Posted on 9 January 2026:
PROF. RUWIN DIAS — THE VISIONARY MAESTRO OF SRI LANKA, RECENTLY HONORED IN INDIA WITH THE PRESTIGIOUS THIRD PRAJNA INTERNATIONAL AWARD 2026 BY THE TAPAS KUMAR PAL ACADEMY OF MUSIC AND CULTURAL FOUNDATION, KOLKATA.
Prof. Ruwin Dias: A Visionary Music Scholar and Multifaceted Maestro
Prof. (Dr.) Ruwin Rangeeth Dias (W.K.R.R. Dias) stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most distinguished figures in the world of music. A rare blend of scholar, performer and composer, he has carved a unique path that bridges tradition and modernity. His expertise spans ethnomusicology, music training, film composition and violin performance, making him equally at ease with classical depth and the vibrancy of popular genres.
Beyond performance, Prof. Ruwin Dias is celebrated as a music medicine Researcher, author and conference speaker, inspiring students and audiences alike with his knowledge and artistry. His leadership roles as former Head of the Department of North Indian Music and Director of the Career Guidance Unit at the University of the Visual and Performing Arts in Sri Lanka highlight his dedication to nurturing future generations of musicians.
His academic journey is marked by historic achievements. Prof. Ruwin Dias was the first Sri Lankan to win the prestigious gold medal for his Bachelor’s degree at Indira Kala Sangeet University (IKSU), India—an honor that also made him the first foreigner in the university’s history to receive this distinction. He further pioneered the teaching of North Indian classical violin in Sri Lanka, guiding five consecutive batches in the Master of Music program at the University of Kelaniya.
Since 2023, Prof. Ruwin Dias continues his inspiring journey as Merit Professor in Music at the Department of North Indian Music, University of the Visual and Performing Arts, Sri Lanka. He holds the prestigious A-Grade position as a classical musician with the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC). His life and work embody the harmony of scholarship and creativity, leaving a lasting imprint on the cultural landscape of South Asia.
The Educational Journey of Prof. Ruwin Dias
Prof. Ruwin Dias began his learning path at Christ King College, Tudella, Jaela, Sri Lanka, where his early foundation was laid with care and discipline. He continued his secondary education at the prestigious St. Peter’s College, Colombo – 04, a place that nurtured his growing passion for knowledge and music.
His higher studies took him beyond borders, shaping him into a true scholar of global vision. He pursued advanced education at Indira Kala Sangeeth University (IKSU), India, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in India, and Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). These institutions enriched his academic and artistic journey, giving him the depth and diversity that now define his remarkable career.
Academic and Professional Excellence
Prof. Ruwin Dias has earned a distinguished place in the world of music through both professional mastery and academic brilliance. His professional qualifications include the Visharad of Music (1996) and Nipun of Music (2004) from the Bhatkhande Music Institute, Lucknow, along with a Diploma in Vocal Music from the same institute. He also successfully completed the National Music Exam conducted by the Department of Examinations, Sri Lanka in 2009.
“Teaching music from primary school students to Master’s candidates gives me a complete perspective on music education—I see how foundations are built and how mastery is achieved. This range allows me to understand music’s complete impact on human development,” says Prof. Dr. Ruwin Dias.
His academic journey reflects deep dedication to scholarship. He holds a Bachelor of Music from Indira Kala Sangit Vishwavidyalay, Khairagarh (2001), a Master of Music from Banaras Hindu University (2003), and a Ph.D. in Music from Universiti Putra Malaysia (2015).
Prof. Ruwin Dias’s doctoral thesis, Harmonic Progressions of Hindi Film Songs based on North Indian Ragas, highlights his unique ability to blend tradition with innovation. He believes that his PhD research on Indian film music reflects a deep conviction—
“My PhD research on Indian film music represents my conviction that popular cinema and classical tradition are not separate worlds—they are the living evolution of our musical heritage, constantly informing and enriching each other.”
Prof. Ruwin Dias and His Pioneering Work in Music Therapy
Prof. Ruwin Dias leads a landmark STEM+HEMS music therapy research project funded by the World Bank, carried out in collaboration with the University of Peradeniya, the University of Ruhuna, and the University of Colombo, and based at the University of the Visual and Performing Arts. Remarkably, he is the only researcher with a musical background, working alongside eminent medical professors to bridge science and art.
He also contributes to a live music therapy project at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, also shared his expertise as a Visiting Lecturer at the Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Institute, University of Kelaniya, where he taught music therapy. His work reflects a rare harmony between scholarship, healing and creativity.
Honors and Professional Affiliations of Prof. Ruwin Dias
Prof. Ruwin Dias is an active voice in the global music community, holding memberships in esteemed organizations such as the International Association for Music & Medicine (IAMM), the International Council for Traditional Music (ICTM), the Sri Lankan Music Composers’ & Directors’ Association (SLAMCADA), and the Outstanding Song Creators Association (OSCA) Sri Lanka.
His journey is marked by many honors and awards. Among them are a World Bank–funded research grant, the “Janakala Sasthri Hones Award” from the Ministry of Education, and the Gulab Suraj Memorial Gold Medal for excellence in music. He has also received grants from the Indian Council on Cultural Relations and the HETC World Bank Project, along with two Vice Chancellors Awards for Best Senior Scholar in Outstanding (Teaching, Research and Creations). These achievements reflect his dedication to both scholarship and artistry.
Prof. Ruwin Dias believes every accolade is a collective triumph, reflecting the sacrifices, wisdom and support of those who shaped his journey.
“All my awards and achievements belong to my parents, my teachers, and everyone around me. Whatever recognition I receive is truly a collective achievement—the result of their guidance, support and belief in me.” — Prof. Dr. Ruwin Rangeeth Dias
Prof. Ruwin Dias: Composer, Musician, Editor and Mentor
Prof. Ruwin Dias has built a rich portfolio as a composer, creating music for films, documentaries, teledramas, stage plays, jingles and even music-medical tracks in Sri Lanka. Alongside his compositions, he shines as a versatile musician, performing not only on the violin but also on the viola and mandolin in the popular music industry.
His contributions extend beyond performance. Prof. Dias has served as a trusted liaison for government organizations such as the Ministry of Education and the Examination Board of Sri Lanka. In roles ranging from Selection Committee member to Chief Examiner and Music Teacher Instructor, he has shared his expertise to strengthen the nation’s musical and educational landscape.
Prof. Ruwin Dias serves as the editor of the pioneering Sri Lankan Journal of Music (Sangeeth), published by the Ministry of Education. His scholarly writings have appeared in many world-class Q1 journals, reflecting his depth and vision.
“I see myself as bridging multiple worlds—honoring classical traditions, exploring music’s therapeutic dimensions through research, and creating new works that resonate with today’s listeners.” — Prof. Dr. Ruwin Rangeeth Dias
Above all, Prof. Ruwin Dias can be described as an ethnomusicologist who seeks to connect early music traditions with the possibilities.
