27.10.2008

The funeral of internationally renowned music maestro Premasiri Khemadasa will take place at 4 p.m. at the Independence Square, Colombo today (27).

The funeral arrangements have been made on the directives of President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The remains of Premasiri Khemadasa will leave his 51/5, Hewavitarana Mawatha residence, Rajagiriya at 2 p.m. for the Independence Square. The music maestro passed away at the age of 71 at a private hospital in Colombo on Friday(24Oct).

Dr. Khemadasa has composed music for many Sinhala language films, including “Nidhanaya”, “Agnidahaya” and “Ammavarune” and is widely considered “a pioneer of indigenous music” at a time when Hindi and Tamil copies flooded the airwaves.

He has held several shows in many world capitals, enriched local theatre, ballet, symphony and the Sinhala film and television industry with his vast repertoire.

The last rites of Premasiri Khemadasa will be telecast via Rupavahini live from Independence Square today.