Henry Caldera

Henry Caldera

Henry Caldera (August 191937–October 11, 2006 (aged 69)) was a Sri Lankan Singer/Songwriter/Musician.

Caldera was born on August 191937. 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.

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 Bhushan 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.

Here are some of the songs which placed top place in Sri Lankan music.

1. Thara Patiya - (Song for Chindren) 2. Penuna Suwa Dasun - (Song about love and being not told by his partner that 'I LOVE YOU') 3. Midule Sudu Weli Thalaye 4. Eeye Udaye 5. Lanka Mage Lanka 6. Mokada Nago (Duet) 7. Pemin Bandennai 8. Oba Pewa Hasarella 9. Sisila Sendaewe 10. Kana Widina Wele 11. Mal Natu Weni 12. Andannepa Amme 13. Samanala Siripa 14. Melowa Thibena 15. Suhadiniye 16. Kanda Udin (Duet) 17. Mage somi sanda 18. Deva Meniyane 19. Nahawa rasa kiri powa 20. Hinaweyan sudu saman male 21. Gayakayanani 22. Mawage malagama 23. Malli (Duet) 24. Sanahase sihil nille (Duet) 25. Budu Piye


Caldera firmly believed that art is art and nothing could buy an artist and held on to that till he breathed his last breath.

Caldera had four children with his wife who was also blind. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2004 and died on 11 October 2006.