Dayan Witharana stands as a prominent figure in Sri Lanka, renowned for his dual contributions to the fields of music and photography. With a repertoire encompassing over 485 songs across various genres, his influence on the Sri Lankan music industry is profound and enduring.
Early Life and Background
Born in Nuwara Eliya, Dayan was the youngest of three children, with two elder sisters, Niranjali Sunethra and Nirmali Savithri. His father, Piyasena Witharana, was a Local Government Officer, and his mother, Nalini Daisybelle Jayasooriya, was a dedicated homemaker. The family’s relocation to Kandy in 1967 marked the beginning of Dayan’s educational journey, which saw him attend Dharmaraja College and later St. Thomas’ College in Matale.
Following the untimely death of his father in 1976, Dayan’s mother took on the responsibility of supporting the family through cookery and needlework classes. Despite these challenges, Dayan pursued his education and moved to Colombo in 1986, eventually settling in Kamathawatte, Rajagiriya in 1992.
Personal Life and Heritage
Dayan’s lineage is distinguished, with his maternal grandfather, Don Alvis Dias Jayasooriya, serving as the village Headman, known as ‘Alvis Ralahamy’. His mother was the eldest of two children, with a younger brother named Mahinda. Adhering to Buddhist principles, Dayan has chosen to remain single and has publicly stated his decision not to marry.
Musical Achievements
Dayan’s musical career commenced in 1982 when he joined Nanda Malini’s music academy. Alongside contemporaries such as Deepika Priyadarshani, Wasantha Thilakangani, and Anusha Malwatte, Dayan formed choir groups for Nanda Malini’s musical performances. His debut song, “Waten Eha,” written by Prof. Sunil Ariyaratne and composed by Rohana Weerasinghe, marked the beginning of a successful career in music.
In 2002, Dayan released his first album, “Obe Susum Pawan Salai,” featuring popular tracks like “Mahada Adunu Ruwa,” “Daffodil Mala,” “Obe Neela Neth,” “Mage Jeewithe,” and “Mawune Sada.” His 2016 hit “Waradak Nokiyama,” composed by Danushka Kumarathunga, further cemented his popularity among fans.
A significant contribution to his musical oeuvre includes the tribute song for Ven Gangodawila Soma Thero, “Deyak Pubuduvalu,” which resonated deeply with the public. This song, initiated by Chamika Munasinghe and featuring contributions from Ravi Siriwardena and H.M. Jayawardena, highlighted Dayan’s versatility and depth as an artist.
Photography Career
Dayan’s passion for photography was sparked in 1985 with his desire to photograph actress Vasanthi Chathurani. His initial significant assignment was the wedding of his boss’s daughter, Sonali de Silva. Over the years, Dayan has become one of Sri Lanka’s most sought-after photographers, capturing the essence of numerous celebrities and public figures.
Spanning over three decades, his photography career is marked by an unwavering commitment to artistic excellence and meticulous attention to detail, making him a favored choice among celebrities and the general public alike.
Cinematic Contributions
In 2006, Dayan expanded his artistic repertoire by venturing into cinema, making his debut in the film “Sewwandi” where he portrayed the character Mahinda. This foray into acting showcased his versatility and added another dimension to his multifaceted career.
Legacy and Impact
Dayan Witharana’s extensive contributions to music and photography have left an indelible mark on Sri Lankan culture. His dedication to his crafts, coupled with his artistic talents, continues to inspire future generations of artists. Whether through his evocative songs or his captivating photographs, Dayan remains a cherished and influential figure in Sri Lanka’s artistic landscape.
