Since its inception in the year 1886 by Col. Henry Steel Olcott, Ananda College has been the securer of Buddhism within and beyond the borders of Sri Lanka. Ananda has been a key role in protecting the culture, traditions and unity of mother Sri Lanka. Ananda College has been the enlighter of many national heros of the country. From the battle for Independence till re-unification of Sri Lanka in year 2009, Anandians has played an invaluable role. Ananda will continue to be the library of knowledge as well as the Commander of guidance of Sriest Lanka.
\r\n\r\nAdvanced Level Section of the institution is also equipped with three Chemistry Laboratories with 477square metres,three Physics Laboratories with 442square metres,two Bio-Science Laboratories with 408 square metres and one Agriculture Laboratory with 300 square metres.
\r\n\r\nWith the dawn of 19th century on our shores, Lanka had gone through many vicissitudes of fortune ranging from the peak of prominence to the depths of deprivation. Though the early part of the this century could be considered the culmination in the process of dilapidation, of our island culture nourished throughout the ages by Buddhism and Hinduism, under foreign dominion dividing native communities. The latter half of the century however saw the residues of national consciousness beginning to arise. This in turn stirred a keen awareness of the customs and modes of life characteristic of our people. It was against this backdrop that a humble, unassuming school was founded that would rise by strides to become a true Sri Lankan institution.
\r\n\r\nOriginally established in 1886 as the Buddhist English School at Maliban Street, Pettah it was later moved to its present environs at Paranavadiya, Maradana in 1895. Being named Ananda as a mark of respect to Arahat Ananda Thero, the closest disciple of Lord Buddha and the Treasurer of his sublime Dhamma,the doctrine, Ananda College was the first school to be established by Sri Lankans and Buddhist organizations,albeit under the guidance of Col. Henry Steel Olcott. It is important to remember the social and educational environment that prevailed in Sri Lanka at that time when Ananda College was established 125 years ago. There were no recognized Buddhist educational institutions in the island and more significantly there was no place to inculcate the Sri Lankan values and mores among the native population. It is with the advent of the age of Commerce and industry in Sri Lanka that the College was established with the schooling system based on the British model and a level of high relevancy was accorded to these subjects. Ananda , by her Centenary had become a National educational institution as from the day of her inception, was committed to the protection ,nourishment and indoctrination of Sri Lankan values of Buddhism.
\r\n\r\nBeing established for the sole purpose of giving self-respect and equal opportunities to Buddhist children, was not in the opinion that the gates of Ananda were closed to Sri Lankan communities of different faiths and ethnicities. On the contrary the College has embraced students from all communities of our island for one of the main objectives of Ananda College is to instill patriotic and spiritual values among her students and to think above ethnic and political affiliations for the prosperity of the mother land.
\r\n\r\n.Ananda College stands today, as a foremost educational academy in Sri Lanka due to the untiring efforts of her past and present principals, teachers and students. The past teachers of Ananda distinguished themselves as men and women of a very high professional efficiency and were admired for their exemplary behavior as members of a noble profession which contributed immensely to the exalted position that Mother Ananda appears today. Under the guidance of renowned educationalists and national teachers.
\r\n\r\nBecoming the first college to win the Herman Loose Challenge Cup for All Round Efficiency and the first Governor General’s Cup was the commencement of the existing high level relationship between Ananda and the Armed Forces of Sri Lanka. This can be ascertained for the reason that there are more Anandians in the Sri Lankan Army and Navy than from any other college in the country. This special intimate bond between the Sri Lankan Military and Anandians can be further witnessed by their exceptional sacrifices in the ending of the Separatist Terrorist War in 2009. They are today considered national heroes, a distinction which they whole heartedly deserve, who have come forward to defend the sovereignty and terrorism integrity for the island republic. This is further justified that Ananda has indubitably contributed towards national causes since her inception from the independence Movement in the latter part of the 19th century to the exclusion of terrorism from the shores of Sri Lanka.
\r\n\r\nAs mentioned earlier, Ananda College was relocated to Maradana in 1895 from No. 34, Maliban Street, Pettah under the leadership of Mr. A.E. Bultjens. The necessary land was provided by Mudliyar Tudor Rajapakshe. Having established the first building, the physical presence of Ananda expanded through the course of history coming to encompass 15 acres. Ananda College was upgraded from an Elementary school to a Secondary school under the tutelage of Mr. Fritz Kunz. In recognition of his services and disciplinary personality, the Fritz Kunz Challenge Cup is awarded to the Most Outstanding Anandian at the Annual Prize Giving ceremony that stands the most prestigious award ever obtainable by an Anandian.
\r\n\r\nDuring the tenure of Mr. P.De S. Kularatne, Ananda COlelge was registered as a Collegiate School with a separate Primary School, thereby allowing students to sit for the London Intermediate, Pre Medical and University Entrance examinations. Teaching in the Mother Tongue of a student in the Primary section was introduced by him long before it was introduced by the Department of Education. The College Hostel was completed during the term of Dr. G.P. Malalasekara while the Buddha Jayanthi Building and the Leadbeater Memorial Building were completed under Mr. L.H. Mettananda. Anandaa Colelge became a State Institution under Mr. S.A. Wijetillake who completed the Olcott Memorial Building which houses the Olcott Library, the Ananda Museum the Main Staff room the Buddhist Society room and the School Development Society office.
\r\n\r\nScience, Commerce and Arts departments were set up at Ananda under Col. G.W. Rajapakshe, More significantly, the Kularatne Hall was constructed in honour of Mr.P.de S. Kularatne and also Col. Rajapakshe fulfilled the inadequacy of a playground by procuring a playing field of 85 acres with Gymnasium built adjacently. To face the population explosion experienced during the time successfully, Col. Rajapakshe oversaw the construction of the Five Storied Lecture Theatre and the Five Storied Multi-purpose Hall renamed the M.U. Moore Building and the D.B. Jayathillake respectively.
\r\n\r\nThe iconic Ananda Vihara, the inspirational and stirring landmark of Ananda College is undoubtedly the most easily distinguishable building of the college. The foundation stone for the Vihara mandiraya was laid during the tenure of Mr. L. H. mettananda and completed under Col. E.A. Perusinghe. A magnificent edifice constructed to cater to the spiritual needs of the students. The Vihara Mandiraya has become indispensably and irrevocably intertwined with the identity of Ananda College. Venerated by students, teachers and the administration and all who visit the College premises, the Ananda Vihara Mandiraya by such virtue has become the Third Most venerated Buddhist shrine in the world.
\r\n\r\nConsequently, as Anada College celebrated her 125th anniversary recently, it has risen and effectively faced a multitude of challenges developing into the premier Buddhist educational institution in Sri Lanka with an enrollment exceeding 6,000 students and 250 members of the Tutorial Staff. Accomplishing remarkable achievements in the fields of intellectual and co-curricular activities, Sports and other branches of educational development, Anandians have contributed prominently to the nation generating respected, educators, politicians, administrators, economists, diplomats, artistes, doctors, engineers, accountants, cricketers, IT professionals and military officers and personnel. Furthermore, the Col. G.W. Rajapakshe Ground complex along with the L.H. Mettananda Memorial Hostel received a long awaited facelift bringing about a fresh atmosphere to the College premises. Mother Ananda may be highly contented with the achievements her sons have gained on her behalf and with the structural renaissance witnessed within her precincts, Towering atop in the national scene, achieving in no small measure the aims of its founders, Mother Ananda now eagerly anticipates the achievements, contributions and noble activities that her sons of the present generation shall deliver on her behalf of the betterment of the college and Mother Lanka.
\r\n','2013-11-11 12:42:11','dbo'),('buddhistera','Colonial rulers, Christian Missionaries and their local converters were conspiring to suppress Buddhism in Sri Lanka and to curb the aspirations of Sinhala Buddhists. Christian schools educated the youth in their own style. Education of Sinhala Buddhists was available in the temple and Sinhala schools. Such schools provided limited education in limited subjects up to a limited standard in Sinhala medium.
\r\n\r\nThe Christian children had been for a considerable time receiving education in the English medium in English schools. These Children were at an advantage in obtaining employment in the Public Sector as well as in the Private Sector. It was a time when the people in Colombo and its environs felt ashamed to call themselves Buddhists. One had to be educated in English to get a good job. One had to be able to speak English to be recognized as somebody.
\r\n\r\nUnfortunately for Sinhala Buddhists there were no English medium schools to attend since such schools were managed by Missionaries. The Buddhist parents were afraid to send them to such schools lest their children be converted. Even the children who were admitted found themselves strangers in a strange environment.
\r\n\r\nIt was during such a time in 1886 that the first Buddhist school names Ananda Vidyalaya was incepted in Pettah. Colonel Henry Steel Olcott with a few Sinhala Buddhist supporters were responsible for founding Ananda Vidyalaya. Only a few boys attended the school then. But the numbers began to increase rapidly. Buddhist parents in and around Colombo began to send their children to Ananda. Later the school came to be called Ananda College.
\r\n\r\nAnanda College was fortunate from her inception in having Principals like C. W. Leadbeater, A. E. Bultjens and D. B. Jayathilake and dedicated teachers. This good fortune continued for a very long time. The College was managed by the Buddhist Theosophical Society. The managers too happened to be erudite noble men.
\r\n\r\nOf course, Ananda had to complete with long established Mission schools in Colombo and the College Authorities encountered with innumerable problems. Moreover, Anandians on leaving school were discriminated against in every sphere of academic, social and sports activities. Anandians were not welcome in employment circles. Like all pioneers in all ventures Anandians had to suffer in venturing into the field of English education. Like pioneers they faced outside forces of arrogance, segregations and humiliation. But they possessed one supreme virtue and that the moral strength and mental framework derived through Buddhist Education.
\r\n\r\nPupils of Ananda were given an education in a new atmosphere with a religious and moral foundation to develop their young minds to face the problems of life with tolerance and equanimity. They were imbued with moral values and religious observances. Panche Seela was administered at the morning assembly. At the end of the day’s work the boys sang verses in praise of the Buddha at the assembly or in the class rooms.
\r\n\r\nAfter shifting to the new premises at Maradana, Ananda began to develop quickly. Funds were raised from Buddhist Public. New buildings were erected. Staff was increased by employing new teachers. Lost time had to be made up everyone worked with a purpose.
\r\n\r\nThe curriculum included all the standard subjects taught at other English Schools. In addition Buddhism and Sinhala literature were taught with special attention. These included Subhasitaya, Lowedasangarava, Guttila Kavyaya, Jataka stories, the life of the Buddha and essentials of Buddhism couched in the vers “Sabba papassa akaranam kusalassa upasampada: schitta pariyodapanam etam Buddhanu Sasanam” . As the boys advanced they were thought the truth of the lines “Labho alabho ayaso yaso ca- ninda pasamsa sukham ca dukkham”. Besides these teachings of Lord Buddha the boys were inspired with the conviction that Dhamma the doctrine protects those who live in accordance with the Dhamma (“Dhammo have rakkhati Dhamma chari”).
\r\n\r\nThe boys were also encouraged to participate in all sports activities popular at the time. These included cricket, boxing, athletics and football. Competition was needed for improvement. Practice alone was insufficient. The Christian Schools even showed a reluctance to provide such opportunities. Even the State Schools acted likewise. However, with the limited facilities available the boys entered the arena of sports and competed successfully in due course.
\r\n\r\nIn this regards too, credit must go to the teachers who worked not as mere paid workers but as devoted volunteers dedicated to instill in the minds of their wards the heights virtues of healthy competition. The boys carried this message of playing the game both at work and play. In spite of the biased attitudes of certain envious authorities the boys remained loyal to their School and true to their faith. So disciplined were the Anandians and true to themselves that they conducted themselves honorably and wisely as citizens of Mother Lanka.
\r\n\r\nVery soon Ananda appealed to Sinhala Buddhist parents especially from the south. Other Buddhist English Schools were started by the Buddhist Theosophical Society throughout the Island. These institutions followed Ananda as their model. Time being Ananda was growing fast. The Principal in collaboration with the teachers sent out to the world a band of disciplined youth distinguished not as copies of the Occident but as models of the Orient.
\r\n\r\nBy early twentieth century many Sinhala Buddhist boys educated at Ananda began to compete with others for employment under Government and Private Organizations. The majority returned to their respective rural areas to be self-employed as planters or businessmen.
\r\n\r\n1918 saw the development of Ananda being accelerated. There came to Ananda a distinguished Sinhala Buddhist Graduate who acted as a catalyst that helped to change Ananda into something new and strange. He was none other than P. de S. Kularatne, a young man just returned from England. Mr. Kularatne took charge of studies and sports. He persuaded some of the experienced teachers from outside to join the staff. Science and arts subjects were equally well taught. Some of the brightest boys were attracted to Ananda due to the excellent staff. Scholarships were awarded to bright students as well as poor boys. Sinhala Buddhist parents were encouraged to send their children to Ananda.
\r\n\r\nAnandians of the first generation had no school ties to “pull”, no heads of departments to support them, no good Samaritans to intervene, no mediators to plead for them and no politicians to present their grievances. They had to seek and find for themselves. If they failed they had to grin and bear. But they had been taught to be self-reliant “attahi attano natho” and to be their own matters. Moreover, they had been disciplined to be satisfied with what they received and to endeavor for greater success without delay “appamadena sampadetha”.
\r\n\r\nBy now Ananda had attained full maturity and its achievements far surpassed those of older English Schools. During this period of excellence Ananda secured first place at the Cambridge Senior Examination, had own senior appointments, scholarships and also excelled in Athletics, Cadetting and Cricket. There was Ananda, a premier Buddhist College, where Sinhala youths blossomed and thereafter the youths of Ananda continued to blossom and still blossom and still blossom today.
\r\n\r\nNow the time has come for all Anandians, both past and present and all Sinhala Buddhists to feel proud of Ananda and salute Ananda College on reaching the much coveted century in years.
\r\n\r\nReligion and education always go hand in hand. Since the ancient times, temple was the center of the society in Sri Lanka. Buddhism and Buddhist education were intermingled to build up a better society in our country and history gives authentication to this. Consequently, a human society with virtuous qualities came into be in this country.
\r\n\r\nDue to numerous foreign invasions, Buddhist education inclined to deteriorate dramatically for centuries. People were forced to embrace other religions. When it is 19th century, people were tempted to obtain Portuguese and Dutch names instead of their native names. Sinhalese as a nation were condemned by the foreign rulers and their administrators. Many a heroes stood against this and sacrificed their lives for the sake of their motherland.
\r\n\r\nWhen it is the middle of the 19th century certain patriotic noble personalities were making a mammoth attempt to revive Buddhist education in our motherland. Among them two erudite sages namely the Most Ven: Hikkaduwwe Sri Sumangala Thero and Migettuwatte Sri Gunananda Thero initiated the venture of saving the noble doctrine of Lord Buddha and Buddhist education. As a result of great debates viz “Panadurawadaya” held from 26 to 28th August in 1873, there was an immense progress in Buddhist education and culture. Consequently, Panadurawadaya, the series of debates on Buddhism against mythologies prevailed in the contemporary society, had publicity internationally. Having heard about the great debates, Col. Henry Steel Olcott, a theosophist from America landed the Sri Lankan shores with the intension of seeking the real philosophy and the truth of Buddhism, with the accompaniment of Madam Helena Blavatsky. They assisted the society for the revival of Buddhist education in Sri Lanka and pioneered in establishing Buddhist educational institutions in the island in which only two Buddhist institutions were available whereas 744 missionary schools subsisted. Col. Henry Steel Olcott along with patriotic Buddhist priests initiated “Sinhala Buddhist Fund” in order to rehabilitate Buddhist education in Sri Lanka.
\r\n\r\nIt was 23rd of October 1886, when Buddhist Theosophical Society discussed and arrived at a conclusion of establishing a Buddhist English School in Sri Lanka, as a result of the decision made, the first Buddhist English Educational Institution was established in the hall of the Buddhist Theosophical Society at No.54, Maliban Street,Pettha in November 1886.
\r\n\r\nMr. C. W. Leadbeater was privileged to be the first Principal of Ananda College with 37 students in 1886. Later in 1888 the number became 160 and the premises were moved to Maradana in 1885 to be Ananda College at present.
\r\n\r\nThe land plot that Ananda College was established is a blessed land on which several historical events had taken place. It was the premises of Ananda that set a blessed location for the main organizing hub of the struggle for independence in the first half of the 20th century. Most of the religious issues were discussed in this consecrated ground. It is a honor to state that Buddhist flag designed under the guidance of the Most Ven. Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Thero and Col. Henry Steel Olcott. This is a historical premises where globally renowned personalities namely Srimath Anagarika Dharmapala, Walisinghe Harischandra, Mahathma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, the founder of the educational system based of aesthetic education.
\r\n\r\nAnanda College was pioneered by world renowned personalities as Principals. M. U. Moore, as a principal had a philosophical aspect of directing children to adapt their life through Buddhist philosophy and insight.
\r\n\r\nAnanda College Colombo, fondly called Mother Ananda has been serving the nation unceasingly for 126 years nurturing and inculcating scholars to be numerous professionals in different strata of life bringing glory to their alma mater.
\r\n\r\nEnvironment of Ananda is serene and tranquil. Anandians are fortified with the Moto of Ananda “Appa Mado Amatha Padam: that means “Diligence leads to perfection”.
\r\n\r\nAnanda College incepted as a result of Buddhist Renaissance taken place in the 19th century stands still as a light house to the nation nurturing countless erudite scholars, professionals, patriotic heroes and well-disciplined citizens who serve for the name of the Motherland Sri Lanka.
\r\n\r\nObjective - To serve the Mother Ananda, the premier Buddhist School in the country to have unique identity
\r\n\r\nRecent Victories and National and International Achievements(for past three years):
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Mrs. S.D.K. Dharmaratne
\r\n\r\nTo be the best radio club ever goes upon the boundaries while providing well developed media personalities to the nation who got the knowledge and skills in the all sections of mass media such as controlling, balancing, mixing and announcing skills through the real experiences.
\r\n\r\nOur aim is to stamp out all the sound requirements inside the school while exposing young anandians to get the experience of mass media through our transmissions. While moving on with the state of art technology, we always provide our technical assistance for other schools.
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Mr. K.U. Rathnapala
\r\n\r\nThe history of Saukyadana runs back for 5 decades. On the “Median Poya” day of March, 1959 a young physician Dr. Vajiranath Lakshman De Silva and his group climbed Adam's peak (Sri Pada) across Ratnapura trail. The young driving force of their hectic journey was their strong will power. They saw elders suffering from hunger, fever and illnesses, along the way and they were kind enough to offer the medicine they carried with them to the aid of them. Based on this incident a volunteer organization named Saukyadana was formed under the guidance of Dr. Vajiranath Lakshman De Silva.
\r\n\r\nSo to carry on this noble service the Saukyadana Unit of Ananda College was formed in 1966. It is still a leading unit which functions hard in hard with every school event.The reason for this special attention towards the Saukyadana unit is that it functions throughout the school on a daily basis. The Saukyadana unit even provides First-Aid care to students during the assembling hours. It is a unit which maintains the pride of Mother Ananda through hard work and dedication within the school and even outside.
\r\n\r\nProjects Launched: Organized a car wash, Organized a competition “Best first-aid unit of the year”
\r\n\r\nCommittee Members - Vice Secretary-Naveen Dahanayake, Vice Treasurer-Madura Wijeratne, Ashen Samarakoon, Dinidu Kodikara, Chaminda Lokunarangoda,Kumuthu Siriniwansa
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Mr. Arosh Jayasinghe
\r\n\r\nRecent Victories and National and International Achievements(for past three years)
\r\n\r\n- Was the only band to welcome His Royal Highness Prince Charles in 1998 when he visited Sri Lanka for the 50th Independence Day Celebration
\r\n\r\n- Became the first and the only non cadet band to win the brass band championship Trphy twice in 1997 and 1999
\r\n\r\n- Won the Brass Band Competition organized by the Navy Band of Sri Lanka in 2003.
\r\n\r\nAsst. Leader - Sachintha Wickramasinghe
\r\n\r\nAsst. Leader - Yoshitha premarathne
\r\n\r\nSuper Seniors - Devin Udesh,Bihan Cabral,Primira Saranga,Shamal Ranasinghe,Thisara Dharshana,Lahiru Perera
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Mr. K.M Rathnapala
\r\n\r\nObjective - To find out the innovative students and let them to introduce their inventions to the world and make good innovative minds
\r\n\r\nProjects Launched - All Island new inventions competition and exhibition “AVRORA13
\r\n\r\nSecretary - D.R. Wanniararchchi
\r\n\r\nTreasurer - P.T. Jayathilake
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge: Mr. C. Athukorala
\r\n\r\nObjective - To highlight Anandians with excellent communication skills and mold them to be talented media personals and there by contribute to the nation.
\r\n\r\n - Mr. Dhammika Perera
\r\n\r\nObjective - To understand the design of an automobile and learn automobile repair
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Mr. K.A. P. Seneviratne
\r\n\r\nSecretary - W.P. Ireshan Madhumadawa
\r\n\r\nObjective - To provide carrier guidance to the college students.
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Ms. Champika Kariyawasam
\r\n\r\nObjective - To educate students to identify historical national heritage of the counrty
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Mr. A.N. Ranasinghe
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Ms. Thamara Damayanthi
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Mr K.M. Ratnapala
\r\n\r\nObjective - Increase the popularity of Chemistry subject among the students and direct the attention of students for Chemistry practical.
\r\n\r\nTeacher In Charge - Ms. H. R. P. Sigera / Ms. R. R. Rajapaksha
\r\n\r\nTeacher In Charge - Ms. Isha Liyanage / Ms. Ramya Samaradivakara
\r\n\r\nObjective - Develop English language and acting skills with the help of English drama and ignite leadership and organizing skills among students.
\r\n\r\nTeacher In Charge - Mr. R. R. Rohana / Ms. R. P. Samaradivakara
\r\n\r\nPresident - K. G. Batawala
\r\n\r\nObjective - Develop all skills related to English language for students to face future challenges.
\r\n\r\nTeacher In Charge - Mr. R. R. Rohana / Mr. R. Ellawala / Ms. Swarna Gajanayaka / Ms. Shyamali Perera / Ms. Kokila Dharmarathne
\r\n\r\nObjective - Develop the knowledge on Physical Science.
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Ms Mallika Kariyawasam / Mr. M.W.S. Ruwangana
\r\n\r\nObjective - To uphold college’s good name whilst commuting. To ensure to look after one’s own safety whilst commuting and to travel to and from home to school on time.
\r\n\r\nTasks accomplished and victories in the 2011.
\r\n\r\n i. 180 Nittambuwa Route. ii. 190 Meegoda Route
\r\n\r\n iii. 190 Meepe Route iv. 226 Dekatana Route
\r\n\r\nSecretary - H.H.P.Y. Manchanayake
\r\n\r\nObjective - To develope oratory skills among college students and external students
\r\n\r\nTasks accomplished and victories in the 2011.
\r\n\r\nObjectives - Develop Sinhala Language proficiency among students.
\r\n\r\nAchievements in 2011 - Representing the club, around 20 students won the divisional level and represented in district level competitions.
\r\n\r\nTeacher In Charge - Ms. Yavani Jayawardhane
\r\n\r\nTreasurer - Ms. Padma Weerasinghe
\r\n\r\nObjective - Motivating students to raise and develop their creative skills on literature on intra and inter school level and develop their literary taste.
\r\n\r\nTeacher In Charge - Ms. D. Manel / Ms. D. A. D. Neela
\r\n\r\nPresident - R. A. Nuwan Madhushanka
\r\n\r\nObjective - Control vehicle traffic inside the school and near the school to for the convenience of the students and safeguard them.
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Mr L.H. Anura Prasad
\r\n\r\nObjective - To impart practical knowledge about commerce subjects.
\r\n\r\nVictories achieved in the 2011.
\r\n\r\nObjective - To impart practical knowledge about political science.
\r\n\r\nTasks accomplished in the 2011.
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge - Ms. H.A.N. Renukanthi
\r\n\r\nObjective - To improve student’s savings within the college, and make awareness of functioning of a bank to students.
\r\n\r\nTasks accomplished and victories in the 2011.
\r\n\r\nTeacher in Charge : Ms. Asha Perera
\r\n\r\nTasks accomplished and victories in the 2011.
\r\n\r\nTasks accomplished and victories in the 2011.
\r\n\r\nThere are many reasons for not being 1946 another year for the history of Mother Ananda. It is the year we became one of the most prominent and earliest found societies in the school as “Photographic and Film Society”.
\r\n\r\nFrom that memorial day onwards with experience of 67 successful years Ananda College Photographic Art Society rendered an immense service to mother Ananda and gifted many talented personalities who play leading roles in this field. Among them, Mr.D.B.Nihalsinghe , Mr.Daya Thilak Godamanna as well as internationally recognized photographer for Reuters Mr.Anuradha Lokuhapuarachchi are some of these proud products of our society.
\r\n\r\nIn the year 2007 the ACPAS along with The National Photographic Art Society, Image Art Society and the Image Art Faculty of University of Kelaniya, was able to re-establish the Colombo schools Photographic Federation which was undergoing a long time after 1990s.
\r\n\r\nThe founding President and Secretary of the federation were Akila Darshana Panditha (President of ACPAS – 2007) and Rusiru Siriwardana (Secretary of ACPAS – 2007) who were leading personalities in re-establishing the federation.
\r\n\r\n2001- Ananda seya – Interschool photographic competition and exhibition.
\r\n\r\n2001 – Pilibimbu ’01 – Photographic Magazine.
\r\n\r\n2004 – Pehesaraniya – Inner school and Interschool photographic exhibition and competition.
\r\n\r\n2004 – Thewana Esin Lowa Dakimu 1 – Workshop conducted only for Anandians.
\r\n\r\n2006 – Pilibimbu ’06 – Inner school and inter school photographic competition and exhibition.
\r\n\r\n2006 – Thewana Esin Lowa Dakimu 2 – Interschool Workshop.
\r\n\r\n2007 – Pilibimbu ’07 – Interschool work shop, inner school and inter school photographic exhibition and competition.
\r\n\r\n2008 – Pilibimbu ’08 – Photographic Magazine competition and exhibition (inner school and inter school). A documentary about photography and printing.
\r\n\r\n2008 – Thewana Esin Lowa Dakimu 3 – Inter school workshop series.
\r\n\r\n2010 – Pilibimbu ’10 – Photographic Magazine, Inter school and inner school photographic competition and exhibition.
\r\n\r\n2010 – Thewana Esin Lowa Dakimu 4 – Workshop series.
\r\n\r\n2012 – Ananda 125 – Photographic exhibition.
\r\n\r\n2012 – Thewana Esin Lowa DAkimu 5 – Workshop.
\r\n\r\nPresidents From year 2004.
\r\n\r\n2004-2005 Rakitha Wijenayaka.
\r\n\r\n2005-2007 Banu Mapalagama.
\r\n\r\n2009-2010 Sameera Aloka Bandara.
\r\n\r\n2010-2011 Anuja Perera.
\r\n\r\n2011-2012 Keshan Chanaka.
\r\n\r\n2012-2013 Shakya Gurudasa.
\r\n\r\n"දින දින කිතු ගොස බෝ වි වැජඹෙනු අනදප මාතා" is the most common song in every Anandian's heart beacause its the mother ananda's anthem they hear and sing it daily. It has been written by Ananda Samarakoon , a celebrated artist and a Anandian who will never be forgotten by any Anandian.
\r\n\r\nදින දින කිතු ගොස බෝ වි වැජඹෙනු අනදප මාතා//
\r\n\r\n![](\"http://ananda.sch.lk/newsimages/13/pnyf1.jpg\")
'),(14,'2014-04-08','2014-04-07','Academic Excellence at G.C.E (O/L) Examination 2013','Ravin Lasindu Showcases Academic Excellence at G.C.E (O/L) Examination 2013 Glorifying His Alma Mater-Ananda College.','Ravin Lasindu Showcases Academic Excellence at G.C.E (O/L) Examination 2013 Glorifying His Alma Mater-Ananda College.\r\nM.Ravin Lasindu Thennakoon reflected his outstanding academic excellence at G.C.E (O/L) Examination 2013 being ranked 3rd in the Island. Residing at Walawwatta Road, Delkanda, Nugegoda, Ravindu enthusiastically performed his academic work in Grade 11-1 offering Tamil, Appreciation of Sinhala Literary Texts and ICT in English Medium apart from the Main subjects of the syllabus.\r\nRavin born on 24th March 1997 to his beloved parents,Mr. Sunil Thennakoon ,delighted father and Mrs.Mangalika Thennakoon, enthusiastic mother made his admission to Ananda College, the premier Buddhist Institution in Sri Lanka as a Scholarship Holder in Grade Six in 2008.\r\nMaster Ravin Lasindu conveys a message to the next generation of fellow Anandians to determine to display their academic excellence being a very balanced character and having devoted to studies working under a time plan to achieve the expected goal. Ravin adheres that the notion of completion of daily academic activities on the very day itself will certainly be successful in achieving the excellence in every aspect.\r\nMother Ananda extends her Blessings consecrated by the Noble Doctrine of Lord Buddha!\r\n'),(15,'2014-04-23','2014-04-23','Anande Ape Avuruddha 2014','Ananda solemnizes Sinhala New Year Anande Ape Avuruddha 2014','\r\nAnande Ape Avuruddha the new year programme of the Secondary Section (Grade 6 to 13) of the College is scheduled to be held on 23rd April 2014 from 8.15am onwards in traditional manner retaining the long preserved heritage of Sinhalese on the College premises with the graceful participation of the respected Chief Guest Mr. Kithsiri Liyanagamage the Principal of Ananda College.\r\nAmong the cultural events, Traditional Games, Folk Songs, Dances will beautify the occasion. Furthermore, you will be exposed to Art Competitions, tug of war competition, running events, Fancy Dress Parade (for Grade 6-8) and \"Ananda New Year Prince and Princess\" Contest in which students can take part.\r\nThe event is exclusively organized by the 97 Group of the Old Boys Association of the College along with the special contribution made by Ranwala Foundation.\r\nCome and feel the pulse of Sinhala culture and tradition in an authentic way.\r\n'),(16,'2014-04-26','2014-05-27','Sivagurunathan Trophy - 2014','3rd Cricket Encounter between Ananda College and Jaffna Hindu College','3rd Cricket Encounter\r\n Encounter between Ananda College and Jaffna Hindu College\r\nAnanda College demolished Jaffna Hindu College by an innings and 126 runs in their annual cricket encounter between the two schools played for the Sivagurunathan Trophy which was played at Ananda Mawatha on 25th and 26th of April.\r\n'),(17,'2014-05-06','2014-05-05','Viwarana 2014','\'Viwarana\' 2014 The Annual Art Exhibition of Ananda College ','\'Viwarana\' 2014 The Annual Art Exhibition of Ananda College Organized By The Siththaraneni Art Forum was held at the J.D.A.Perera Gallery '),(18,'2014-05-13','2014-05-13','President visit Ananda College conducting Sil Campaigns','The President visited Ananda College and interacted with the students who were participating in the Sil campaign and meditation programs. ','Sil campaigns were organized in Ananda College in view of Vesak Week. The President visited Ananda College and interacted with the students who were participating in the Sil campaign and meditation programs. The President was joined by Minister Bandula Gunawardena.'),(19,'2014-06-02','2014-06-06','Dhamma Sermon by Most Ven. Rajagiriye Ariyaghana Thero','Dhamma Sermon by Most Ven. Rajagiriye Ariyaghana Thero,\r\n\"Maha Rahathun Wadi Maga Osse\" ,\r\nwill be on Friday, 6 Friday 2014 from 8.30 AM at Ananda College','Dhamma Sermon by Most Ven. Rajagiriye Ariyaghana Thero,\r\n\"Maha Rahathun Wedi Maga Osse\" ,\r\nwill be on Friday, 6 Friday 2014 from 8.30 AM at Ananda College\r\n![](\"http://ananda.sch.lk/newsimages/19/VenAriyaghanaThero.jpg\")
\r\n\r\n'),(20,'2014-05-30','2014-06-02','Colors Nite \'13 the Glamorous Event ','Colors Nite \'13 the annual felicitation and awarding ceremony of young sportsmen at Ananda College was concluded in prestigious scale on 30th May 2014 at Kularathne Auditorium','Colors Nite \'13 the glamorous event in the field of sports to glorify young outstanding sportsmen at Ananda College \r\nColors Nite \'13 the annual felicitation and awarding ceremony of young sportsmen at Ananda College was concluded in prestigious scale on 30th May 2014 at Kularathne Auditorium, Ananda College with the graceful participation of the Distinguished Chief Guest Major General Jagath Dias one of the remarkable patriotic old Anandians and the Hon Gest of Honour, respected Mr.Anuruddha Polonnowita a veteran Cricket personality and a reputable old Anandian with formal accompaniment of the Principal of Ananda College along with the Sports Council, tutorial Staff, and the people concerned.\r\nMaster Cherantha de Silva was bestowed with the most prestigious award of the occasion the Award of the Most Outstanding Sportsman of the 2013 with the salute of the distinguished gathering.\r\nColors Nite \'13 was conclude successfully followed by magnetizing fire works.\r\n'),(21,'2014-07-15','2014-07-14','Pulz\'14-The national school ICT event \r\n','Since its inception in 1988 as the \'Computer Society of Ananda College\', the ICT Society of Ananda College has rendered an invaluable service to the school as well as to the whole country by producing and being a safe haven for many giants in the field of modern ICT. Although the Computer Society of Ananda College suffered minor setbacks in its early stages by the advent of the 21st century it was reborn as the Ananda College ICT Society ( ACICTS ) and found its way back to the throne among the ICT Societies of the island.','Since its inception in 1988 as the \'Computer Society of Ananda College\', the ICT Society of Ananda College has rendered an invaluable service to the school as well as to the whole country by producing and being a safe haven for many giants in the field of modern ICT. Although the Computer Society of Ananda College suffered minor setbacks in its early stages by the advent of the 21st century it was reborn as the Ananda College ICT Society ( ACICTS ) and found its way back to the throne among the ICT Societies of the island.\r\nBreaking the standards of the last year, setting new standards in a whole new level around the country and re-crowning as the emperor of school based ICT Societies, The ICT Society of Ananda College proudly organized the most anticipated school based ICT event in Sri Lanka, \'PULZ 2014\' which was concluded successfully on the 14th of July at the Hotel Galadari, Colombo in a colossal magnitude with the participation of Mr.Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Cabinet Minister of Telecommunication Information Technology as the chief guest. \r\nPULZ has grown to be the pioneering ICT event in Sri Lanka, raising the bar of the school based ICT arena, invigorating other schools too to participate and enhance the development of ICT within the nation. This year, equipped with the ground breaking technologies of modern ICT, PULZ \'14 became an event of the likes never seen before in Sri Lanka with the participation of 150 schools all around Sri Lanka. \r\nThe well wishes of everyone proved how successful the event was.\r\nPulz \'14\r\n'),(22,'2014-10-29','2014-10-28',' Kiddies Fair ','\'Kiddies Fair\' was originated by English speakers\' club of Primary Section. Nearly 75 students participated. ','\'Kiddies Fair\' was originated by English speakers\' club of Primary Section. Nearly 75 students participated. They dealt using English language .The principal of Ananda College Mr.Kithsiri Liyanagamage was the chief guest of this event. The guest of honor was Mrs.Shayama Ranasinghe, In-Service advisor, Colombo division. This was graced by deputy principals, Headmistress Mrs.Damayanthi Kodithuwakku, teachers, students and parents. This event was organized by the teacher in charge Dhamikka Ovitigala to enhance student communicative skills through authentic situations.'),(23,'2014-11-21','2014-11-19',' Dengue Prevention Campaign','Under the instruction of the principal Mr. Kithsiri Liyanagamage and deputy principals and members of the Buddhist society, non academic staff of Ananda college launched its first step in the dengue prevention campaign within the school premises on November 22nd 2014.','Under the instruction of the principal Mr. Kithsiri Liyanagamage and deputy principals and members of the Buddhist society, non academic staff of Ananda college launched its first step in the dengue prevention campaign within the school premises on November 22nd 2014.\r\n\r\nNon academic staff was divided into 8 teams of 9 personals. They visited identified mosquito breeding places and took the actions required to control and prevent the spread of Dengue.\r\n'),(24,'2014-12-14','2014-12-04','Asia Pacific Information and Communication Technology Alliance Awards','Pasindu Chathuranga and Charith Wickramasinghe of Ananda College, Colombo clinched the Gold Award turning a new chapter of the historical accounts of the College after six years, at recently concluded Asia Pacific Information and Communication Technology Alliance Awards in Jakarta, Indonesia taking part in School Project category. ','![](\"http://ananda.sch.lk//newsimages/24/IMGPSD.jpg\")
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![\"AL](\"http://www.ananda.sch.lk/contentimages/dsc_0169.jpg\")
![\"AL](\"http://www.ananda.sch.lk/contentimages/dsc_0175.jpg\")
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