Senior Sri Lankan artist, ‘Virindu’ vocalist, and veteran dance instructor Daya Nellampitiya has passed away at the age of 91.
According to family sources, she passed away at her residence in Kalubowila.
Daya Nellampitiya served as a dance instructor at several leading schools across the island for many years. She was widely recognised as an outstanding teacher who dedicated herself to preserving and passing on the Kandyan dance tradition to thousands of children.
She was also the wife of veteran Virindu artist Sena Fonseka and served as the first teacher of numerous veteran artists who are currently active in Sri Lanka’s arts sector.
Her contribution to the preservation and promotion of Sri Lanka’s traditional folk arts, folk music, and dance, as well as her efforts to pass these traditions on to future generations, remains immeasurable.
Family sources further stated that her final rites are scheduled to be held tomorrow (15).
