Veteran Artist and Dance Instructor Daya Nellampitiya Passes Away at 91

Senior Sri Lankan artist, renowned ‘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.

Nellampitiya served as a dance instructor at several leading schools across Sri Lanka for many years. She was widely respected as an exceptional teacher who dedicated her life to preserving and passing on the traditional Kandyan dance heritage to thousands of children.

She was also the wife of veteran Virindu artist Sena Fonseka and served as the first teacher of many prominent artists who are active in Sri Lanka’s arts sector today.

Her lifelong contribution to the preservation and promotion of Sri Lanka’s traditional folk arts, folk music, and dance was immense. Through her teaching and dedication, she played a significant role in ensuring that the country’s rich artistic traditions were passed on to future generations.

Family sources said her final rites are scheduled to be held tomorrow (15).