Sri Lanka’s Hip Hop Trailblazer, Ashanthi, has been honored with the prestigious Ashanthi VIMA Award. Recognized globally as Sri Lanka’s hip hop queen, Ashanthi received the coveted VIMA Global Icon Award at the VIMA Music Awards ceremony held in Malaysia. VIMA Founder Siva Zaphod Chandran presented the award, celebrating Ashanthi’s profound contributions and significant impact on the global music industry and across South Asia. This Ashanthi VIMA Award is the highest international recognition from VIMA.
Ashanthi: A Trailblazer’s Journey and the Ashanthi VIMA Award
Ashanthi stands as a pioneering artist, notably Sri Lanka’s first female rapper, making her a unique figure in the music industry. She is also the sole Sri Lankan female artist signed to a major international record label, Universal Music India. With a career spanning over two decades, Ashanthi has consistently redefined the Sri Lankan music scene, establishing herself as a powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, and producer, and a true cultural icon. Her dedication and artistic merit are further validated by receiving the Ashanthi VIMA Award.
The Voize Independent Music Awards (VIMA)
Established in 2008, the Voize Independent Music Awards (VIMA) is Asia’s premier independent music awards platform, dedicated to nurturing musical creativity and inspiring talented artists across the continent. VIMA acknowledges both independent and mainstream musicians, and is a significant event in Southeast Asia, having launched numerous music careers. After a hiatus, VIMA is set to relaunch in 2026, continuing its mission under the leadership of its founder, Siva Zaphod Chandran, a seasoned professional in media and music promotion. The platform’s commitment to recognizing artists like Ashanthi is unwavering.
Ashanthi’s Legacy Built on Music
Ashanthi embarked on her music career over twenty years ago, releasing her first major label album in 2002. Her distinctive musical style masterfully blends hip hop and R&B with pop and ethnic influences. As an independent music awards Asia has come to recognize, she has released three best-selling albums in Sinhalese: Oba Magemai, Sandawathuren, and Daas Paanawa. Her international crossover album, Rock the World, featured collaborations with renowned international artists. Ashanthi’s performance prowess has graced global stages, including iconic venues like the Sydney Opera House and The O2 in London, showcasing her reach as a South Asian music artist.
Past Achievements and Future Inspiration: The Ashanthi VIMA Award Context
Ashanthi’s history with VIMA is significant; she previously garnered multiple awards in 2011, including Best Female Singer (Gold) and Best Hip Hop Act of Asia (Silver). These earlier accolades were pivotal moments, underscoring the power of music to transcend borders and solidifying her status. The recent Ashanthi VIMA Award, the Global Icon Award, further recognizes her sustained influence and her role in inspiring young musicians. Ashanthi continues to champion the idea of fearless creation and artistic authenticity, urging aspiring artists to let their unique stories resonate. Her music career is a testament to this.
A Global Milestone: The Ashanthi VIMA Award
Securing the VIMA Global Icon Award marks a major milestone in Ashanthi’s celebrated career, acknowledging over two decades of unwavering dedication to music. Her work has undeniably shaped the contemporary music landscape of Sri Lanka and continues to bring attention to the vibrant South Asian music scene. This prestigious recognition, coinciding with VIMA’s upcoming relaunch, solidifies Ashanthi’s position as a leading artist and proves that Asian music can indeed rival global standards. This top honor heralds a significant new chapter for this exceptional female rapper Sri Lanka is proud of.
