The 88th birthday of Pundit Dr. W.D. Amaradeva was marked at an event held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall in Colombo on Saturday.

The event was graced by President Maithripala Sirisena.

Notable works composed by Pundit Amaradeva were performed at the 88th birthday commemoration on Saturday.

Addressing the gathering, President Sirisena lauded Pundit Amaradeva’s immeasurable contribution to the country’s arts and culture.

The President, Pundit Amaradeva and other artistes proceeded to sing the next song together.

Born on December 5, 1927, Pundit Amaradeva is widely recognised as pillar of South Asian music, using his mastery of instruments like the Sitar, Tabla and Harmonica to revolutionise Sinhalese folk music.

In recognition of his service to music, Punidt Amaradeva has been honoured at home and across the world, being accorded the Ramon Magsaysay award from the Philippines, the title of Padma Shri from India and the title Kalakeerthi in Sri Lanka.

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