Born on February 7, 1939, Ratnayake was appointed as the chief shaman of the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya on April 13, 1956.
Throughout his decades of service, he faithfully carried out the ancient religious rituals and traditional ceremonies of the Kataragama Devalaya. He was widely respected for his dedication and commitment to preserving the sacred customs and spiritual heritage associated with the shrine.
Mr.Ratnayake, who hailed from a traditional chief shaman played a significant role in maintaining and continuing the long-standing rituals and cultural traditions of the Kataragama Devalaya. His service and leadership greatly contributed to the development and prominence of the shrine over the years.
He is remembered as a devoted religious custodian who upheld the sacred duties of the Kataragama Devalaya with great discipline and reverence.
