Political leaders of Sri Lanka have paid tribute to the country’s music legend Sunila Perera.
The stalwart of Sri Lanka’s baila genre had passed away this morning due to COVID-19 related complications.
Political leaders, including President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa have paid tribute to the late artist.
“A great loss for #SriLanka’s entertainment scene as veteran musician Sunil Perera passed away. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the people of Sri Lanka. May he rest in peace.” – President Gotabaya Rajapaksa
“The entertainment arena in #SriLanka will never be the same without you. My deepest condolences to the family and friends of the legendary entertainer #SunilPerera. You will be remembered forever through your music. Rest In Peace.”- Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa
“I am saddened and shocked by the sudden demise of Sunil Perera who pioneered a modern day revolution in the musical history of Sri Lanka. He was also my teacher and guru in the musical arena and I am so proud to have been associated with such a unique and talented personality. He is an immeasurable loss to the music fraternity, the people and our country, may he Rest In Peace.” – Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa
“Musician Sunil Perera, who played a pioneering role in taking Sri Lankan music to new heights, Farewell!” – MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake
“Saddened to hear of the passing of Veteran Singer & legend Sunil Perera. He will always be remembered for his iconic voice, energy and the unparallel contribution he made to #LKA‘s music industry. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family & the music fraternity.”- Namal Rajapaksa
Meanwhile, United National Party (UNP) Leader and former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe also paid tribute to the late musician.
Issuing a statement, the UNP leader said Mr. Sunil Perera passed away this morning as another victim of the corona pandemic which is currently ravaging Sri Lanka as well as around the world. The Gypsies Band, which started five decades ago, revolutionized the art of Sri Lankan music.
I have been closely associated with the family for four decades, including Sunil Perera and his father, Anton Perera. I would like to take this opportunity to recall the enjoyment of the group’s music during the last meeting of the 1977 General Election when I was contesting for the Biyagama electorate.
Mr. Sunil Perera is a humanitarian who has raised his voice for democracy and civil liberties in this country. Mr. Sunil Perera and thousands of other people have left us due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, I emphasize that we must take appropriate action now to overcome this menace. I extend my condolences to his family, including his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Ranil Wickremesinghe added. (NewsWire)