27/04/2026
A Life Beyond Measure: A Tribute to Prof. Nalin Abeysekara
Not everyone who rises to prominence through education, professional distinction, and authority is equally remembered for their humanity. Yet, Late Prof. Nalin Abeysekar- the former Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies, Open University of Sri Lanka, stood apart as a rare and beautiful exception. In his passing, Sri Lanka has not merely lost an academic of the highest calibre, but a truly compassionate human being—one whose presence quietly transformed lives, and whose absence now leaves a silence that words struggle to fill.
Born on the 19th of April 1975, he emerged as a true and proud product of Sri Lanka’s free education system, his life journey reflecting the enduring strength and value of that foundation. From his early days at Asoka College to his formative years at Ananda College, Colombo, young Nalin’s journey was one marked by discipline, curiosity, and an unassuming brilliance. He entered the University of Sri Jayewardenepura to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, later advancing to the University of Colombo, where he completed both his MBA and PhD in Marketing and Leadership. As a Chartered Marketer and Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM- UK), he demonstrated that true excellence lies in bridging academic knowledge with real-world professional practice. It was never the qualifications that defined him, but the purpose behind them—an enduring devotion to give back to the soil that nurtured him, done with humility and a generous heart.
At the Open University of Sri Lanka, his professional journey is nothing short of inspirational. Beginning as a probationary lecturer, he rose through every academic rank to become a Senior Professor—the highest echelon of academics, by the age of 48. His tenure as the Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies was marked by innovation, vision, and an enduring commitment to student-centred education. Yet, titles and positions never defined him; it was the way he carried them—with humility, warmth, and approachability—that endeared him to all.
His academic specializations—Marketing, Strategic Management, Leadership, and Research Methodology—were areas in which he excelled not just as a scholar, but as a communicator. He possessed the rare gift of translating complex theories into ideas that were simple, relatable, and impactful. Through his widely celebrated work, including the book “Marketing Sinhalen,” he opened doors of understanding for thousands who may have otherwise felt excluded from the language of academia. In a final, deeply symbolic gesture of inclusivity, he ensured the Tamil version of the book was completed and launched at the University of Jaffna in 2025—bridging communities through knowledge.
His influence was never confined to one institution. Prof. Abeysekara was a familiar presence across universities—state and non-state—professional institutes, and even schools across the island. Geography was never a barrier to him; if there was an opportunity to share knowledge, to inspire a young mind, or to uplift a community, he would be there. As a consultant, trainer, editor, and reviewer, he contributed immensely to the advancement of research and professional practice in Sri Lanka.
He was among the pioneers who recognised that knowledge cannot be borrowed blindly—it must be thoughtfully contextualised. He worked tirelessly to align global marketing concepts with the Sri Lankan reality, ensuring that what was taught was not only theoretically sound but also practically meaningful. Every international conference he attended and every exposure he gained was brought back home—not for personal advancement, but for national enrichment. In doing so, he remained a firm advocate and proud torchbearer of the free education philosophy championed by C. W. W. Kannangara, reflecting his deep belief in education as a force for equity and national progress. He was also one of the few distinguished recipients of the Pradeepa Pranama Award, a rare lifetime honour conferred by the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in recognition of alumni who have made outstanding contributions to the country.
Yet, beyond all his intellectual accomplishments, it was his humanity that defined him. He was never the distant, unapproachable professor. To many, he was “aiya,” “malli,” or simply “Nalin”—a friend before a figure, a mentor before a title. There was an ease about him, a warmth that dissolved barriers. He listened, he understood, and he cared—genuinely and deeply. In moments of doubt, he was reassurance. In moments of success, he was the first to celebrate others, often placing their joy above his own.
His life was also a quiet lesson in balance. Beyond lecture halls and conferences, he was a devoted husband to Ayanthi Fernando and a loving father to his son (Sanuka). Their family was one of companionship, laughter, and shared creativity bond that many admired. Together with his wife, he co-authored a beautiful collection of poems “Gahanu Sithak Saha Pirimi Sithak,” a reflection of their intellectual and emotional harmony. Despite the demands of an extraordinary career, he never lost sight of what mattered most—family, love, and presence.
A true humanist at heart, he recognised the transformative power of the arts. This vision inspired him to introduce “Kalamanakaranayata Wiramayak,” a programme aimed at instilling an appreciation for fine arts among management undergraduates. On the other hand, he was equally committed to society at large. Whether through social work, public discourse, or media engagement, his voice carried clarity, courage, and compassion. He spoke not to impress, but to influence; not to dominate, but to guide. In a time when empathy often feels scarce, he embodied it effortlessly.
Though he departed at just 51 years of age, the life he lived feels far greater in measure. It is often said that some lives are counted in years, while others are counted in impact. Prof. Nalin Abeysekara belongs firmly to the latter. His service to the nation, to education, and to humanity feels as though it spans generations.
Sri Lanka has lost not just a scholar, but a guiding light—a rare blend of intellect and heart. A man with no debts left, only a legacy that will continue to inspire, shape, and uplift long after his passing. His name will not fade, for it lives on in every student he guided, every mind he shaped, and every life he touched.
Professor Nalin Abeysekara—fondly known to many as “Nalin Aiya”—his departure has come far too soon. The world has lost not only a remarkable intellectual and accomplished professional, but a presence that was always within reach—just a call, a message, a moment away. Today, that comforting certainty is replaced by a silence that cannot be filled.
His absence is deeply felt, his service immeasurable, and his legacy everlasting.
May his noble and irreplaceable soul attain the Supreme Bliss of Nirvana.
In Loving Memory of an Irreplaceable Soul: Prof. Nalin Abeysekara
By the Marketing Alumni Association of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura
27th April 2026.
