Chief incumbent of Atamasthana, Most Ven. Dr. Pallegama Siriniwasa Nayaka Thera passed away early this morning (19), aged 69 years.
The prelate was receiving treatment at a private hospital in Colombo for an ailment he suffered three weeks ago.
Born in Matale in 1953 and named Jayatilake, he entered the priesthood in 1968.
Ven. Sirinivasa Thera was ordained in 1975.
He graduated from the Kelaniya University in 1983 and was appointed chief priest of several Buddhist religious places.
Ven. Sirinivasa Thera succeeded Ven. Pallegama Gnanaratana Thera as the chief incumbent of Atamasthana in 1997.
State funeral
Meanwhile, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has appointed Governor of the North Central province Maheepala Herath & Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Vidura Wickramanayaka to coordinate arrangements for the full state-sponsored funeral of Most. Ven. (Dr) Pallegama Siriniwasa Thero, the President's Media Division said.
