Fame Game Featuring Annesley Malewana

Sri Lankan music legend Annesley Malewana recently joined hosts Kumar de Silva and Rozanne Diasz on The Fame Game for an engaging and nostalgic conversation that revisited the golden era of local pop music, the inspiration behind the biographical film centred on Clarence Wijewardena, and their shared musical journey.

The discussion offered audiences a rare opportunity to hear directly from the real Annesley as the hosts explored personal anecdotes, myths created through cinematic storytelling, and the evolution of Sri Lanka’s music scene over several decades.

Q: When people hear your name now, many immediately think of the film and the portrayals of Clarence and Annesley. How does it feel to you?

 The film has brought renewed attention and people are naturally curious about how much of it is real and how much is creative interpretation.

Q: The film suggests a romantic connection between you and Indrani. Was there any truth to that?

 No, there was absolutely nothing romantic between us. The film implies certain emotional tensions for storytelling purposes, but in reality we were simply family friends.

Indrani was still schooling when I first discovered her talent. She used to visit my uncle’s house in Nawala where my cousin Mari and she were best friends. I heard her singing English songs and her voice was extraordinary. That was when I introduced her to Clarence and suggested that he consider her as a singer.

Interestingly, people even called my wife after watching the film to ask whether I had an affair with Indrani. Fortunately she knows the truth and shares a close friendship with Indrani herself.

Q: How satisfied are you with how the film portrays your life and musical journey?

 I think it was very well done. Naturally some viewers will find faults or feel that certain aspects could have been shown differently, but overall it beautifully revived old memories and highlighted the melodies and artistic relationships that defined that era.

Films require creative liberties and audiences must understand that. It captures the spirit rather than every detail.

Q: The character Mango has become memorable among viewers. Was she based on a real person?

 Yes, there was a real person known as Mango. She was a neighbour near Clarence’s house and had a reputation for being quite outspoken.

There is a story connected to the famous song Mango Nanda. While practising at Clarence’s house he asked me to sing a song he had composed. He made me repeat it several times, saying something was wrong. Later I realised he was intentionally distracting me because Mango was loudly complaining about us nearby. That experience inspired the situation behind the song.

Q: The film does not focus heavily on the hardships you faced early in your career. How difficult was life during the early years of Moonstones?

It was extremely challenging. The film does not show the full extent of those struggles because the director wanted a modern cinematic feel rather than highlighting poverty or hardship.

In reality we had no proper transport or modern conveniences. We travelled by bus from Ratnapura to Colombo for performances. After shows we would catch the Kelani Valley train around 1.30 in the morning to return home. There were no air conditioned vehicles and no hotels, only guest houses.

Yet despite the hardships those times were filled with joy and camaraderie.

Q: Do you remember your first payment as a band?

Yes. Our very first booking was for a lawyers’ gathering in Ratnapura. When asked about our fee I suggested 50 rupees for the entire band. At the time that felt like a huge amount.

Years later the same lawyer invited us again and joked about the original fee. It is amusing to look back at how far things have come.

Q: Did you ever imagine that the songs you and Clarence performed would become timeless classics across generations?

 No, we never thought about fame or legacy. We simply sang for joy. The idea that these songs would endure for decades was never in our minds.

Q: With many fans, especially female admirers, what were some memorable fan experiences?

In those days fans would request autographs in books rather than on digital platforms. There were many enthusiastic admirers, but it was all part of the fun.

Interestingly our drummer often attracted the longest queues for autographs. Clarence and I used to joke about it. We were singing while others received the attention.

Q: Why did Clarence leave the Moonstones and how did that affect you?

 There was no conflict. Clarence wanted to focus more on composing music for films and explore new creative directions. He joined another group which eventually evolved into Golden Chimes.

Later circumstances brought us back together and we formed Super Golden Chimes. It became extremely popular and we performed everything from English songs to stage shows, weddings and dinner dances. Those were busy and rewarding times.

Q: There was reportedly resistance to pop music being played on national radio during that era. What happened?

Yes, there were traditionalists who believed pop music was inferior. Because of this our songs were initially restricted from certain broadcasts.

However broadcaster Vijay Corea supported us strongly. He began playing our songs on the English service which helped introduce our music to wider audiences. His support played a significant role in our growth.

Q: How did you first enter the professional music scene?

Clarence introduced me to Sri Sangabo Corea who was searching for a lead singer. After hearing me sing he approved immediately and that opened the door to my career. I owe a great deal to both Clarence and Mr Corea for that opportunity.

Q: If asked to sing one song today without preparation, which would you choose?

 Mango Nanda would likely come to mind first. Even children today know the lyrics. It is simple, memorable and still resonates across generations.

Q: Some characters in the film, such as Ramya, sparked curiosity. Were they based on real people?

 Yes, Ramya was inspired by a real situation involving a friend who admired a girl deeply. He requested Clarence to compose a song for her, though it remained a one sided affection.

Q: When did you first feel like a star?

 Honestly I never considered myself a star. I am still simply Annesley Malewana. Fame was never something I took seriously.

Q: Are there plans for new recordings or film songs?

 I feel I have done enough in that regard. Today I prefer performing occasionally as a solo artist and organising special events or reunions celebrating the music of the 1970s.

Q: How does your wife handle your public recognition and fan following?

She is used to it and very supportive. She is proud and understands the nature of the profession.

Q: Do you think the film has revived your legacy among younger audiences?

 Yes definitely. Many people now request performances specifically connected to the film. It has introduced our music to a new generation which is very encouraging.

The conversation on The Fame Game revealed not only the memories behind iconic songs but also the humility and sincerity that define Annesley Malewana’s character. While cinematic storytelling may reshape certain narratives for dramatic effect, his reflections emphasise friendship, artistic passion and perseverance through challenges.

From travelling by bus and train to perform for modest fees to becoming part of Sri Lanka’s musical heritage, Annesley’s journey illustrates how authenticity and dedication can create lasting cultural impact. As new audiences rediscover these timeless melodies through film and live performances, his legacy continues to evolve, bridging generations through music that remains as vibrant today as it was decades ago.