Silent tears rolled down my cheeks and I saw my husband sobbing – when on March 26 at 11.45 p.m. we heard the sad news of the demise of veteran singer/artiste Abeywardena Balasuriya.
I met Mr. Balasuriya and his wife Niranjala Sarojini 20 years back when I was working at Coca-Cola Company. Mr. Balasuriya handled the Coca-Cola musical shows successfully as he had an inborn talent for organising any event. I was privileged to have met him and Niranjala which paved the way for a life-long friendship.
Mr. Balasuriya had many good qualities, one of the noblest being his willingness to help the less fortunate, irrespective of their caste, creed or race.
I recollect the days when his mother was sick and he visited her at Chilaw even amidst his busy schedule.
As his mother was bedridden during the latter stages, he got a special bed with all the comforts and even got special clothes stitched to make her comfortable.
When his elder sister was down with a terminal illness, he took her to his home at Maharagama and cared for her with Niranjala’s help, until her death.
The life led by Mr. Balasuriya and his wife is an example for all of us. Amidst the ups and downs of life, they were always very happy together, helping people around them. His love and care towards his family members were commendable.
Mr. Balasuriya was straightforward and outspoken. He was a man of principles, and whenever he saw an injustice was the first to speak out and take action against it.
He and Niranjala had a great belief in God Kataragama and took us with them when they went to worship there.
He found jobs for many people and helped the less-privileged overcome their financial difficulties. A staunch Buddhist, he respected all other religions. He was loved both by the Maha Sangha and the Catholic clergy.
Dear Mr. Balasuriya, though you are no more you will always be in our hearts as a loving and caring elder brother and wonderful human being. Thank you very much for all your valuable advice, guidance and precious friendship.
May you once more be born among us in this voyage of Sansara and be blessed with good health and long life.
Renuka Gunasekera |
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