Three-day mourning period for Nanda Malini - Final rites on Saturday 22nd

The government has decided to declare August 21, 22, and 23, 2026, as national days of mourning due to the demise of Sri Lanka's foremost vocalist, Visharada Dr. Nanda Malini. The upcoming Saturday (22), when her final rites are to be held, is also included.

The Government Information Department states that further details regarding the declaration of these national days of mourning are expected to be released by the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government in due course.

As stated by Professor Sunil Ariyaratne, all arrangements have been made for the body of the late veteran musician to be placed for public homage from 10:00 AM tomorrow (21). The public will have the opportunity to pay their last respects to her at her residence on Wijayaba Mawatha, Nawala.

After religious rites are performed at 3:30 PM on Saturday, the body is scheduled to be taken to the Borella General Cemetery. Professor Sunil Ariyaratne further confirmed that, respecting the paramount singer's last wishes to the fullest, family members have decided to conduct the final rites at 5:00 PM on Saturday at Borella Cemetery without organizing any official or special funeral ceremonies.