Sri Lanka Announces Three Days of National Mourning For Late Visharada Dr. Nanda Malini

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The government has declared today (21), tomorrow (22) and the following day (23) as National Days of Mourning due to the passing of Visharada Dr. Nanda Malini. 

The Government Information Department said further details regarding the decision will be issued by the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government.

The mortal remains of Visharada Dr. Nanda Malini will be placed at the Nanda Malini Music Academy on Wijayaba Mawatha, Nawala, in Nugegoda, from 10:00 a.m. today, to allow the public to pay their final respects.

Professor Sunil Ariyaratne said the final rites will be held at 5 p.m. tomorrow at the Borella Cemetery.

No funeral ceremony will be held for the remains.

Nanda Malini, who made an exceptional contribution to Sri Lanka’s music industry, passed away yesterday afternoon at the age of 82.

She had been ill for a short period and passed away at her residence in Nawala.

For decades, Nanda Malini stood as one of the most respected and influential figures in Sri Lankan music. 

Her passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in the nation's cultural history, but her songs, ideals and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of millions. 

Her songs echoed through family homes, radio broadcasts, concert halls and national events, accompanying moments of joy, sorrow, reflection and celebration. Few artistes have been able to bridge generations in the way she did, remaining relevant and deeply respected across changing eras.

With her passing, Sri Lanka bids farewell to a musical giant, but her legacy remains immeasurable. The songs she gifted to the nation will continue to inspire, comfort and unite people for generations to come.

Though the voice has fallen silent, the music of Nanda Malini will echo forever through Sri Lanka's history.