Sri Lanka mourns the passing of prominent businessman Lalith Kotelawala, a renowned figure in the nation's financial sector. At the age of 84, Kotelawala's life journey encompassed significant contributions to the business landscape of the country, earning him recognition as one of Sri Lanka's richest individuals in the 2007 Sri Lanka Richest List.

Kotelawala was not only a pioneering figure in the world of finance but also played a vital role as the founding Chairman of Seylan Bank, leaving an indelible mark on the banking industry. His dedication to the sector contributed to its growth and development, shaping the nation's financial landscape.

However, his later years were marred by legal issues, including allegations of misappropriation of significant sums. In particular, he faced accusations of misappropriating 26 billion rupees of investments from the failed Golden Key Company, which led to legal proceedings and subsequent remand.

Lalith Kotelawala's passing marks the end of an era in Sri Lanka's business world. His legacy, marked by both success and controversy, reflects the complexities of a multifaceted career that had a substantial impact on the nation's financial and business sectors.