“Honour the art, and the art will honour you.”Samuel J. Dass
For more than four decades, Samuel J. Dass has devoted his life to the sitar and to the growth of Hindustani classical music in Malaysia.
A pioneering performer, composer and educator, he has helped bring a Malaysian expression of Indian classical music to audiences at home and around the world. Rooted in the discipline of the classical tradition, his work also reflects the multicultural character of Malaysia through original composition, collaboration and musical exchange.
His lifelong contribution has been recognised through international championship titles, major arts awards, lifetime achievement honours and the formally conferred title “Sultan of Sitar.”
Read the full biography →Sultan of Sitar
Formally conferred by the Unique Arts Foundation, in collaboration with the National Department for Culture and Arts, Negeri Sembilan, under Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism and Culture, in recognition of his contribution to Hindustani music.
Seven Champion of the World Titles
Representing Malaysia, Samuel received seven gold medals, one silver medal and seven Champion of the World titles in a competition involving participants from 53 countries.
Lifetime Arts Achievement Award
Presented by the Sugam Culture & Heritage Foundation for distinguished service and contribution towards the growth of Indian arts in Malaysia.
Dr Ambedkar Award — Outstanding Malaysian
Presented in recognition of his contribution to Malaysia and its communities.