Nanda Malini’s 83rd birth anniversary falls today, days after her passing

Today (August 23) marks the 83rd birth anniversary of veteran Sri Lankan singer Dr. Nanda Malini, who made an invaluable contribution to Sri Lanka’s music industry.

She was 82 years old when she passed away at her residence in Nawala on August 20, 2026.

Nanda Malini was born on August 23, 1943, in Lewwanduwa, Aluthgama.

Many songs she performed during her long musical career became extremely popular among music lovers in Sri Lanka.

Among them were “Perada Maha Re,” “Pahan Kanda,” “Sathyaye Geethaya,” the “Pawana” song collection, “Hemanthayedi,” “Tharuka Es,” “Pawena,” “Sindu Hodiya,” “Kinduriyakage Wilapaya,” “Madu Bandun,” “Handahami,” “Sankha Padma,” “Pembara Lanka,” “Gramophone Gee,” “Araliya Landata,” “Nilambare,” “Pirith Pan,” and “Obai Ramya Sanda Kirana.”

She also received numerous awards in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Sri Lanka’s music industry over several decades.

Following her passing, the Government declared a three-day period of national mourning from August 21 to 23.

Her remains were placed at the Nanda Malini Sangeetha Ashramaya in Nawala, where large numbers of people from across the country, including politicians, artists and members of the public, gathered to pay their final respects.

After religious observances were conducted yesterday morning (August 22), her remains were taken in a funeral procession to the Borella Cemetery at 3:30 PM.

In accordance with her last wishes, the cremation was held without any ceremonial gathering or condolence speeches.

Her final rites concluded with the cremation yesterday afternoon, bringing to a close the life of one of Sri Lanka’s most respected and influential singers.