Several local sports personalities, musicians, and politicians have paid tribute to Sri Lanka’s larger-than-life music legend Sunil Perera who passed away this morning.
It has been reported that the 68-year-old, who was one of the stalwarts of Sri Lanka’s baila genre, had died due to COVID-19 related complications.
Perera, who was discharged after recovering from Covid, had been readmitted a few days ago due to an illness, and sadly passed away this morning.
Several renowned personalities in Sri Lanka have paid tribute to the legend.
“The passing of a legend. A kind, gentle and generous man who moved us with song and rhythm. Small made but giant in influence and heart. An icon but more to me a dear friend. Rest In Peace Sunil Aiya. We will miss you. You will sing with the angels now.”- Kumar Sangakkara
“A sad goodbye to Sunil Perera a true legend who entertained us from cradle to grave. RIP.”- Sanath Jayasuriya
“RIP Legendary Sri Lankan Singer Sunil Perera – you will be missed but we shall cherish his memory and always remember him by his great songs!”- Chaminda Vaas
“Innaillahi wainnillahai rajiun! Terrible news to wake up to❤️ Rest In Peace Sunil uncle❤️ So many good memories & music to remember! You will be missed.”- Farveez Maharoof
“Sunil Aiya our legend … you will be forever missed by your family, everyone in the music industry, the entire country, and Sri Lankans living around the world. You were a pillar of strength to BNS during the years we started off! Goodbye our dear aiya, friend and legend !!!!”- Bathiya N Santhush
“So sad to hear about #SunilPerera. When he was released from the hospital, I thought, at least one less thing to be sad about. What a great entertainer – and someone who lived his life joyfully and honestly.
He was no saint and he never pretended to be one. My mother and he were buddies – they would chat on many unlikely topics – mental health, politics, religion and family.
He turned up for my parent’s 50th-anniversary party many years ago and belted out a few bailas much to our delight. His music will continue to bring joy to generations but the world feels a little less joyful with his passing.”- Dr. Harini Amarasuriya
“Rest in power Legend. What a loss to the music industry but your music will live eternally even after we are no more. That’s the legacy you left behind. What a party it must be up there.” – Rehan Jayawickreme
“The end of an era of one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic musicians. Sunil transcended all boundaries, tugging at heartstrings of all Sri Lankans while addressing sociopolitical issues through satire, which earned the ire of some and the love of many. He will be missed. Rest In Peace.”- Ali Zahir Moulana
(NewsWire)