Death of popular vocalist Abeywardena Balasuriya

Ruwini JAYAWARDANA

Popular vocalist Abeywardena Balasuriya passed away on March 27. He had been receiving treatment at the Colombo National hospital for sometime. He was 63 at the time of death.

For over four decades Balasuriya had enthralled music enthusiasts as an A-Grade vocalist at Radio Ceylon and background singer for films. Piyanani, Kalpana Lova Malwane, Oben Thora Lokayak, Ralakin Thanivee, Dineka Mathuda and Ganga Ennako Ganga are some of his hits.

He was born in Mugunuwatawana, Chilaw, and entered the field in 1970. He also introduced many talented singers through Rupavahini's Nandana Vindana musical program. His wife Neranjala Sarojini Peiris is also a renowned vocalist.

The funeral will take place at the Borella Cemetery on March 31.