Sahan Ranwala

Sahan Ranwala, born on July 3, 1978, with the Sinhala name සහන් රන්වල, is a versatile artist in the Sri Lankan entertainment industry. He is primarily known as an actor in Sri Lankan cinema, stage dramas, and television. In addition to his acting skills, Sahan is also a talented musician, composer, and presenter. He holds the position of managing director at the Lionel Ranwala Folk Art Foundation, continuing the legacy of his father, Lionel Ranwala, who was a renowned figure in the Sri Lankan music industry, particularly known for his folk music.

Sahan's educational journey began at Asoka Vidyalaya in Maradana, where he completed his early education. After passing the Grade 5 scholarship examination, he pursued his studies at Ananda College. During his school days, Sahan actively participated in extracurricular activities, serving as the Chairman of the Drama Society and the Treasurer of the Broadcasting Unit. He pursued commerce stream for his A-levels and later gained admission to the University of Colombo. In addition to his degree in Business Management, Sahan also pursued Mass Media at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and completed a diploma in Journalism. He further expanded his knowledge by obtaining a degree from Sri Lanka Law College. Sahan's elder brother, Chirantha, is a television announcer and actor.

Sahan is married to Melani Ranwala, and they have a son named Seth Ranwala.

Throughout his career, Sahan has made significant contributions to the field of folk music. He began his journey in the music industry under the guidance of his father in the folk music group called Ranwala Balakaya. Following his father's passing, Sahan took on the responsibility of continuing his legacy by organizing folk music programs across the country. He has conducted various concerts, including Gama Avlanynaan, Ahasei Innawalu, Three, and Mei Avurudu Kaale. Sahan has also performed at local festivals in Galle, Colombo, and Jaffna, as well as international festivals like CHOGM. In 2003, he established Ranwala Lama Balakaya, a platform for young artists between the ages of 10 and 15.

In 1996, Sahan ventured into television as an announcer on Sirasa TV, hosting the program "Kala Kalasa." He made his acting debut in 2003 in the television serial "Ranga Madala Samuganee," directed by Milton Jayawardhane. Sahan's talent in drama was recognized when his play "Velava Keeyada?" reached the finals of the State Drama Festival in 2009. Currently, he hosts a children's program called "Puduma Iskole."

Sahan's contributions to folk music have garnered recognition, with Ranwala Balakaya winning the award for "Best Performing Folk Song Troupe" at the Folk Songs Festival in Guangxi, China, in 2011. He is also the author of the book "Welawa Keeyada" and conducts folk song courses in Battaramulla on Sundays. Ranwala Balakaya has released albums such as "Gama Avulannan" and "Yuddhetath Evith" in VCD and DVD formats.

In 2012, Sahan initiated the musical program "Gayamu" at BMICH Kamatha. In 2016, he organized the presentations "Jana Gee Ekassa" and "Dekassa" for children at the Bishop's College Auditorium.

Sahan's film career began in 2004 with the movie "Aadaraneeya Wassaanaya," where he played a supportive role. He also appeared in the television series "Paba" in 2006, directed by Mahesh Rathsara Madduma Arachchi.

On December 1, 2019, Sahan, along with Ranwala Balakaya, organized a folk musical show titled "Ran Salakuna" at Kularatne Hall, Ananda College. In January 2021, he launched "Ranwala Lanka e-school," an educational initiative covering various subjects, including folk songs and performing arts, catering to both international and local syllabi.