During the past few weeks, the slogan “Kaputu Kaak Kaak Kaak, Basil Basil Basil Basil” has been used widely to mock former Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa. Drivers who pass by the protests toot their vehicle horms to show their solidarity with the protesters. The slogan stems from an interview Mr. Rajapaksa gave online about the kaputas (crows) from a marshy land near the Katunayake international airport hindering aircraft landings and take off.The horn was to imitate the sound of the bird crowing.

The slogan though, has now taken a life of its own outside filling stations.

Drivers who pass by long lines of vehicles at filling stations are now tooting their horns to the rhythm of the slogan as they pass. This is done in order to show their solidarity and support for motorists who are waiting in line for hours until they can get fuel. It also serves as a mark of protest against the Government’s colossal inefficiency and a voicing of frustration that it has been unable to resolve the prevailing fuel crisis.

Actor turned vocalist late Freddie Silva was also remembered as the emotive words about the black bird found in plenty in Sri Lanka; “Kaputu Kaak” and its accompanying music has been picked from his original song.