Veteran Buddhist monk, award-winning lyricist and author Ven. Rambukana Siddhartha Thero has passed away at the age of 76.

Siddhartha Thero passed away while receiving treatment at a hospital after being admitted due to an illness.

Ven. Rambukana Siddhartha Thero made a significant contribution to Sri Lankan music and song literature, penning numerous popular songs that earned widespread appreciation among music lovers.

His repertoire included Buddhist devotional songs as well as songs covering a wide range of themes. Among his best-known works are La Dalu Bopath, Me Ira Handa Yata, Sanda Tharu Mal, Budu Hamuduruwo Apith Dekinnethi, Senehasa Puda, Budu Bana Esuwa, Me Prema Katha, Avvata Vessata Huru Minissunne, Veherak Wage, Pansale Palliyē and Siyaka Ayu Laba.

The Thero received the Sarasaviya Award for the song Pera Sansare, which he wrote for the film Sandakada Pahana. He was also honored with a Derana Film Award for the song Sada Paharak Se Ekamuthu Wu Da, written for the film Aloko Udapadi.

His contribution to the music industry began in 1987 with the release of the cassette Sansare Api. His subsequent works included Gammane Api, Samanala Kanda, Sansare Gee Yathika, Budu Ama Wessa and Sansara Charika, released as cassettes and compact discs.

The Thero also authored the award-winning collection of lyrics Sasara Danawwa.

Born on May 22, 1950, in Rambukana, Deniyaya, Ven. Rambukana Siddhartha Thero received his primary education at Morawaka Weliwa Buddhist Mixed School.

He later pursued higher education at Galle Hettachala Pirivena and Pepiliyana Sunethradevi Pirivena.

Ven. Rambukana Siddhartha Thero’s passing marks the loss of a respected figure who made a lasting contribution to Sri Lankan Buddhist and popular song literature.