Ven. Rambukana Siddhartha Thero, an acclaimed Buddhist monk and songwriter who significantly shaped Sri Lankan popular music, has been laid to rest following his death on August 18 at age 76.
The cremation of Ven. Rambukana Siddhartha Thero took place on the evening of August 21 at Dehiwala Sri Saranankara Grounds, bringing to a close the funeral rites for one of Sri Lanka's most respected lyricists. The ceremony commenced at 3:00 p.m., with religious rites conducted by Dr. Dimbulkumbure Sri Saranankara Wimaladhamma Thero of the Malwatte Chapter. The venerable monk's remains had been placed at Wellawatte Sri Sudharmarama Temple on August 19, allowing members of the public and the music community to pay their final respects.
Born on May 22, 1950, in Rambukana, Deniyaya, Siddhartha Thero developed into a prolific and award-winning composer whose work spanned Buddhist devotional songs and secular popular music. He began his recording career in 1987 with the cassette release "Sansare Api" and continued producing compositions across multiple formats throughout his life. Among his most celebrated works are songs such as "La Dalu Bopath," "Me Ira Handa Yata," and "Budu Hamuduruwo Apith Dekinnethi," which earned widespread recognition from listeners and music professionals alike.
The Thero's achievements included receiving the Sarasaviya Award for the composition "Pera Sansare" from the film "Sandakada Pahana" and a Derana Film Award for "Sada Paharak Se Ekamuthu Wu Da" from "Aloko Udapadi." Beyond his musical contributions, he also authored the award-winning lyrical collection "Sasara Danawwa." His educational background included studies at Galle Hettachala Pirivena and Pepiliyana Sunethradevi Pirivena. The venerable monk passed away following hospitalization for an undisclosed illness, leaving behind a substantial legacy in Sri Lankan music and Buddhist cultural expression.
