National Anthem distortion at LPL opening stirs controversy Legal action contemplated

• Prominent singer Umara Sinhawansa mispronounces word during rendition of National Anthem  
• Minister expresses concerns over  potential implications of such deviations from the traditional rendition of the National Anthem  

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama   
The 2023 Lanka Premier League (LPL) opening ceremony took an unexpected turn when a video surfaced on social media, capturing a prominent singer, Umara Sinhawansa, mispronouncing a word during the rendition of the National Anthem. The incident has triggered widespread outcry and discussions among people, leading to a trending hashtag “Mahatha” on various social media platforms.   
In response to the escalating brouhaha, Buddha Sasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs Minister, Vidura Wickramanayaka, issued a stern warning of potential legal consequences for such actions. Emphasizing the significance of the National Anthem as a symbol of a nation’s identity and culture, the Minister firmly stated that distorting the anthem could not be condoned.   
“No nation’s National Anthem should be subject to distortion or alteration, as it represents the very essence of our collective heritage. The Ministry takes this matter seriously and is actively considering appropriate measures to address the incident. We will also engage with relevant parties to convey the gravity of such actions,” Minister Wickramanayaka affirmed.   

As the video of Umara Sinhawansa’s performance went viral, criticisms mounted over the mispronunciation of the phrase “Namo Namo Matha,” which was repeatedly sung as “Namo Namo Mahatha.” People voiced their discontent, with the hashtag “Mahatha” becoming a focal point for the online discourse.   
The Minister expressed concerns over the potential implications of such deviations from the traditional rendition of the National Anthem. He stressed that preserving the sanctity of the anthem was of utmost importance and should not be subjected to experimentation, remixing, or contemporary adaptations. 

 
“There exists a standard method of singing the National Anthem, and the approved version is readily available on platforms like YouTube. We must exercise caution to safeguard our cherished traditions and values. Failing to address such distortions may inadvertently pave the way for more radical departures in the future, which is a prospect the Ministry cannot overlook,” Minister Wickramanayaka cautioned.   While issuing a statement, the Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government Ministry said that changing the National Anthem according to one’s will is illegal and not acceptable.   
Therefore, Ministry Secretary K.D.N. Ranjith Asoka was advised to launch an immediate inquiry regarding the incident.   
The secretary emphasizes that it is regrettable to change the National Anthem in a programme that draws international attention.