Ananda College

On a bustling Colombo street corner, a group of boys eagerly discussed their upcoming cricket match. “We’ll beat Nalanda for sure this year,” one declared, adjusting his maroon cap. Their excitement resonated with a history far richer than they perhaps knew. This is the story of Ananda College. Ananda College stands as a testament to the revival of Buddhist education in Sri Lanka. Established on November 1, 1886, by the Buddhist Theosophical Society, Ananda College began its journey with just 37 students in a modest building on Maliban Street, Pettah. The college’s name, Ananda, honors a chief disciple of Gautama Buddha, reflecting its commitment to Buddhist principles. The school’s early years were marked by several relocations, driven by growth and even controversy due to its proximity to a Catholic school. Finally, a generous land donation in Maradana provided a permanent home. On August 17, 1895, the school was officially renamed Ananda College Colombo at its current location. Ananda College’s influence extends beyond academics. The Ananda College Old Boys Association (ACOBA), founded in 1908, plays a vital role in supporting the school. The ACOBA has spearheaded numerous projects, from constructing buildings and a swimming pool to providing scholarships for needy students. Ananda College also boasts a rich history of notable visitors and lecturers. Rabindranath Tagore, Asia’s first Nobel laureate, graced the college in 1922, praising its humility. Even Mahatma Gandhi visited in 1927. Ananda College continues to flourish, with thousands of students and a dedicated staff. It stands as a symbol of perseverance, a beacon of Buddhist values, and a cornerstone of Sri Lankan education.