Jayasundarawas killed in a December 11 grenade attack at a
music concert that had drawn controversy because it was held on the
anniversary of a Buddhist cleric’s death.
Jayasundara was on assignment for Wijeya Publications, a sponsor of
the event and publisher of several English- and Sinhala-language newspapers
and magazines.
He was standing in the area between the stage and the VIP enclosure
when the grenade exploded, according to news reports.
The Sri Lankan government vowed a full investigation into the case,
which it has called “a mindless attack by lawless elements.” No group
took responsibility for the attack. A hotel employee was also killed,
and many others were injured, according to news reports.
The show featured Bollywood stars such as Shahrukh Khan, drawing thousands
of spectators and setting off protests in Colombo. Hours before the
grenade exploded, police clashed with demonstrators who were angry
that the musical event coincided with the first anniversary of the
death of Buddhist cleric and Sinhala Buddhist nationalist Ven. Gangodawila
Soma Thera.