Maryansel Gunathilaka bids farewell

That unparalleled, vibrant voice, which for over five decades entertained the Sri Lankan stage and the hearts of fans with its unique and exquisite melodies, has been silenced forever.

Veteran singer Mariyacel Gunathilaka, who left an indelible mark in the field of Western-style fast rhythm and pop music in this country, passed away this morning (10). She was 68 years old at the time of her death and had been receiving inpatient treatment at Kalubowila Teaching Hospital due to an illness that developed over the past few days, her family members confirm.

Upon hearing the news of her sudden demise, the entire music industry, as well as Sri Lankan fans both local and abroad, are deeply shocked and saddened. Mariyacel, affectionately embraced by fans as 'Kandy Lamissi,' was not merely a singer but a revolutionary who breathed new life into the Western-style baila music art in this country. Her departure is an unbearable loss for her beloved fans, as well as for her only son and other family members.

She began her musical journey at the age of seven by playing the guitar and entered the field fatefully by winning an All-Island talent competition at the age of ten. The song 'Kandy Lamissi,' which she gifted in the late 1970s, was a massive turning point in Sri Lankan pop music, and from then on, she etched indelible memories in the hearts of fans through numerous timeless classics such as 'Rahasai Sonduru Jeeve,' 'Sihina Nelum Mal,' 'Nelum Male Pethi Kadala,' and 'Kumaranane.' Her talent, standing shoulder to shoulder with giants of local music like Clarence Wijewardena, M.S. Fernando, and Sunil Perera, is highly commendable.

This courageous woman, who shook the stage, even overcame a severe car accident in 1977, demonstrating her unbreakable spirit. Although she later dedicated her life to religious devotion, no one can forget the wonderful vitality and vibrancy she brought to the art of music. Even though she has departed, how to fill the void of her unique style, a blend of Western and local influences that she gifted to the country's music scene, remains a significant question for the entire industry.

Although her beautiful, captivating smile on stage can no longer be seen live, the fast-paced melodies of 'Kandy Lamissi' will forever echo in the hearts of the Sri Lankan people.