Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya today delivered a moving condolence message in Parliament on behalf of the government, mourning the sudden demise of veteran singer Dr. Nanda Malini, who was revered as the golden voice of Sri Lankan music.

The Prime Minister said she was deeply saddened by the loss of Malini, who enriched the nation’s music and cultural landscape for nearly eight decades with her unparalleled vocal artistry. She described the passing as not only the loss of an incomparable artistic personality but also the departure of a familiar voice that had accompanied generations in moments of both joy and sorrow.

Recalling Malini’s journey from childhood performances such as “Budu Saadu Mama Sandun Gasak Wennam” to her entry into cinema music through Ran Muthu Doova under the mentorship of Dr. W.D. Amaradeva, Amarasuriya noted that her voice became a constant presence in homes, schools, festivals, and national occasions. Many of her songs, she said, were not merely listened to but became part of the lives of Sri Lankans.

The Prime Minister emphasised that Malini’s career was not only a chapter in Sri Lankan music but also a living expression of the country’s social movements and human emotions. Going beyond themes of love and separation, she gave voice to the suffering, fears, hopes, and struggles of ordinary people, making her songs resonate as the voice of society itself.

Amarasuriya highlighted Malini’s fearless role as an artist who never detached herself from society, raising her voice against injustice and for peace, coexistence, humanity, and social justice. Through works such as Pavana and Sathyaye Geethaya, she demonstrated that an artist’s voice could speak for the pain of society and inspire hope for a better future.

Sharing personal reflections, the Prime Minister said Malini’s songs were tied to moments of happiness, sorrow, and reflection, becoming part of the lived experiences of generations. She stressed that beyond awards and honours, the true measure of Malini’s legacy was the love she earned in the hearts of the people.

Amarasuriya recalled with emotion the opportunity she had exactly one year ago to celebrate Malini’s 82nd birthday and to express love and respect while experiencing her melodious voice in person. She added that although Malini’s voice has now fallen silent, her songs, artistic tradition, and example will continue to guide future generations.

Concluding her message, the Prime Minister paid her deepest respect to Malini, describing her as an immortal figure in Sri Lankan music whose voice was embraced with love by generations. She extended condolences to Malini’s two daughters, her family, and to all Sri Lankans who cherished her music, while wishing the late singer eternal peace. (Newswire)

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today expressed sorrow in Parliament over the demise of veteran singer Nanda Malini, describing her as a “democratic artist” who stood with the people throughout her career.

Premadasa said Malini embodied human kindness, compassion, and sympathy, and was a rare artist who consistently acted according to her conscience and humanitarian values. 

He recalled her courage and skill in music, noting that during the 1977 election campaign, when most musicians aligned with the United National Party stage, Malini chose not to, instead remaining true to her principles.

Highlighting her role in Sri Lanka’s democratic history, Premadasa said Malini stood firmly for youth, human resources, humanitarianism, and fundamental rights during difficult periods such as 1971, 1988, and 1989, even when governments of the time opposed her and restricted her access to state media.

He further described Malini as a distinguished artist, whose talent and strength placed her among the finest of her contemporaries, including Latha Walpola and Angeline Gunathilaka.

Her pure character and refusal to bow to external pressures, he said, made her an example to all Sri Lankans.

Premadasa concluded that her passing is a profound loss, leaving the nation without one of its most principled and compassionate voices in music. (Newswire)

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Parliament today (21) observed a minute of silence in memory of veteran Sri Lankan singer Nanda Malini, following a proposal presented by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya during the morning session.

Nanda Malini, widely regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated vocalists, passed away at the age of 82 at her residence in Nawala. 

Born on August 23, 1943, she enjoyed a career spanning nearly seven decades, becoming a defining voice in Sinhala music. 

According to family arrangements, Nanda Malini’s remains will be kept at her residence on Wijayaba Mawatha, Nawala, from 10 am today for public respect. 

Religious rites will be performed at 3.30 pm on Saturday, after which her remains will be taken to the Borella Cemetery for cremation.

In line with her final wishes, the last rites will be conducted at 5.00 pm at Borella Cemetery without a formal funeral ceremony. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation’s (SLBC) 09th studio will be officially named the Dr. Nanda Malini Studio, SLBC Chairman Uditha Gayashan Gunasekara announced.

According to the SLBC Chairman, the 09th studio will be officially named during an event held at 8:30 am tomorrow, to be graced by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and Minister of Mass Media Nalinda Jayatissa.

Renowned figures from Sri Lanka’s musical and literary spheres, including Professor Sunil Ariyaratne and veteran lyricist Kularatne Ariyawansa, are also expected to attend the event.

The ceremony will include the unveiling of the portrait of the renowned Sri Lankan singer, Dr. Nanda Malini, marking the studio’s inauguration.

The SLBC Chairman added that, additionally, a special tribute gift will be presented to Dr. Malini in honour of her contributions. (Newswire)

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