Yohani to Take Sinhala Music to India’s Ziro Festival of Music

Sri Lankan singer Yohani is set to perform at the 13th edition of the Ziro Festival of Music in Arunachal Pradesh, India, joining a diverse line-up of 41 acts representing more than 10 countries.

Yohani will perform her original music, predominantly in Sinhala, for an international audience at one of India’s established independent music festivals.

The appearance marks another milestone in the singer’s international career, following her breakthrough in India with the viral success of “Manike Mage Hithe” in 2021.

According to Dilanjan Seneviratne, Founder and CEO of Colombo-based entertainment company Outright Play, which has managed Yohani’s career since its early stages, the team focused on building a sustainable international career rather than relying solely on the momentum of a viral hit.

Speaking about the festival, Seneviratne said Ziro has grown into a respected platform for independent music since its launch in 2012, attracting artists from across the world.

He also highlighted the decision to retain Yohani’s musical and linguistic identity, with her set featuring original Sinhala songs rather than adapting her repertoire specifically for international audiences.

Seneviratne said building an international music career also requires infrastructure beyond performances, including management, publishing, production and ownership of intellectual property. Outright Play has developed an integrated operation in Sri Lanka covering these areas.

The company is also expanding its artist roster, with emerging performers such as 18-year-old SANA being developed as part of its long-term strategy to create greater opportunities for Sri Lankan musicians.

Yohani’s upcoming appearance at Ziro represents another step in taking original Sri Lankan music to international audiences while maintaining its local identity.