Celebrated Artist Ria Meera Munshi Honoured with Doctor of Arts Degree by the University of Salford
In a momentous recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the cultural and creative industries, Ria Meera Munshi, a multi-skilled and multi-award-winning artist and entrepreneur, has been awarded an honourary Doctor of Arts degree by the University of Salford. The ceremony celebrated her illustrious career as a performer, choreographer, writer, director, speaker, actor, model, presenter, and businesswoman—all achieved while bravely managing multiple chronic health conditions.
At just 35 years old, Ria, a graduate of Salford’s BA Performance program, has accomplished an array of milestones. In 2011, she founded Ri Ri’s Dance Academy, an acclaimed Indian-inspired dance and theatre production company. Throughout her career, Ria has faced immense challenges, including her diagnoses of Raynaud’s syndrome, mixed connective tissue disease, and most recently, systemic lupus erythematosus—a condition that causes joint pain, skin rashes, and fatigue with no known cure.
Despite these hurdles, Ria has continued to teach and perform, defying the odds with resilience and passion. Reflecting on her journey, Ria said: “I truly believe that by immersing myself in my work, I’ve been able to fight these conditions and even help my body heal. Performing gives me joy and purpose, and seeing someone smile because of my dance motivates me to spread more kindness and love through the arts.”
A trained Bharatnatyam dancer and a holder of a Bollywood Guinness World Record, Ria has choreographed for Hollyoaks, appeared as Dr. Chatterjee on Coronation Street, and starred in a British Airways India commercial.
Beyond performance, she has co-presented the Manchester Cultural Awards, spoken on behalf of the Department for Education, and worked extensively with disadvantaged and underrepresented communities. Her efforts have earned her the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award and a Certificate of Recognition from the British Citizen Award.
Ria has remained deeply connected to the University of Salford since her graduation, dedicating 14 years to various University-led projects and initiatives. On receiving news of her honorary degree, Ria shared: “I was speechless—it felt surreal! Staying connected to Salford has been so fulfilling, and I am grateful for the inspiring people I’ve met. I hope I’ve enriched others’ lives as much as they have inspired me.”
Ria’s artistic philosophy centers on spreading positivity and fostering cross-cultural understanding through her work. She reflected: “Every day, I ask myself if I’ve made someone smile, introduced them to a new feeling or culture, or inspired them in some way. That focus has guided me through even the most challenging times.”
Ria’s remarkable story of perseverance, talent, and giving back to the community is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs. Her honorary degree not only honors her achievements but also highlights the University of Salford’s commitment to celebrating exceptional contributions to culture and society.