Obituary notice
Lyricist | Creative Thinker | Civil Engineer
Introduction
Nayanasena Wanninayaka was a Sri Lankan creative artist whose contribution to music and poetry reflected a deep sensitivity to nature, emotion, and human experience. Known primarily as a lyricist, he brought evocative imagery and poetic refinement to song, enriching Sri Lanka’s contemporary musical expression. Beyond his artistic pursuits, he was also a civil engineer by profession, having completed his studies at the Hardy Advanced Technological Institute, Ampara. This rare combination of technical discipline and artistic sensibility defined both his work and his worldview.
Though he did not seek widespread public recognition, Nayanasena’s contributions endure through the words he wrote, the music he helped shape, and the memories he left behind among those who knew and worked with him.
Educational Background and Professional Life
Nayanasena Wanninayaka completed his formal technical education at the Hardy Advanced Technological Institute (HATI), Ampara, one of Sri Lanka’s respected institutions for applied and technical education. The institute has a long-standing reputation for producing skilled professionals in engineering and technology, particularly in disciplines that contribute directly to national development.
As a civil engineering graduate, Nayanasena belonged to a profession central to society’s progress. Civil engineering involves the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure such as buildings, roads, water systems, and public facilities. It demands precision, responsibility, analytical thinking, and a deep understanding of how human life interacts with the built environment.
Those who pursue civil engineering often develop a mindset rooted in structure, balance, and long-term impact—qualities that can also shape artistic expression. In Nayanasena’s case, this technical grounding appears to have complemented his creative instincts, allowing him to observe the world with both practical clarity and poetic depth.
Artistic Contribution and Lyric Writing
Nayanasena’s documented artistic legacy is found in his work as a lyricist, where his words became the emotional core of musical compositions. One notable example is the song “Thisa Wewa Langa Ralapanawe” (තිසාවැව ළඟ රළපනාවේ), for which he wrote the lyrics.
The song was:
- Lyrics: Nayanasena Wanninayaka
- Music: Nalaka Anjana Kumara
- Vocals: Krishantha Erandaka
This collaboration highlights his role in the collective creative process, where lyricist, composer, and performer come together to create a unified artistic experience.
Lyric writing in Sri Lankan music holds a special cultural position. Lyrics are not merely words set to melody; they are vehicles of memory, emotion, place, and identity. Nayanasena’s writing reflects this tradition, emphasizing imagery and atmosphere rather than overt narration.
Themes and Poetic Style
An examination of the available lyrics attributed to Nayanasena Wanninayaka reveals a strong affinity for nature-based symbolism and introspective mood. References to reservoirs, moonlight, night air, and subtle movement create a calm yet emotionally resonant setting.
Key thematic elements include:
- Nature as emotional mirror: Landscapes are not passive backdrops but active participants in expressing feeling.
- Stillness and reflection: His writing often conveys quiet moments—times of pause, memory, and contemplation.
- Cultural rootedness: By drawing inspiration from familiar Sri Lankan environments, his lyrics resonate deeply with local sensibilities while remaining universally relatable.
Such qualities suggest a lyricist who valued subtlety over excess, allowing listeners space to interpret and feel rather than be instructed.
The Intersection of Engineering and Art
What makes Nayanasena Wanninayaka particularly distinctive is the coexistence of two seemingly different worlds within one life: engineering and art.
Engineering is governed by rules, calculations, safety margins, and precision. Art, on the other hand, thrives on intuition, emotion, and abstraction. Yet both disciplines require creativity, discipline, and vision.
Nayanasena’s life demonstrates that these domains are not opposites but complements. His engineering background may have influenced the structure and clarity of his lyrical compositions, while his artistic sensibility may have brought human warmth and imagination into his professional outlook.
This balance reflects a broader truth: creativity is not confined to the arts alone, and technical professions can be deeply enriched by artistic awareness.
Public Presence and Legacy
Nayanasena Wanninayaka was not a figure of mass publicity, and much of his work exists within community, collaborative, and personal artistic circles rather than formal archives. This is true of many meaningful contributors whose impact is felt more deeply than it is documented.
His legacy lives on through:
- The songs that carry his words,
- The collaborators who shared creative journeys with him,
- The family, friends, and colleagues who remember his quiet dedication and thoughtful nature.
Such legacies are often the most enduring, rooted not in fame but in authentic contribution and human connection.
Passing and Remembrance
Nayanasena Wanninayaka passed away a few years ago, leaving behind a sense of loss among those who knew him personally and professionally. His passing marked the end of a life that gracefully balanced responsibility and creativity, logic and imagination.
While his physical presence is no longer with us, his words continue to echo through music, and his influence remains alive in memory.
Condolence and Tribute
With deepest respect and remembrance, we honour the life and legacy of Nayanasena Wanninayaka.
He was a man who quietly bridged worlds—engineering and art, structure and emotion—leaving behind work that speaks gently yet meaningfully. His contributions as a lyricist and his service as a civil engineer reflect a life lived with purpose, sensitivity, and integrity.
May his words continue to inspire reflection, and may his soul attain eternal peace.
Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and work.
May he rest in peace.
The interactive training workshop_”FUTURE READY: Building Skills for Career Success”
Successful Conclusion of “FUTURE READY” Training Workshop and Launch of Alumni Excellence Scholarship
The Hardy Advanced Technological Institute (HATI) in Ampara recently marked a significant milestone with the successful conclusion of the interactive training workshop themed “FUTURE READY: Building Skills for Career Success.” Organized, conducted, and sponsored by the Old Hardians’ Association (OHA), the distinguished alumni body of HATI. The event drew an enthusiastic participation of 300 second-year students who are preparing to embark on their industrial training.
The event was graced by an array of eminent personalities, including:
Dr. N. M. K. K. Navarathna, Deputy Director General of the Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technological Education (SLIATE),Mr. Igliyas and Mr. Raguwaran, Representatives from the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA)
The OHA leadership was strongly represented by Mr. Ashoka Jayarathne (President), Mr. Sunil Chandrakumara (General Secretary), Brig. (Rtd.) Ranjith Peramune, Mr. Padmajith Jinadasa, Mr. Deepal Rajaguru, and Mr. Mahinda Karunasena.
The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Parakrama Munaweera, a proud Old Hardian, Digital Transformation Strategist, AI & Technology Leader, and Leadership & Innovation Consultant. He delivered a highly informative and engaging session, equipping the undergraduates with vital insights to navigate the modern corporate landscape. The entire event was steered seamlessly by Mr. Padmajith Jinadasa, who served as the Master of Ceremonies with exceptional professionalism.
Empowering the Next Generation: The ‘Hardy Alumni’ Excellence Scholarship:
Demonstrating their enduring commitment to their alma mater, the OHA officially launched the ‘Hardy Alumni’ Excellence Scholarship during the event. Six deserving students were selected to receive financial backing based on a rigorous evaluation of their academic excellence, economic constraints, exemplary conduct, and social responsibility.
This inaugural round of scholarships was generously sponsored by Old Hardian Mr. Upul Jayathilaka. The Association extends its profound gratitude to Mr. Jayathilaka for his selfless generosity and investment in the students’ futures. The OHA has pledged to expand this scheme to provide financial assistance to more deserving students in the future.
In their addresses, both SLIATE Deputy Director General Dr. N. M. K. K. Navarathna and HATI Director Mr. S. L. Musthafa highly commended the Old Hardians’ Association. They acknowledged the vital and responsible role the alumni play in the holistic development of HATI and pledged their unwavering institutional support for all future OHA endeavors.
Delivering the Vote of Thanks, the General Secretary of the OHA, Mr. Sunil Chandrakumara, expressed sincere appreciation to all well-wishers and participating organizations whose invaluable contributions ensured the success of this vital educational event. He extended special gratitude to the Director General of SLIATE, Mr. Chandana Rodrigo, the Director of Training at NAITA, Mr. Jayasinghe, and the Director of HATI, Mr. S. L. Musthafa acknowledging their exceptional support and guidance throughout the initiative.
The event, which included breakfast and lunch for all attendees, concluded successfully at 1:00 PM, leaving the students inspired and better prepared for their upcoming professional journeys.
One Day Outing to Diya Ulpatha, Mathugama
Dear Members,
We are delighted to invite you and your family members to our much-awaited One Day Outing to Diya Ulpatha, Mathugama scheduled for 21st June 2026.
This special gathering is organized to strengthen our friendship, unity, and fellowship while enjoying a refreshing day surrounded by the beauty and serenity of nature. It will be a wonderful opportunity to relax, reconnect with old friends, create new memories, and spend quality time together away from our busy routines.
The program will include enjoyable activities, entertainment, fellowship, delicious meals, and plenty of fun for everyone. Your presence and active participation will undoubtedly make this outing more meaningful and memorable.
We warmly encourage all members to join this exciting trip and help make it a grand success. Let us come together for a joyful day filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable moments.
Please confirm your participation to the VP/ Recreation, Mr. Dammika Zoysa on Whatsapp 0714065075 at the earliest for organizing purposes.
We look forward to spending a wonderful day together at Diya Ulpatha!
Thank you
Annual General Meeting’ 2026 – successfully concluded
Old Hardians’ Association – AGM 2026 | Appreciation & Way Forward
The Old Hardians’ Association successfully concluded its Annual General Meeting held on 29 March 2026 at the Prof. Evan A. Hardy Centre, Ratmalana.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all members and well-wishers who took the time to participate, contribute ideas, and support the proceedings. Your presence and active involvement made the event meaningful and reaffirmed the strength and unity of our alumni community.
The AGM was not merely a statutory gathering—it was a reflection of our shared commitment to revitalizing and advancing the Association after years of inactivity. The insightful discussions, valuable suggestions, and collective enthusiasm demonstrated during the meeting have set a strong foundation for the year ahead.
As we move forward, we warmly encourage every Old Hardian to remain actively engaged in the Association’s initiatives. Your ideas, time, and participation are essential in shaping impactful programs, supporting our alma mater, and creating opportunities for the younger generation.
Let us work together to:
- Strengthen alumni connections and networking
- Support student development and mentorship initiatives
- Organize meaningful events and community service activities
- Build a sustainable and transparent Association for future generations
Your continued involvement is the key to our success.
Together, let us transform our shared vision into lasting achievements and take the Old Hardians’ Association to greater heights.
We look forward to your active participation in the upcoming activities and initiatives.
“The journey has begun—let’s move forward together.”
Chief Guest, Col. Samarasena, Mrs. Samarasena and the Executive committee
Remembering Nayanasena Wanninayaka
Lyricist | Creative Thinker | Civil Engineer
Introduction
Nayanasena Wanninayaka was a Sri Lankan creative artist whose contribution to music and poetry reflected a deep sensitivity to nature, emotion, and human experience. Known primarily as a lyricist, he brought evocative imagery and poetic refinement to song, enriching Sri Lanka’s contemporary musical expression. Beyond his artistic pursuits, he was also a civil engineer by profession, having completed his studies at the Hardy Advanced Technological Institute, Ampara. This rare combination of technical discipline and artistic sensibility defined both his work and his worldview.
Though he did not seek widespread public recognition, Nayanasena’s contributions endure through the words he wrote, the music he helped shape, and the memories he left behind among those who knew and worked with him.
Educational Background and Professional Life
Nayanasena Wanninayaka completed his formal technical education at the Hardy Advanced Technological Institute (HATI), Ampara, one of Sri Lanka’s respected institutions for applied and technical education. The institute has a long-standing reputation for producing skilled professionals in engineering and technology, particularly in disciplines that contribute directly to national development.
As a civil engineering graduate, Nayanasena belonged to a profession central to society’s progress. Civil engineering involves the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure such as buildings, roads, water systems, and public facilities. It demands precision, responsibility, analytical thinking, and a deep understanding of how human life interacts with the built environment.
Those who pursue civil engineering often develop a mindset rooted in structure, balance, and long-term impact—qualities that can also shape artistic expression. In Nayanasena’s case, this technical grounding appears to have complemented his creative instincts, allowing him to observe the world with both practical clarity and poetic depth.
Artistic Contribution and Lyric Writing
Nayanasena’s documented artistic legacy is found in his work as a lyricist, where his words became the emotional core of musical compositions. One notable example is the song “Thisa Wewa Langa Ralapanawe” (තිසාවැව ළඟ රළපනාවේ), for which he wrote the lyrics.
The song was:
- Lyrics: Nayanasena Wanninayaka
- Music: Nalaka Anjana Kumara
- Vocals: Krishantha Erandaka
This collaboration highlights his role in the collective creative process, where lyricist, composer, and performer come together to create a unified artistic experience.
Lyric writing in Sri Lankan music holds a special cultural position. Lyrics are not merely words set to melody; they are vehicles of memory, emotion, place, and identity. Nayanasena’s writing reflects this tradition, emphasizing imagery and atmosphere rather than overt narration.
Themes and Poetic Style
An examination of the available lyrics attributed to Nayanasena Wanninayaka reveals a strong affinity for nature-based symbolism and introspective mood. References to reservoirs, moonlight, night air, and subtle movement create a calm yet emotionally resonant setting.
Key thematic elements include:
- Nature as emotional mirror: Landscapes are not passive backdrops but active participants in expressing feeling.
- Stillness and reflection: His writing often conveys quiet moments—times of pause, memory, and contemplation.
- Cultural rootedness: By drawing inspiration from familiar Sri Lankan environments, his lyrics resonate deeply with local sensibilities while remaining universally relatable.
Such qualities suggest a lyricist who valued subtlety over excess, allowing listeners space to interpret and feel rather than be instructed.
The Intersection of Engineering and Art
What makes Nayanasena Wanninayaka particularly distinctive is the coexistence of two seemingly different worlds within one life: engineering and art.
Engineering is governed by rules, calculations, safety margins, and precision. Art, on the other hand, thrives on intuition, emotion, and abstraction. Yet both disciplines require creativity, discipline, and vision.
Nayanasena’s life demonstrates that these domains are not opposites but complements. His engineering background may have influenced the structure and clarity of his lyrical compositions, while his artistic sensibility may have brought human warmth and imagination into his professional outlook.
This balance reflects a broader truth: creativity is not confined to the arts alone, and technical professions can be deeply enriched by artistic awareness.
Public Presence and Legacy
Nayanasena Wanninayaka was not a figure of mass publicity, and much of his work exists within community, collaborative, and personal artistic circles rather than formal archives. This is true of many meaningful contributors whose impact is felt more deeply than it is documented.
His legacy lives on through:
- The songs that carry his words,
- The collaborators who shared creative journeys with him,
- The family, friends, and colleagues who remember his quiet dedication and thoughtful nature.
Such legacies are often the most enduring, rooted not in fame but in authentic contribution and human connection.
Passing and Remembrance
Nayanasena Wanninayaka passed away a few years ago, leaving behind a sense of loss among those who knew him personally and professionally. His passing marked the end of a life that gracefully balanced responsibility and creativity, logic and imagination.
While his physical presence is no longer with us, his words continue to echo through music, and his influence remains alive in memory.
Condolence and Tribute
With deepest respect and remembrance, we honour the life and legacy of Nayanasena Wanninayaka.
He was a man who quietly bridged worlds—engineering and art, structure and emotion—leaving behind work that speaks gently yet meaningfully. His contributions as a lyricist and his service as a civil engineer reflect a life lived with purpose, sensitivity, and integrity.
May his words continue to inspire reflection, and may his soul attain eternal peace.
Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and work.
May he rest in peace.
Old Hardians’ Association – Blood Donation Campaign | Appreciation Message
The Old Hardians’ Association successfully concluded the Blood Donation Campaign held on 3 December 2025 at the Prof. Evan A. Hardy Centre, Ratmalana, in commemoration of the 62nd death anniversary of Prof. Evan A. Hardy.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all blood donors who came forward with generosity and compassion to give the gift of life. Your selfless contribution has made a real difference, offering hope and support to those in need.
Our sincere appreciation also goes to everyone who supported this initiative—our dedicated organizers, volunteers, medical teams, and generous sponsors—whose commitment and teamwork ensured the smooth and successful completion of the campaign. Without your invaluable support, this noble effort would not have been possible.
This event was more than a donation drive; it was a true reflection of unity, kindness, and social responsibility within the Old Hardians community. It honored the enduring legacy of Prof. Evan A. Hardy by serving humanity in a meaningful and impactful way.
“A single act of kindness can save many lives—thank you for being part of this life-saving mission.”
Let us continue to stand together in such worthy causes and strengthen our commitment to community service and compassion.
We look forward to your continued support and active participation in future initiatives.