Mr. M. P. Sararuk priyadarshana

Mr. M. P. Sararuk priyadarshana

Senior Lecturer (Grade II)

Faculty of Dance and Drama
Department of Kandyan Dance

Qualifications: BPA, MA,Prathama (Kathak) 

Profile:

Mr. Sararuk Priyadarshana is a versatile and accomplished dancer, educator, and researcher specializing in the Kandyan Dance tradition of Sri Lanka. With extensive academic training and over a decade of experience as a performer and teacher, he has made significant contributions to both the practical and theoretical dimensions of traditional Sri Lankan dance. Having completed his BPA (Hons) at the University of the Visual and Performing Arts and an MA at the University of Kelaniya, he combines rigorous academic insight with exceptional traditional knowledge and mastery of practice acquired through years of dedicated training under eminent masters. His foundation in Kathak dance from Bhatkhande Sangit Vidyapith, India, further broadens his intercultural artistic perspective. As a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Kandyan Dance, Mr. Priyadarshana is deeply committed to nurturing students’ artistic growth while maintaining the purity and discipline of the Kandyan dance form. His teaching emphasizes technical precision, expressive mastery, cultural depth, and respect for traditional lineage, reflecting his passion for preserving Sri Lanka’s intangible heritage. Mr. Priyadarshana’s artistic journey has taken him to over a dozen countries, where he has performed and conducted workshops, contributing to cultural exchange and mutual understanding among nations. Recognized for his excellence in performance, deep traditional practice, and scholarly contribution, he continues to serve as a cultural ambassador, enriching the global appreciation of Sri Lankan traditional dance.

Research Interests:

  • Traditional drumming
  • Kandyan Dance and Culture
  • Dance Pedagogy and Training Methodologies
  • Cross-cultural Influence in South Asian Dance Forms
  • Traditional and Ritualistic Performance Practices
  • Movement Analysis and Body Dynamics in Dance

Publications and Research Presentations:

  1. International Research Symposium 2018, University of the Visual and Performing Arts
    “Udarata Narthana Sampradaye Hastha Dolasa Bhavithaya”
  2. IPAC International Research Symposium 2025, University of the Visual and Performing Arts
    “Standardization of Spinning Techniques in Kandyan Dance: A Study on Traditional Practice and Technical Evaluation”
  3. Debas Kathana Mudra Geetha Natya Kalawa 2019

Awards and Scholarships:

  • S. Pannibharatha Scholarship – Awarded by the Sri Sucharitha Organization for obtaining the highest marks in Kandyan Dance specialization during the academic year 2007/2008 (University of the Visual and Performing Arts).

International Performances and Cultural Engagements:

Mr. Priyadarshana has actively represented Sri Lanka in numerous international cultural festivals, workshops, and dance programs, performing in countries such as India, Australia, China, Italy, Turkey, Thailand, Malaysia, Pakistan, Jordan, Bangladesh, and Singapore.

Selected international engagements include:

  • Workshop and Cultural Program – Australia (2024)
  • Ballet Show and Multicultural Ritual Programs – Australia (2023)
  • Sri Lankan Folk Dance Festival – Australia (2019)
  • Sri Lankan Tourism Development Program – China (2018)
  • Kanakotsava Festival – Kanakapura, India (2018)
  • Sri Lankan Independence Day Festival – Dubai and Jordan (2018)
  • “Hela Waruna” Concert – Australia (2017)
  • Tourism Promotion Program – India (2016)
  • International Performing Arts Festival – Malaysia (2015)
  • Multicultural Festival – Italy (2015)
  • Cultural Program – Turkey (2013)
  • Buddhist Festival – New Delhi, India (2012)
  • ICC Cricket World Cup Opening Ceremony – Bangladesh (2011)
  • 4th SAARC Folklore & Heritage Festival – India (2011)
  • Dance and Drama Festival – Thailand (2010)
  • 3rd SAARC Folklore & Heritage Festival – India (2010) (Representing UVPA)
  • 17th World Festival of Youth and Students – South Africa (2010) (Representing UVPA)
  • Delhi International Art Festival – India (2007–2008)
  • International Buddhism Heritage Festival – Singapore (2007)
  • Navaratri Festival – India (2005)
  • Lok Virsa Mela – Pakistan (2005)

Achievements:

 

Other Links :

Google Scholar   |  ResearchGate