Ustaz Uvais As-Sailani remains an iconic figure in Sri Lanka’s Islamic artistic and intellectual landscape — best known as the first and only certified Arabic calligrapher in the country. Renowned for his mastery of Kufic script and his quiet dedication to the preservation of Arabic calligraphy, his legacy continues to inspire generations.
A Personal Encounter at YMMA
I met Ustaz Uvais after a long time at the Arabic Calligraphy Exhibition held yesterday at the YMMA, Dematagoda Road, Colombo 9, and was taken by surprise and joy. Sixteen of his fantastic works were on display — a truly rare and unexpected showcase of his artistic brilliance.
For years, I had been insisting that he produce a collection for an exhibition in his honor, but the idea never materialized. He always brushed it off humbly. That is why it came as a complete surprise to see him not only participating in the exhibition, but actually producing and displaying fifteen carefully prepared pieces — each one reflecting his characteristic precision, restraint, and spiritual depth.
His Enduring Legacy
Born on 23rd October 1957 in Slave Island, Colombo, Ustaz Uvais began his formal education at Zahira College, Slave Island (now T.B. Jaya Mahavidyalaya) and joined the first intake of Jamiah Naleemiah in October 1973. Although his early education was in English, he later learned Tamil and Arabic at the Jamiah — eventually becoming well known between 1975 and 1978 for his beautifully handwritten Tamil poems which were much admired.
In 1978, he was selected to pursue higher studies at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, where he completed his BA in Arabic Language and Linguistics in 1983. But it was his post-degree decision that set him apart: instead of returning to Sri Lanka, he spent four more years in Cairo (1983–1987) studying at Al-Khaleel Aga School of Calligraphy, becoming the first Sri Lankan to be officially certified in Arabic calligraphy.
Afterward, he moved to Saudi Arabia, working as a translator and secretary until his retirement in 2022. Throughout, he remained deeply engaged in Arabic calligraphy and photography, never turning them into commercial ventures, but practicing them as deeply personal and spiritual expressions. He is also interested in research about Islamic naming tradition and he practices Origami as a hobby.
Mentorship and Community Impact
From the 1990s onwards, many aspiring calligraphers sought him out in Colpetty, where he lived and quietly taught. Among his students are:Mohamed Shakeeb, Mohamed Rafees, Junaid Naseer, Ustaz Majeem and Ustaz Silmi to name a few.
He has been actively involved in the Arabic Calligraphy Association of Sri Lanka since its founding in 2017, guiding its vision and mentoring its members with his decades of wisdom and refined technique.
Artistic and Cultural Contributions
One of his earlier and most symbolic works was the calligraphy for the second issue of Islamic Sinthanai — the official magazine of Jamiah Naleemiah — which has upheld the tradition of featuring student calligraphy on its covers for 50 years. He contributed to many covers of magazines and books since then.
Yesterday's exhibition at the YMMA was a reminder of his quiet yet powerful legacy. The sixteen pieces on display captured his hallmark style — structured, meditative, and dignified — embodying the elegance of Kufic geometry and spiritual meaning.
The Man Behind the Art
Those who know Ustaz Uvais often describe him as both disciplined and deeply principled — assuming the role of a high-standard guardian of art and ethics, never compromising on integrity or craftsmanship.
Personal Life
Ustaz Uwais lives in Colpetty, Colombo, with his wife. He is a father of two children.
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