Major Seevaratnam Mahindan, a retired Sri Lankan Army officer who served with distinction in military education roles, has passed away at age 66. He was remembered at a memorial service for his exemplary leadership, integrity, and profound Christian faith.

Major Seevaratnam Mahindan, who served the Sri Lanka Army for a decade before retiring in 1990, passed away on 17 June 2026 at the age of 66. Born on 30 March 1960, Mahindan joined the military through the Short Service Commission in 1980 and completed officer training in India and at the Army Training Centre in Diyatalawa before being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and posted to the 4th Field Regiment Sri Lanka Artillery.

Throughout his career, Mahindan held several instructor and administrative positions that shaped generations of military officers. He served as an Officer Instructor at the Kotelawala Defence Academy and later as Adjutant at both the 4th Regiment and the Sri Lanka Military Academy. Those who trained under him recalled his combination of uncompromising professional standards with genuine care for cadets' welfare. According to a tribute published by former cadet Nilakshan Perera, Mahindan was known for his physical discipline as an accomplished martial artist and black belt, yet maintained exceptional gentleness of character.

Beyond military duties, Mahindan was recognized for his quiet acts of kindness. Perera recounted an instance when Mahindan, as Duty Officer, personally addressed cadets' concerns about meal quality and reportedly supplemented the food from his own funds without seeking acknowledgment. After leaving the military, Mahindan and his wife Dushy relocated to Toronto, Canada in October 1990, where he lived until his recent death.

A devoted Catholic throughout his life, Mahindan maintained strong Christian faith, which remained evident even during his final illness. A Requiem Mass was held on 11 July at Sacred Heart Church, Rajagiriya, attended by serving and retired military commanders, fellow officers, and family members. His legacy, according to tributes, extends beyond military accomplishments to encompass the officers he trained and the lives he touched through integrity and selfless service.