Desmond Kelly DVD launch for charity nets $2500

BY TREVINE RODRIGO IN MELBOURNE

Veteran crooner Desmond Kelly was overjoyed that the proceeds from the sale of his DVD launched last year raised $2500, (Rs. 280,050) and the proceeds was handed over to an orphanage in the land of his birth, Sri Lanka.

The legendary performer signed off his lengthy musical career spanning several decades with a DVD which encompasses the beauty and splendor of Sri Lanka along with some humorous Video clips and a fine selection of his favourite songs delivered in his own inimitable style.

Desmond Kelly has over the years entertained countless fans in Sri Lanka and worldwide not just as a singer but as an actor and in numerous other roles including as a writer which he still plays a starring role for the Website Elanka and Editor of the Lanka Times in Melbourne. His number one hit song in 1958 “Living in a dreamworld” lives on to this day.

The monies raised was sent through DVD sponsors Fastcash, Melbourne’s leading money transfer company to Sri Lanka, to the Kudakusum orphanage, (Little Flower Convent) in Tangalle. The monies collected was received with thanks by Rev. Ashley Samarasinghe, SJ who in turn handed over the funds to Sr. Basiliya Perera, H.A to help educate and care for 21 girls aged between 4 and 12 years old.

Desmond Kelly says that the effort will be particularly pleasing due to the funds being directed to a worthy cause. He was thankful to the producers of the DVD, to Jude Goonewardena in particular, and a host of others who played an instrumental part in making the musical effort a reality.

“I am very happy that he (Michael) handled the financial side of it. It was a “team-effort” involving Mike, Dallas & yourself as well. Also we must not forget Neil Jayasekera of the most popular website ELanka in Australia who has given us plenty of publicity gratis”, says Des after the successful effort.

“Jude Goonewardane in London was respinsible for the production of the DVD, which several people informed me, was absolutely superb. If whatever I have done on this ultimate effort is appreciated, that is reward enough for me. I only wish it could have been ten times the amount we’ve already sent. I hope that those who bought the DVD will watch it now & then to bring back some “Bolanda Katha” (childhood memories) of our Lovely Island Home” he added.