Hailing from an artistic family, Nimantha Heshan has brought the heart-soothing flavours of Indian music to Sri Lankan audiences by delving into the field of music.
Better known as Humaans, his music band stands out for its superb performances. Upon completing his studies at Ananda College, Colombo, Heshan is determined to find his own rhythm amid a symphony of golden rhythms and melodies.
Heshan has immersed himself in performing arts since his childhood. Being celebrated stage drama directors, his parents Hector Kumarasinghe and Sriyani Kumarasinghe have passed on their creativity to their son. Going down memory lane, he recalled past memories.
“My parents are more into stage dramas. Hence, I got opportunities to watch those stage plays. As the time passed, I was more exposed to the SLBC and performed at several programs such as Lama Pitiya, Handa Mama and so on.”
With the blessing of veteran musician Nanda Malani, he studied not only music but also the spirituality of a musical soul. Heshan’s insight into music is a testament to his decades-long efforts and sacrifices. After his Advanced Level studies, Heshan flew to India to explore music to seek new knowledge and acquire more skills.
In India he found not only the new dimensions of Indian music but also his sweetheart. Bringing the essence of Indian musical flavours, the couple returned to Sri Lanka to embark on a new journey. At present, both are lecturing at the University of Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo.
While awakening his by-gone memories, he never forgot to pay gratitude to senior Prof. Jayasena Kottegoda for giving him the opportunity. There are giant pillars in his life. One of such pillars was none veteran artist Jackson Anthony. Thanks to Jackson, Heshan got another opportunity to perform at the Visekara Lankaraya program.
This program opened many avenues to reality shows. Delving into Heshan’s life story, it was clear that he wanted to widen the horizon of students through his own academy. This is how Aavaaz The Academy of Music emerged.
Golden melodies
With seven musical instruments and three singers, Humaans weaves a tapestry of golden melodies, taking a wide range of audiences on a musical journey to India. Humaans remains unique for Indian music. “We always speak about humans and human feelings such as love, lust, ego, separation and frustration through our band,” he said.
The Humaans team: Leader – Heshan Gamage, Rhythm – Madawa Bandara, Bass – Rashmitha Thalakotunna, Lead – Jude Jeniter, Drums – Sandun Mihisara, Keyboard – Lankeshwara Dharamasena, Flute – Prasad Aruna, Percussion – Dileepa Dhananjaya, Vocals – Nelka Thilini/ Dhanushka Chandimal, Manager – Newuni Dayanga / Thushara Kuruwitage.
Heshan with the team08
