Veteran actor J.H. Jayawardena passed away at his residence in Kandana at the age of 94.

Jayawardena was known for several roles in Sri Lankan cinema and radio and tele-dramas. His role of a chief monk in the film ‘Adishtanaya’ earned him the Best Supporting Actor Award.

Born in Kurunegala, he entered Kurunegala Maliyadeva College and represented its cricket team as an opening batsman. He entered Radio Ceylon with the help of P. Welikala, a friend from schooling days.

Known as Moneratanne Rajjuruvo (King of Moneratanna), he was best known for his majestic voice.

Jayawardena had been suffering from glucoma since 1997 and had lost his sight.