Veteran Sri Lankan music composer, instrumentalist, and director Dr. Shelton Premaratne passed away today (30) in Australia at the age of 94.

Dr. Premaratne was celebrated for pioneering a unique and original style in Sinhala music, distinct from Hindi and Tamil influences. 

His mastery of Eastern and Western instruments left an indelible mark on Sinhala cinema, theatre, and classical music.

With over 30 stage productions and 21 Sinhala films to his credit, including popular works like "Hunuwataye Kathawa" and "Romeo Juliet Kathawak," Dr. Premaratne's contributions to the cultural landscape of Sri Lanka are unmatched. 

He was residing in Sydney, Australia, with his son at the time of his passing.