Rookantha Gunathilaka
Mario Glory Rookantha Goonatillake (born 5 September 1959: Sinhala: රූකාන්ත ගුණතිලක) is a Sri Lankan singer, musician, and songwriter, widely regarded as the most influential figure in the country’s music industry. Known for his innovative contributions to Sri Lankan pop music, he rose to prominence in the late 1980s and is often referred to as the "King of Pop" among Sri Lankans.
Rookantha’s career was disrupted in 2000 when he and his wife, Chandralekha Perera, were subjected to politically motivated harassment under the administration of then-President Chandrika Kumaratunga. Following the attack, the family relocated to the United States, where they continued to focus on their music careers. In 2018, Rookantha returned to Sri Lanka and resumed his role as a key figure in the music industry.
He is known for his contributions to Sri Lankan pop and sentimental music, with a repertoire that includes over 200 songs and a lasting impact on the country’s music scene. Rookantha frequently collaborates with his wife and daughters, Raini Charuka and Windy Goonatillake, who have also pursued careers in music.
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