Dr Nanda Malini, who made an immeasurable contribution to Sri Lankan music, passed away yesterday (20). She was 82 years old. According to family sources, she passed away at her residence in Nawala.

Born on 23 August, 1943, she displayed her talent for singing from a very young age. As a teenager, she moved to the Kotahena area of Colombo and enrolled at Sri Gunananda Vidyalaya. There, her singing talent was recognised by her teachers, whose guidance helped pave the way for her entry into the music industry.

A teacher who noticed her talent at a competition introduced her to Lama Mandapaya, a popular radio programme hosted by Karunaratne Abeysekera. It was there that she sang Budu Saadu. a song that became immensely popular and opened a new chapter in her musical career.

The guidance and support she later received from Sarath Wimalaweera of Radio Ceylon also played an important role in helping her career flourish.

In 1961, production began on Ran Muthu Doowa, regarded as Sri Lanka's first colour film, with the music composed by Pandit W D Amaradeva.

Dr Malini was given the opportunity to sing a duet with Narada Disasekara for the film. Her first film song was Galana Gangaki Jeevithe, which went on to become hugely popular.

She subsequently appeared in popular musical programmes such as Pandit Amaradeva's Madhuwanthy, further establishing her reputation through songs including Sannaliyane and Ran Dahadiya Bindu Bindu.

Her contribution extended far beyond love songs. She gifted Sri Lankan audiences a vast collection of religious songs, children's songs and socially conscious compositions.

Over several decades, Dr Nanda Malini received numerous awards in recognition of her contribution to Sri Lankan music. She won 12 Sarasaviya Awards and 10 Presidential Awards as Best and Most Popular Female Singer.