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In-Depth Analysis: The Life and Tragic Death of Surendra Wasantha Perera, aka ‘ Club Wasantha ‘

July 9, 2024
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Colombo, July 8 – On a fateful day, the vibrant and influential life of Surendra Wasantha Perera, popularly known as ‘Club Wasantha,’ came to a tragic end. The shocking incident occurred during the opening of a tattoo studio at Oruwala Junction in Athurugiriya. This in-depth analysis delves into the life, career, and untimely demise of a man who was a prominent figure in Sri Lanka’s nightlife and business sectors.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Surendra Wasantha Perera embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the hospitality industry with a hotel called ‘Sunhill‘ in Nuwara Eliya. His charisma and business acumen soon led him to establish multiple hotels and karaoke clubs across Sri Lanka, especially in Colombo. By the 1990s, ‘Club Wasantha’ had become synonymous with the burgeoning nightlife scene, setting trends and creating legal entertainment venues outside the traditional confines of five-star hotels.

The Rise of ‘Club Wasantha’

Wasantha’s reputation as a nightlife mogul grew as he successfully managed and expanded his business empire. He was instrumental in legalizing nightclub operations, working closely with authorities to ensure proper permits and regulations. This approach not only legitimized the industry but also created a safer and more structured environment for nightlife enthusiasts.

In an interview with Danu Innasithamby on the Lankadeepa YouTube channel in 2022, Wasantha shared his experiences and challenges in the industry. He spoke candidly about managing clubs, dealing with political figures, and his philosophy of running businesses with integrity and legality. His efforts earned him the respect of many, including a significant number of parliamentarians who considered him a friend.

Personal Life and Relationships

Wasantha’s personal life was equally intriguing. He maintained close ties with influential figures, including the Rajapaksa family, but he always emphasized that these relationships were built on personal respect rather than political motives. He was known for his generosity and willingness to help others, a trait that endeared him to many.

Despite his success, Wasantha faced numerous challenges, including navigating the complexities of running clubs in a politically charged environment. He eventually stepped away from active management of his clubs, partly due to personal reasons and partly because of the changing landscape of the tourism industry in Sri Lanka.

 

The Tragic Incident

The tranquility of the tattoo studio opening was shattered by a violent attack that left two dead, including Wasantha, and several others injured, including singer K. Sujeewa. The police reported that the suspects arrived in a white car, armed with T56 assault rifles, and opened fire on the attendees. The chaos that ensued resulted in Wasantha and a 38-year-old male succumbing to their injuries shortly after being admitted to the hospital.

 

The attack also injured Wasantha’s wife and three other females, all of whom were rushed to local hospitals. K. Sujeewa, who sustained gunshot wounds to her legs, was later transferred to the Colombo National Hospital for advanced treatment.

Investigation and Public Reaction

Rumors quickly spread that the assassination was linked to a 70 crore money deal involving the former underworld leader Makandure Madush. It was alleged that Kanjipani Imran, who is reportedly receiving political asylum in France, orchestrated the attack due to a failed money transaction with Wasantha. The police, investigating these claims, noted that the money deal occurred while Madush was in Dubai. Following Madush’s deportation to Sri Lanka and subsequent death in a police clash, it is suspected that Kanjipani may have used his followers to execute this deadly plan. As the investigation continues, the authorities are piecing together the motives and connections behind this tragic incident.

The police swiftly initiated an investigation, utilizing CCTV footage that captured the suspects’ arrival and the shooting. The car used in the attack was found abandoned in the Koratota area in Kaduwela, providing a crucial lead for the authorities. The investigation is ongoing, with the police working tirelessly to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

The public reaction to Wasantha’s death was one of shock and mourning. His significant social media presence, with nearly 600,000 followers on Facebook, amplified the outpouring of grief and condolences from fans and followers. Many shared memories of his contributions to the nightlife industry and his impact on their lives.

Legacy and Impact

Surendra Wasantha Perera’s legacy extends beyond his business ventures. He was a pioneer who transformed the nightlife scene in Sri Lanka, creating legal and safe spaces for entertainment. His commitment to integrity and legality set a benchmark for others in the industry. Despite his untimely demise, his influence remains, and his story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Wasantha’s life was a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of maintaining personal integrity in business. His tragic death underscores the need for continued efforts to ensure public safety and prevent such violent incidents in the future.

Conclusion

The life and career of Surendra Wasantha Perera, aka ‘Club Wasantha,’ were marked by significant achievements and contributions to Sri Lanka’s nightlife and business sectors. His tragic death leaves a void that will be felt by many. As the community mourns his loss, there is a collective call for justice and a renewed commitment to creating a safer and more secure environment for all.

Updated later: –

Intrigued by the mystery? The death of ‘Club Wasantha,’ a.k.a. Rajapakse Don Surendu Wasantha Perera, has sparked widespread curiosity. Allegedly, a 70 crore deal with former underworld kingpin Makandure Madush led to his demise. After Madush was captured in Dubai and sent back to Sri Lanka, Vedika perished in a police clash amidst the transaction. Now, suspicions rise as the police investigate whether Kanjipani Imran, who’s seeking asylum in France, orchestrated this murder over an unpaid debt.

 FAQs

Q1: Who was Surendra Wasantha Perera, also known as ‘Club Wasantha’? A: Surendra Wasantha Perera, popularly known as ‘Club Wasantha,’ was a prominent businessman and nightlife mogul in Sri Lanka. He was known for establishing and managing several hotels and karaoke clubs, and for his contributions to legalizing and regulating the nightlife industry.

Q2: What happened to ‘Club Wasantha’? A: ‘Club Wasantha’ was shot dead on July 7, 2024, during the opening of a tattoo studio at Oruwala Junction in Athurugiriya. The attack also resulted in the death of another individual and left several others injured, including singer K. Sujeewa.

Q3: Who was injured in the shooting? A: The shooting injured several individuals, including singer K. Sujeewa, who sustained gunshot wounds to her legs, and ‘Club Wasantha’s’ wife. The injured were admitted to various hospitals for treatment.

Q4: What is the status of the police investigation? A: The police investigation is ongoing. Authorities have recovered the car used in the attack and are analyzing CCTV footage to identify the suspects. The investigation aims to uncover the motives and apprehend those responsible for the shooting.

Q5: What are the rumors surrounding ‘Club Wasantha’s’ death? A: There are rumors that ‘Club Wasantha’ was killed due to a failed 70 crore money deal allegedly involving the former underworld leader Makandure Madush. It is suspected that Kanjipani Imran, who is reportedly in political asylum in France, orchestrated the attack because ‘Club Wasantha’ failed to provide the money.

Q6: What was ‘Club Wasantha’s’ contribution to the nightlife industry in Sri Lanka? A: ‘Club Wasantha’ was a pioneer in the nightlife industry, known for creating legal and regulated entertainment venues. He worked closely with authorities to ensure proper permits and regulations, significantly contributing to the growth and safety of the nightlife scene in Sri Lanka.

Q7: How has the public reacted to ‘Club Wasantha’s’ death? A: The public reaction has been one of shock and mourning. Many people have expressed their condolences and shared memories of ‘Club Wasantha’s’ contributions to the nightlife industry and his impact on their lives, especially on social media where he had a significant following.

Q8: What legacy does ‘Club Wasantha’ leave behind? A: ‘Club Wasantha’ leaves behind a legacy of innovation and integrity in the nightlife industry. His efforts to legalize and regulate nightclubs set a benchmark for others in the business. His life and career serve as an inspiration for future entrepreneurs in the industry.

Q9: What are the next steps in the investigation? A: The police are continuing their investigation by analyzing the recovered vehicle and CCTV footage. They are working to identify and apprehend the suspects involved in the shooting to bring them to justice.

Q10: How can people stay updated on the investigation? A: People can stay updated on the investigation through news outlets and official police updates. Following credible news sources and police announcements will provide the latest information on the progress of the investigation.