Parliament pays tribute to music icon Nanda Malini

Saturday, 22 August 2026 00:39 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

House observes minute’s silence on proposal by PM

Celebrated singer passes away aged 82

PM hails contribution to music, culture and social discourse

Opposition Leader remembers artist who stood by her principles

Nanda Malini

Parliament yesterday observed a minute’s silence in memory of veteran singer Dr. Nanda Malini, who passed away aged 82, following a proposal by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.

Delivering a condolence message on behalf of the Government, the Prime Minister said Malini’s passing marked the loss of an artist whose voice had accompanied generations of Sri Lankans through nearly seven decades.

She recalled Malini’s entry into cinema music through ‘Ran Muthu Doova’ under the mentorship of Dr. W.D. Amaradeva and said her work extended beyond music to reflect the struggles, hopes and experiences of society.

Dr. Amarasuriya said Malini used her art to speak against injustice and for peace, coexistence, humanity and social justice, citing works including ‘Pavana’ and ‘Sathyaye Geethaya’.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa also paid tribute, describing Malini as a “democratic artist” who remained committed to her principles and stood for fundamental rights and humanitarian values during difficult periods in the country’s history.

Born on 23 August 1943, Malini became one of Sri Lanka’s most recognised voices during a career spanning nearly seven decades.

Her remains will lie at her residence on Wijayaba Mawatha, Nawala, for the public to pay their respects. Religious rites will be held at 3:30 p.m. tomorrow, followed by cremation at the Borella Cemetery at 5 p.m. In accordance with her final wishes, there will be no formal funeral ceremony.