06th November 2024 – Colombo, Sri Lanka – The Event Management Association of Sri Lanka (EMA), successfully hosted the highly anticipated BNS Hadagesma Special Edition Unplugged Musical Concert at the Musaeus College Auditorium on October 13th, 2024. This milestone event, featuring the renowned musical duo Bathiya and Santhush (BNS), achieved a remarkable sell-out, proving the concert’s status as one of the year’s most memorable live performances.
EMA’s foray into high-impact entertainment events began with ‘Dream Music Fest,’ launched at a time when Sri Lanka’s event industry was reeling from challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, by presenting this exclusive BNS ‘Hadagesma’ concert, EMA has sparked excitement among a new wave of concertgoers, reaffirming its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences that celebrate Sri Lanka’s rich musical heritage.
“The EMA’s vision has always been to elevate the standard of Sri Lankan event management to match world class standards” said Nisal Caldera, President of the EMA. “The Hadagesma Special Edition Unplugged Concert exemplifies this mission by not only providing a platform for iconic talents like BNS but also by creating unique, world-class experiences that resonate deeply with audiences and celebrate the spirit of Sri Lankan artistry.”
‘Hadagesma’ took the audience on an acoustic journey through BNS’s legendary music catalog, from their iconic hit “Wasanthaye” to the emotional and melodic “Oba Nisa,” offering a fresh, unplugged interpretation of their popular tracks. What made this concert especially compelling was its unplugged format, which provided a rare opportunity to experience BNS’s music in its purest form. By stripping down the songs to their acoustic essence, the duo created a profound emotional connection with the audience, allowing them to appreciate the depth and artistry behind the music. This intimate and authentic experience made the Hadagesma Special Edition distinct from typical large-scale, fully orchestrated concerts in the Sri Lankan music scene.
The sell-out event was a testament to the strong demand and anticipation surrounding the concert. All tickets were sold in advance, with overwhelming positive reactions from the audience, confirming the concert’s success. Extensive media coverage and post-event feedback further solidified this achievement, demonstrating the widespread appreciation for this unique unplugged experience.
As one of Sri Lanka’s most successful musical acts, Bathiya and Santhush are celebrated for their innovative fusion of traditional Sri Lankan music with modern genres, creating a culturally grounded yet forward-thinking sound that resonates across age groups and backgrounds. A valued member of EMA, BNS shares a close association with the organization, and their Hadagesma Special Edition concert highlighted this dynamic partnership.
The Event Management Association of Sri Lanka (EMA), established as the only registered professional body in Sri Lanka’s event industry, takes great pride in the successful orchestration of this event. Known for its proficiency in managing high-profile events that blend cultural, social, and entertainment elements, EMA’s involvement added credibility and prestige to the concert. The association’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in event management has played a pivotal role in elevating the standard of events in Sri Lanka.