<p>Sri Lankan singer Yohan may be in Mumbai, expanding her professional base and collaborating with Indian musicians, but her heart remains with the people of her country during these trying times.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Sri Lanka is facing one of its most severe economic crises and Yohani, whose real name is Yohani Diloka de Silva, admits she is heartbroken.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“Right now, my country is going through a tough time, and it needs all the help. It doesn’t have to be financial help, any sort of help which can help people is important,” Yohani told The Hindustan Times in an interview.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“It is really important for me to use my voice and fame to help people of my country. That’s why it is really important for me to speak about it. My roots tracing back the country is compelling me to speak up, and lend my voice to it. And I will continue to do so."<br />
<br />
Yohani shot to fame last year when her song Manike Mage Hithe went viral and was adapted into various Indian languages.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“I am very passionate about my country. Even though I am in Mumbai at the moment, my parents are there, my sister is there, my friends are there, and my whole team is there. In fact, the musicians and producers with whom I worked are there," Yohani further said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
“And I know what they are going through. At the moment, Sri Lanka is going through a lot. I know their feelings, and it breaks my heart. And that is why I will continue to do all that I can to help and raise my voice for the betterment of my country," said the singer who aspires to work with AR Rahman in her career.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Last month, the viral singer posted a video appealing to her fans to contribute to a project through which she and other musicians are trying to raise $1 million for Sri Lanka.<br />
<br />
“As an ambassador to my country, with an international platform, I’ve decided to break my silence and lend my voice to my people back home considering the gravity of the situation,” she wrote in her post.<br />
<br />
While speaking to WION, the singer had said she hoped her Indian fans would support the project and help her amplify it.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lankan-singer-and-songwriter-yohani-speaks-to-wion-on-sri-lanka-crisis-469191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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Sri Lankan singer Yohan may be in Mumbai, expanding her professional base and collaborating with Indian musicians, but her heart remains with the people of her country during these trying times.

Sri Lankan singer Yohan may be in Mumbai, expanding her professional base and collaborating with Indian musicians, but her heart remains with the people of her country during these trying times. Sri Lanka is facing one of its most severe economic crises and Yohani, whose real name is Yohani Diloka de Silva, admits she is heartbroken. “Right now, my country is going through a tough time, and it needs all the help. It doesn’t have to be financial help, any sort of help which can help people is important,” Yohani told The Hindustan Times in an interview. “It is really important for me to use my voice and fame to help people of my country. That’s why it is really important for me to speak about it. My roots tracing back the country is compelling me to speak up, and lend my voice to it. And I will continue to do so." Yohani shot to fame last year when her song Manike Mage Hithe went viral and was adapted into various Indian languages. “I am very passionate about my country. Even though I am in Mumbai at the moment, my parents are there, my sister is there, my friends are there, and my whole team is there. In fact, the musicians and producers with whom I worked are there," Yohani further said. “And I know what they are going through. At the moment, Sri Lanka is going through a lot. I know their feelings, and it breaks my heart. And that is why I will continue to do all that I can to help and raise my voice for the betterment of my country," said the singer who aspires to work with AR Rahman in her career. Last month, the viral singer posted a video appealing to her fans to contribute to a project through which she and other musicians are trying to raise $1 million for Sri Lanka. “As an ambassador to my country, with an international platform, I’ve decided to break my silence and lend my voice to my people back home considering the gravity of the situation,” she wrote in her post. While speaking to WION, the singer had said she hoped her Indian fans would support the project and help her amplify it.

Yohani on Sri Lanka's economic crisis: Important to use my voice to help my country

<p>Sri Lankan&nbsp;singer Yohani's viral song 'Manike Mage Hithe' is making headlines, yet again!</p>

<p>This time, an American singer&nbsp;Eric Henry Heinrichs has piqued the interest of social media users for he has added his personal touch to the already popular number.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-wion-exclusive-bhuvan-bam-%E2%80%98dhindora%E2%80%99-could-have-been-on-any-ott-platform-but-thats-unfair-to-my-viewers-424368" hreflang="en">WION exclusive: Bhuvan Bam: ‘Dhindora’ could have been on any OTT platform, but that's unfair to my viewers</a></p>

<p>Eric, who is an American living in Sri Lanka, shot the video in a beautiful location and can be seen singing the song with multiple changes to the source material, which has, clearly, worked well with his listeners.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What the expat has done is blend English lyrics with Sinhalese ones and even added rap into it for making it peppy. "Original song by Satheeshan Rathnayaka and Yohani! Hope y’all enjoy this cover," read the caption of the post.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-dybbuk-review-emraan-hashmi%E2%80%99s-charm-doesn%E2%80%99t-suffice-this-insipid-horror-flick-424992" hreflang="en">'Dybbuk' review: Emraan Hashmi’s charm doesn’t suffice this insipid horror flick</a></p>

<p>The video went viral in pretty much no time.</p>

<p>Yohani, in an exclusive interview with WION, had addressed the global viral trend her song has become, saying, "It’s been a crazy experience. Saying it’s overwhelming would be an understatement. I’m quite humbled by all the love and support. It still feels unreal. My teams have been with me from day one and they take a lot of the pressure off my shoulders. They look into all the collaborations, tours, brand works etc. I get to spend time with the band and prepare for the tour. I enjoy the process and look forward to performing live for as many people as possible."</p>

<p>Read the interview <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-wion-exclusive-manike-mage-hithe-singer-yohani-in-bollywood-i-would-love-to-work-with-ar-rahman-415805">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-wion-exclusive-ub40-we-are-old-frts-now-our-kids-carry-the-flag-for-revolutionary-change-424650" hreflang="en">WION exclusive: UB40: We are old f*rts now, our kids carry the flag for revolutionary change</a></p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gg5o7FqCpNA" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>


Sri Lankan singer Yohani's viral song 'Manike Mage Hithe' is making headlines, yet again! This time, an American singer Eric Henry Heinrichs has piqued the interest of social media users for he has added his personal touch to the already popular number.

Sri Lankan singer Yohani's viral song 'Manike Mage Hithe' is making headlines, yet again! This time, an American singer Eric Henry Heinrichs has piqued the interest of social media users for he has added his personal touch to the already popular number. Also read: WION exclusive: Bhuvan Bam: ‘Dhindora’ could have been on any OTT platform, but that's unfair to my viewers Eric, who is an American living in Sri Lanka, shot the video in a beautiful location and can be seen singing the song with multiple changes to the source material, which has, clearly, worked well with his listeners. What the expat has done is blend English lyrics with Sinhalese ones and even added rap into it for making it peppy. "Original song by Satheeshan Rathnayaka and Yohani! Hope y’all enjoy this cover," read the caption of the post. Also read: 'Dybbuk' review: Emraan Hashmi’s charm doesn’t suffice this insipid horror flick The video went viral in pretty much no time. Yohani, in an exclusive interview with WION, had addressed the global viral trend her song has become, saying, "It’s been a crazy experience. Saying it’s overwhelming would be an understatement. I’m quite humbled by all the love and support. It still feels unreal. My teams have been with me from day one and they take a lot of the pressure off my shoulders. They look into all the collaborations, tours, brand works etc. I get to spend time with the band and prepare for the tour. I enjoy the process and look forward to performing live for as many people as possible." Read the interview here. Also read: WION exclusive: UB40: We are old f*rts now, our kids carry the flag for revolutionary change Watch the video here:

Yohani's 'Manike Mage Hithe' gets American-ised, and social media is frenzied: Watch

<p>'Manike Mage Hithe' by Sinhalese singer Yohani Diloka De Silva is trending the world over for her song's unique tune and that soothing voice. The viral sensation has recently made her Bollywood debut with the title track of Sunny Kaushal-Radhika Madan’s ‘Shiddat’.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
In an exclusive chat with WION, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-wion-exclusive-manike-mage-hithe-singer-yohani-in-bollywood-i-would-love-to-work-with-ar-rahman-415805">Yohani</a> tells us about her dreams and hopes for the future, why she doesn’t think her next song is going to be just as popular, and reveals her favourite Bollywood numbers till date. Read for more...&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION: I want to start by asking you about the song. Tell us a little bit about it. What does it mean? ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ has, of course, taken over social media.</strong></p>

<p><br />
<strong>YOHANI: </strong>So, originally, the song is sung by a boy to a girl. To summarise, Manike is something we call someone we love like ‘baby’, ‘darling’ or ‘babe’. Mage Hithe means in my heart. So, it means: baby in my heart. And this entire song is a love story.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION: Now your expressions, as we see, have stolen the hearts of millions around the world. People, in fact, from different countries are swaying to the lyrics of the song without even understanding them, which, in essence, shows us the power of music to transcend boundaries. How are you handling this fame?</strong></p>

<p><br />
<strong>YOHANI:</strong> I am so humbled by it (love and appreciation) because this is the first time a song has crossed boundaries from Sri Lanka and to this extent. As a country and as a nation, we are really proud of it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION: Did you anticipate the amount of attention this song has received and what was your first reaction when you realised the song has gone viral? Secondly, do you plan on making more such songs to keep the trending aspect going?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-shiddat-review-sunny-kaushal-radhika-madan-are-20-years-too-late-417274">Shiddat review: Sunny Kaushal, Radhika Madan are 20 years too late</a></p>

<p><br />
<strong>YOHANI:</strong> Well, we definitely did not plan for this (song) to go this viral, especially out of Sri Lanka. I mean, I have done so many songs in the past but nothing has ever gone out of Sri Lanka (in terms of reach) and to this extent. We did not plan it and for the next songs that I am doing, I am definitely not looking at the numbers. I just want to (make) music. I just want to produce music that I like and that I enjoy producing. I am not too sure it’s going to go viral like this. But, then, I am happy making songs that I like and that I enjoy making.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION: Did you always have an inclination towards making music because you were also heavily involved in sports. We hear that you are a celebrated swimmer and a water polo player.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><br />
<strong>YOHANI: </strong>Yes <em>(laughs!)</em>, well that’s the first time this question has come up. I am a swimmer and a water polo player and I have been playing for a very long time since I was in school. Along with sports, I did music simultaneously and was in a Western music band. Those two kind of blend together. Yes, music has always been a big part of me.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION: The big question is: what lies next ahead of you, with your song hitting more than a 100 million views.</strong></p>

<p><br />
<strong>YOHANI:</strong> As I said, this wasn’t planned at all. This (song) going viral wasn’t planned. My main objective for this year and the year after was finishing my album. The process (of getting it done) is still on.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION: You also recently recorded your first Bollywood song for ‘Shiddat’. Can you tell us a bit about that?</strong></p>

<p><br />
<strong>YOHANI: </strong>Yes, that was a really tough thing to do because of the language (Hindi). I have sung <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/manike-mage-hithe-singer-yohani-makes-bollywood-debut-as-she-sings-the-title-track-of-shiddat-416590">Hindi songs</a> like twice but those were like smaller sections. But, this was an actual song.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION: I have to ask you this next question on popular demand. Do you like Bollywood music? If yes, what are your favourite songs and who are your favourite artists?</strong></p>

<p><br />
<strong>YOHANI:</strong> I like songs such as ‘Pehla Nasha’ (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar/ 1992), ‘Hosanna’ both Tamil and Hindi versions (Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa in 2010 and Ekk Deewana Tha in 2012, respectively). As Sri Lankans, we are heavily influenced by Bollywood music and we listen to it all the time. We, as a nation, are a fan of Bollywood music. I enjoy different artists and genres of music.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch the full interview here:</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lepOmUH6Sbc" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>


'Manike Mage Hithe' by Sinhalese singer Yohani Diloka De Silva is trending the world over for her song's unique tune and that soothing voice. The viral sensation has recently made her Bollywood debut with the title track of Sunny Kaushal-Radhika Madan’s ‘Shiddat’.

'Manike Mage Hithe' by Sinhalese singer Yohani Diloka De Silva is trending the world over for her song's unique tune and that soothing voice. The viral sensation has recently made her Bollywood debut with the title track of Sunny Kaushal-Radhika Madan’s ‘Shiddat’. In an exclusive chat with WION, Yohani tells us about her dreams and hopes for the future, why she doesn’t think her next song is going to be just as popular, and reveals her favourite Bollywood numbers till date. Read for more... WION: I want to start by asking you about the song. Tell us a little bit about it. What does it mean? ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ has, of course, taken over social media. YOHANI: So, originally, the song is sung by a boy to a girl. To summarise, Manike is something we call someone we love like ‘baby’, ‘darling’ or ‘babe’. Mage Hithe means in my heart. So, it means: baby in my heart. And this entire song is a love story. WION: Now your expressions, as we see, have stolen the hearts of millions around the world. People, in fact, from different countries are swaying to the lyrics of the song without even understanding them, which, in essence, shows us the power of music to transcend boundaries. How are you handling this fame? YOHANI: I am so humbled by it (love and appreciation) because this is the first time a song has crossed boundaries from Sri Lanka and to this extent. As a country and as a nation, we are really proud of it. WION: Did you anticipate the amount of attention this song has received and what was your first reaction when you realised the song has gone viral? Secondly, do you plan on making more such songs to keep the trending aspect going? Also read: Shiddat review: Sunny Kaushal, Radhika Madan are 20 years too late YOHANI: Well, we definitely did not plan for this (song) to go this viral, especially out of Sri Lanka. I mean, I have done so many songs in the past but nothing has ever gone out of Sri Lanka (in terms of reach) and to this extent. We did not plan it and for the next songs that I am doing, I am definitely not looking at the numbers. I just want to (make) music. I just want to produce music that I like and that I enjoy producing. I am not too sure it’s going to go viral like this. But, then, I am happy making songs that I like and that I enjoy making. WION: Did you always have an inclination towards making music because you were also heavily involved in sports. We hear that you are a celebrated swimmer and a water polo player. YOHANI: Yes (laughs!), well that’s the first time this question has come up. I am a swimmer and a water polo player and I have been playing for a very long time since I was in school. Along with sports, I did music simultaneously and was in a Western music band. Those two kind of blend together. Yes, music has always been a big part of me. WION: The big question is: what lies next ahead of you, with your song hitting more than a 100 million views. YOHANI: As I said, this wasn’t planned at all. This (song) going viral wasn’t planned. My main objective for this year and the year after was finishing my album. The process (of getting it done) is still on. WION: You also recently recorded your first Bollywood song for ‘Shiddat’. Can you tell us a bit about that? YOHANI: Yes, that was a really tough thing to do because of the language (Hindi). I have sung Hindi songs like twice but those were like smaller sections. But, this was an actual song. WION: I have to ask you this next question on popular demand. Do you like Bollywood music? If yes, what are your favourite songs and who are your favourite artists? YOHANI: I like songs such as ‘Pehla Nasha’ (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar/ 1992), ‘Hosanna’ both Tamil and Hindi versions (Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa in 2010 and Ekk Deewana Tha in 2012, respectively). As Sri Lankans, we are heavily influenced by Bollywood music and we listen to it all the time. We, as a nation, are a fan of Bollywood music. I enjoy different artists and genres of music. Watch the full interview here:

WION exclusive: Manike Mage Hithe singer Yohani- Sri Lanka, as a nation, loves Bollywood music

<p>If you have a phone or a television set or both, then your day sure doesn't start until&nbsp;you listen to Yohani Diloka De Silva's--who only goes by Yohani, socially--'Manike Mage Hithe'. The song, in Sinhala language, has been trending globally and even Bollywood superstars Amitabh Bachchan, Tiger Shroff, Madhuri Dixit Nene and Priyanka Chopra Jonas have been humming the soothing tune.</p>

<p>Now, in an exclusive chat with WION, Yohani, who is prepping for her India tour, says that the numbers her single's amassed in the past few months has left her more than just overwhelmed. "It feels unreal," she shares.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Yohani would like to work with A.R.Rahman, Sonu Nigam, among others, in Bollywood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a62dcd87-845f-446c-b7e9-991ee5123bbc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-09-25T141448.282_0.jpg" /></p>

<p>Excerpts from our conversation with her:</p>

<p><strong>WION: Your number ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ is practically everywhere, and there are very few artists who have enjoyed this kind of fan following amongst Bollywood stars. The pressure of outdoing yourself could very well leave you feeling overwhelmed. Your thoughts and coping mechanisms?</strong></p>

<p><strong>YOHANI:</strong> It’s been a crazy experience. Saying it’s overwhelming would be an understatement. I’m quite humbled by all the love and support. It still feels unreal. My teams--Pettah Effect and Theewra Worldwide--have been with me from day one and they take a lot of the pressure off my shoulders. They look into all the collaborations, tours, brand works etc. I get to spend time with the band and prepare for the tour. I enjoy the process and look forward to performing live for as many people as possible.</p>

<p><strong>WION: You are probably one of the first international artists to come to India since the pandemic. What was the reaction of your family when you told them about your tour?</strong></p>

<p><strong>YOHANI: </strong>My parents are very supportive. They are confident that my team is taking care of all necessary security and safety measures. My parents are not from a music background to help me with music, but they want to get involved in pitching wardrobe ideas, song ideas, etc. I’m still their kid daughter and I love how they still spoil me. &nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>WION: The song is filled with love and passion. What’s your take on relationships in this age of hook-ups and speed dating?</strong></p>

<p><strong>YOHANI:</strong> This is a very difficult question and this is only my opinion: I believe love is not something that you find, instead it’s something you work on. It’s like writing a song. There are collaborations, different instruments, a language, different voices etc. and everyone has to work on it. Relationships are a result of this working bond.&nbsp;</p>

<p>I don’t see anything wrong with speed dating or hook-ups. It’s all human experiences and if the individuals who are doing this are content, it’s up to them. We shouldn’t have a box for everyone to fit in.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>WION:</strong> <strong>So many versions of your cover have come out and in so many languages. Who is that one musician you would want to hear sing your song? And, why?</strong></p>

<p>There are so many. Don’t want to pick a name.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: First the viral song, then the India tour… It is safe to say that a Bollywood (singing) offer is just round the corner. Who is your dream Bollywood composer, and why?</strong></p>

<p><br />
<strong>YOHANI:</strong> I would love to work with A.R Rahman, Sonu Nigam, Arijit Singh, DIVINE, Badshah and the list goes on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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If you have a phone or a television set or both, then your day sure doesn't start until you listen to Yohani Diloka De Silva's--who only goes by Yohani, socially--'Manike Mage Hithe'.

If you have a phone or a television set or both, then your day sure doesn't start until you listen to Yohani Diloka De Silva's--who only goes by Yohani, socially--'Manike Mage Hithe'. The song, in Sinhala language, has been trending globally and even Bollywood superstars Amitabh Bachchan, Tiger Shroff, Madhuri Dixit Nene and Priyanka Chopra Jonas have been humming the soothing tune. Now, in an exclusive chat with WION, Yohani, who is prepping for her India tour, says that the numbers her single's amassed in the past few months has left her more than just overwhelmed. "It feels unreal," she shares. Excerpts from our conversation with her: WION: Your number ‘Manike Mage Hithe’ is practically everywhere, and there are very few artists who have enjoyed this kind of fan following amongst Bollywood stars. The pressure of outdoing yourself could very well leave you feeling overwhelmed. Your thoughts and coping mechanisms? YOHANI: It’s been a crazy experience. Saying it’s overwhelming would be an understatement. I’m quite humbled by all the love and support. It still feels unreal. My teams--Pettah Effect and Theewra Worldwide--have been with me from day one and they take a lot of the pressure off my shoulders. They look into all the collaborations, tours, brand works etc. I get to spend time with the band and prepare for the tour. I enjoy the process and look forward to performing live for as many people as possible. WION: You are probably one of the first international artists to come to India since the pandemic. What was the reaction of your family when you told them about your tour? YOHANI: My parents are very supportive. They are confident that my team is taking care of all necessary security and safety measures. My parents are not from a music background to help me with music, but they want to get involved in pitching wardrobe ideas, song ideas, etc. I’m still their kid daughter and I love how they still spoil me. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yohani (@yohanimusic) × WION: The song is filled with love and passion. What’s your take on relationships in this age of hook-ups and speed dating? YOHANI: This is a very difficult question and this is only my opinion: I believe love is not something that you find, instead it’s something you work on. It’s like writing a song. There are collaborations, different instruments, a language, different voices etc. and everyone has to work on it. Relationships are a result of this working bond. I don’t see anything wrong with speed dating or hook-ups. It’s all human experiences and if the individuals who are doing this are content, it’s up to them. We shouldn’t have a box for everyone to fit in. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yohani (@yohanimusic) × WION: So many versions of your cover have come out and in so many languages. Who is that one musician you would want to hear sing your song? And, why? There are so many. Don’t want to pick a name. WION: First the viral song, then the India tour… It is safe to say that a Bollywood (singing) offer is just round the corner. Who is your dream Bollywood composer, and why? YOHANI: I would love to work with A.R Rahman, Sonu Nigam, Arijit Singh, DIVINE, Badshah and the list goes on.

WION exclusive: 'Manike Mage Hithe' singer Yohani: In Bollywood, I would love to work with A.R. Rahman