Indrani Perera
Studied at Presbyterian Girl’s School and later at Stafford Ladies College in the biology stream, Indrani’s dream in life was to become a doctor and treat the sick. Though this dream did not come true, she was able realize her other two dreams: to become a very good driver at a very young age and to go on a vacation to England.
During her childhood, Indrani used to sing as loud as she can so that neighbors who regularly praised her singing could hear, which gave her the thrills says Indrani during an interview with Sunday Leader in 2005.
Indrani’s first public encounter was a recording for school at the Radio Ceylon. Her talent was spotted by the school’s music teacher Mrs. Potgar and encouraged by the principal Mrs. Valerie. Having studied dancing at the feet of Vajira and Chitrasena, she was popular in school as a Kandyan dancer.
Debut
Indrani was selected by Dalreen as a backing singer in her band “Fire-Flies”.
However, her breakthrough was in 1969 when Marie, a good friend of Indani and cousin sister of Annesley introduced Indrani to Annesley of “The Moonstones”. During the time Moonstones were searching for a female vocalist for the song “Dilhani”.
On Annesley’s request Indrani rehearsed with The Moonstones at Gerald Wickremesooriya’s residence and was selected to perform with The Moonstones.
She met Clarence Wijewardena for the first time on this day.
The song became an instant hit and the album “Dilhani” grossed the highest revenue record at the time.
The song “Dilhani” remains evergreen with requests of repeat performances at shows by her fans around the globe.
http://www.sooriya.lk/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/8-Dilhani.mp3
Journey
Her second recording with The Moonstones titled “Sigiriya” produced by Sooriya on the Decca label was again a success.
After a short stint with “The Moonstones” Indrani formed the group “Three Sisters” with her sisters Mallika and Irangani in 1969.
In 1973, Indrani recorded with The Super Golden Chimes. The song “Amma” written by Clarence dedicated to Indrani’s mother and the song “Ha Ha Hore” were released on the Lotus label with The Super Golden Chimes.
Indrani has also performed as a playback singer: “Gini Siluwaki” for the film ‘Podi Malli’ recorded by Sooriya in 1977, “Irata Akeekaru” for the film ‘Dinum Kanuwa’, “Kodi Gaha Yata” with Anjaleen Gunathilake for the film ‘Lassana Kella’, “Pem Rasa Wahena” with Victor Ratnayake for the film ‘Sadahatama Oba Mage’, “Wasanthaye Mal Kekulai” for the film ‘Sikuruliya’ to name a few.
During the late 70’s Indrani recorded Baila songs on Sooriya, together with Desmond and Paul.
Indrani married James in 1979, having met him through Vijaya Corea while a recording on Lotus label.
Since Mallika’s untimely death in 1987, Indrani continued her journey on a solo career.
Iranganie appeared on stage with her sister Indrani from time to time. Mallika’s daughter Hiranya joined the duo on stage on 02nd December 2000, bringing back the ever live hits of “The Three Sisters”.
Being a part of ‘The Original Pop Trio’ Indrani tours around the country as well as internationally with Annesley Malawana with the 70’s shows.
