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Mahanama College
Mahanama College
Mahanama College
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Mahanama College is a Buddhist school for boys in Colombo, Sri Lanka, established in 1954. As a public national school, it is controlled by the Sri Lankan government rather than a provincial council. It provides primary and secondary education.

Key Information

Mahanama College is located in Kollupitiya, Colombo, with its main entrance from Richard Aluwihare de Mel Mawatha, Colombo 3. The southern boundary of the campus adjoins Church Missionary Society Ladies' College.[1]

History

[edit]

Mahanama College was founded on 5 January 1954 by Ven. Maawiththara Rewatha Thero at the Walukarama Temple in Kollupitiya, with an initial enrollment of five students.[2] The school relocated to the site at Walukarama after initially operating from nearby locations, with primary classes temporarily held at Thurstan College. In 1956, the school was registered as a government-assisted junior school.

In the mid-1970s, the Sri Lankan government allocated approximately 2.8 ha (6.9 acres) of land to support expansion.[2] By 1976, the campus included several two-storey academic buildings, with facilities such as additional classrooms and a dental unit added during this period.[2]

During the 1990s, the school expanded its extracurricular and inter-school activities. The annual school carnival, Foot-Loose, was introduced,[citation needed] and the Battle of the Golds, the annual cricket match between Mahanama College and D. S. Senanayake College, was initiated in 1999.[3] A three-floor building incorporating an art gallery was also completed in 1999.[citation needed]

In 2014, Mahanama College's 60th anniversary and annual prize-giving was held under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Bandula Gunawardena.[4]

Administration

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As a national school, the college receives funds from the Ministry of Education. The ministry appoints the principal who leads an administration that consists of vice principals and academic staff. The school is divided into three levels of education: primary school, middle school, and upper school, and each section has its own head.[citation needed]

Mahanama College only admits Buddhist students. Sinhala is the language of instruction in the school, though students can choose between Sinhala and English as their language of instruction for higher education.[5] The school's motto is Vidvān Sarvatra Pūjyate, which means the scholar is respected everywhere.[citation needed]

Principals

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  • Ven. Vahalle Dhammananda Thero (1954–1960)
  • J. D. A. Jayakody (1960–1968)
  • N. E. Fernando (1968–1974)
  • T. S. Silva (1974–1976)
  • K. N. P. de Silva (1976–1986)
  • D. G. Sumanasekara (1986–1990)
  • K. K. Ratnadasa (1990–1999)
  • G. Liyanage (1999–2003)
  • W. H. Premalal Kumarasiri (2003–2012)
  • U. M. Prasanna Upashantha (2013–2016)
  • L. M. D. Dharmasena (2016–2020)
  • R. A. R. M. Rathnayake (2020–2021)
  • A. M. A. A. C. Perera (2021–2023)
  • Prabath Withanage (2023–present)

School houses

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Students are divided into four houses, whose names are derived from the Sanskrit language.[6]

House Colour Code Meaning
Mettha
 
 Benevolence, friendliness, amity, friendship, goodwill, kindness.
Karuna
 
 The Buddhist concept of compassion.
Muditha
 
 Joy, or more specifically, sympathetic or vicarious joy; taking pleasure in other people's well-being.
Upekha
 
 The Buddhist concept of equanimity.

Sports

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Eighteen sports are played at Mahanama College.[7]

Cricket

[edit]

Mahanama College established its first U11 cricket team in 1979, with the help of coach Vernon Perera and principal K. N. P. de Silva.[citation needed]

Mahanama College has achieved significant success in school cricket, including being crowned the best team of the Western Province in Division One - Tier "A" for the 2023/24 season,[citation needed] winning the SLSCA Under-13 Division II Cricket Tournament,[citation needed] and reaching the U19 Division 1 Limited Over tournament.[citation needed]

Achievements and milestones

[edit]
  • Champions of Singer U17 Division I Schools Cricket Tournament in 2019.[8][9]
  • Champions in the U13 Division II Schools Cricket Tournament in 2024.[10]
  • Runners up in Sri Lanka U17 Division I Schools Cricket Tournament 2025.[11][12]
  • Champions of Sri Lanka U19 Division 1 Schools Cricket Tournament 2025.[13][14]

Battle of the Golds

[edit]

The Battle of the Golds, which began in 2007, is an annual cricket contest between D. S. Senanayake College and Mahanama College,[citation needed] which attracts large crowds from both schools to the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground.[15] Ahead of the match, the Old Boys' Association of Mahanama College organise the 'Golden Parade', a vehicle parade through the streets of Colombo with decorated Double-decker buses, trucks, cars, SUVs, and motorbikes, accompanied by music and dancing.[16]

Year Result Ref.
2007 Lost N/a
2008 Won N/a
2009 Lost N/a
2010 Won N/a
2011 Lost N/a
2012 Won [17]
2013 Won [18]
2014 N/a N/a
2015 Lost [19]
2016 Won [19]
2017 Won [20]
2018 Won [21]
2019 Won [22]
2020 Postponed due to COVID-19 N/a
2021 N/a
2022 Won [23]
2023 Won N/a
2024 Won N/a
2025 Won [24]

Battle of the Golds Annual T20 Encounter

[edit]

The T20 Encounter of Battle of the Golds is a friendly rivalry T20 cricket match between Mahanama College and D. S. Senanayake College. The First T20 Encounter was held in 2025, organised as a tribute to K. N. P. de Silva, former principal of Mahanama College who played a main role in the development of the school from 1976 to 1986 (10 years),[citation needed] for the K. N. P. de Silva Memorial Trophy.[25][26][27]

Year Result Ref.
2025 Won [27][28]

Rugby

[edit]

Rugby began at Mahanama College in 1986. The school were runners-up in the all-island Division One Tournament in 1994/1995, and again runners-up in the Premier Division 01 – Segment "B" in 2008/2009.[citation needed]

In 2024, the school was crowned champions of the Premier Trophy in 2024, defeating Ananda College, and won the championship title in Division 1 Segment B of the Dialog Schools Rugby League, earning them a spot in the top-tier league for 2025.[citation needed] In the 2025 season, they finished runners-up of The Bowl Segment of Division One Group "A" in the Dialog Schools Rugby League.[29][30] They secured their first victory in the Dialog Schools Rugby League in 2025.[31]

Several alumni of the college have represented the Sri Lanka national rugby union team, including Kapila Knowlton (1994), Mithun Hapugoda and Darshana Dabare (2019).[32][33]

Basketball

[edit]

In the 2019, 2nd semi-final of the Boys' U17 All Island "B" Division Basketball Championship, the team was awarded 3rd place.[34]

The Battle of the Golds basketball encounter takes place every year where Mahanama College compete with D. S. Senanayake College.[35]

Boxing

[edit]

The Boxing Committee was founded on 2014. Mahanamian boxers became the champions of the 43rd L.V. Jayaweera Interschool meet in 2016,[36] where Kasun Fernandoe was also named "best boxer",[37] and again at the 46th L.V. Jayaweera Interschool meet in 2022,[38][39] where the college's boxing coach, Y. M. Anura Yapa, was also awarded best coach.[40]

In 2019, the team achieved a 3rd place overall at the All-Island Junior Boxing Championship, bringing home a gold, silver, and bronze medal.[41]

W.T.L.M. Abeysekera, R.I.R. Perera, K.A.V.S. Karavita, and H.S. Nambuwasam were among the college's winning boxers in the Stubbs Shield Boxing Championship, in the Junior and Youth Boys categories.[when?][42] St. Sylvester's College was the eventual winner, securing their fourth consecutive title. The tournament saw nearly 500 boxers from 132 schools competing.

Athletics

[edit]

The college's athletics program is rooted in its tradition of holistic education, which assigns equal importance to physical fitness as to intellectual development.[43][44]

Athletes from Mahanama College won merit certificate awards in four age groups (under 12, 13, 14, and 15) at the John Tarbet Junior Athletic Meet held in October 2016 at Embilipitiya.[44]

Societies

[edit]

Mahanama College Media Unit

[edit]

The Media Unit of Mahanama College (MCMU) was established in 1987,[45] as one of the first school media units in Sri Lanka. The MCMU runs a YouTube channel with 95 videos and over 7000 subscribers.[46] The MCMU website was awarded in Sri Lanka's BestWeb.lk web design competition in 2020,[47] and has received numerous awards at Zonal, Provincial and National Levels.[48] CHATHURMANA is the college's annual Media Day, organized by the MCMU.[49][50]

Leo Club

[edit]

The Mahanama Leo Club was founded in 1987, operating under Leo District 306 D7.[51] In 2024/2025, the club was named the most outstanding school-based Leo Club in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, as well as in Leo District 306 C2.[citation needed]

Notable alumni

[edit]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Mahanama College

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Mahanama College is a prominent national boys' school in , , specializing in Sinhala-medium education with a strong emphasis on Buddhist principles and values. Established in 1954, it operates as a public institution controlled by the central government through the Ministry of Education, serving students exclusively from Sinhala Buddhist backgrounds in grades 1 through 13. Located at R. A. De Mel Mawatha in the bustling 03 district, the school has developed a reputation for fostering discipline, academic rigor, and holistic development among its pupils. It categorizes as a Type 1AB national school, enabling access to advanced learning streams in both Sinhala and English mediums for higher studies preparation. The institution is particularly renowned for its robust extracurricular programs, especially in , where it has achieved notable success in inter-school competitions. In 2025, Mahanama College's Under-19 team clinched their maiden Division One Tier 'A' limited overs title by defeating Richmond College, marking a historic unbeaten campaign. The school's rugby team has also demonstrated competitive prowess, engaging in high-stakes matches against top rivals like Kingswood College. These accomplishments underscore Mahanama's commitment to building character and teamwork alongside scholarly pursuits.

History

Founding

Mahanama College was established in 1954 by Ven. Vehalle Dhammananda Thero at the Walukarama Temple in , commencing operations with an initial enrollment of five students. The school was founded as a Sinhala Buddhist boys' institution focused on providing , emphasizing Buddhist values and Sinhala-medium instruction in a post-colonial context where such schools were emerging to serve local communities. Early operations were marked by significant challenges, including the use of temporary premises within the temple grounds, which limited space and resources for classes and activities. Despite these constraints, the school experienced rapid initial growth, expanding to 373 students by 1969, supported by a dedicated staff of 14 members. This period laid the foundation for the institution's commitment to academic excellence, symbolized by the adoption of the motto Vidvān Sarvatra Pūjyate, translating to "A scholar is respected everywhere," which underscores the value placed on scholarly achievement and respect.

Expansion and Milestones

In 1974, under the principalship of T. N. Silva, Mahanama College relocated to its current site adjacent to Thurstan College in 3, incorporating the junior section previously housed at Thurstan to accommodate growing enrollment and facilitate expansion. This move marked a significant step in the school's development, transitioning from its initial modest beginnings at the Walukaramaya Temple to a more spacious urban location better suited for . During the mid-1970s, the Sri Lankan government supported further growth by allocating approximately 7 acres (28,000 square meters) of land at the new premises, enabling the construction of additional facilities including multi-story buildings by 1976. This acquisition addressed the school's expanding needs, as student numbers rose notably; for instance, 130 students sat for the National Grade Certificate of Education examination in 1975, with 107 passing, reflecting steady academic progress. Mahanama College achieved national school status in 1985, coming under direct control of the Ministry of Education and gaining enhanced resources for curriculum and infrastructure development. By the 2020s, enrollment had surged to over 4,700 students, underscoring the institution's evolution into a prominent public boys' school in . A key milestone was the celebration of its 60th anniversary in 2014, where President served as chief guest at the annual prize-giving event, awarding distinctions to top-performing students and recognizing dedicated educators.

Campus and Facilities

Location

Mahanama College is located in the electoral division of 03, , with its main entrance along R. A. De Mel Mawatha, a prominent in the city. The precise geographic coordinates of the college are 6°54′22″N 79°51′15″E, placing it in the heart of Colombo's urban core. The surrounding area of forms a key commercial district in , characterized by high population density, upscale shopping malls, international embassies, and a blend of residential and business establishments that reflect the suburb's evolution from colonial-era roots to a modern economic hub. This vibrant urban environment contributes to the college's integration within 's dynamic cityscape, where commercial activity and daily foot traffic are intense. The college benefits from excellent accessibility due to its central position, situated in close proximity to landmarks such as , approximately 1.5 kilometers to the northwest, and the World Trade Center nearby. Major thoroughfares like Duplication Road and Galle Road provide direct connections, while extensive public bus networks, including routes operated by the Transport Board, facilitate easy access from suburbs and other parts of the . This strategic location impacts student commuting patterns, enabling enrollment from diverse regions across and beyond through reliable options and dedicated services that operate along these key routes.

Infrastructure

Mahanama College's campus occupies 7 acres (28,000 square meters) of land donated by the Sri Lankan government to enable the school's growth and development in a central urban conducive to and expansion. The physical comprises several multi-story buildings, including two-story structures erected by 1976 and subsequent three-story additions featuring an , alongside dedicated facilities such as science laboratories, a , and the Mahanama assembly hall. An provides space for large gatherings and events, overlooking the area. Information technology resources, including computer labs and sections, were established under Principal K. K. Rathnadasa's tenure starting in 1990 and further enhanced during G. Liyanage's leadership from 1999, supporting modern educational needs. Sports grounds form an integral part of the , facilitating physical activities and contributing to the overall 28,000 square meter site. These facilities are organized into separate sections for primary, middle, and upper school levels, accommodating over 4,700 students. In 2024, construction began on a new four-story building featuring a library, ordinary project science labs, aesthetic units, a , and a unit, aimed at enhancing the school's facilities. As a national school, Mahanama College's infrastructure maintenance and upgrades, including building renovations and equipment improvements, are primarily funded through allocations from the Ministry of Education.

Administration and Academics

Governance

Mahanama College operates as a government 1AB national school, directly controlled by Sri Lanka's Ministry of Education, which oversees its administration and policy implementation rather than provincial councils. This status positions it among the elite tier of public institutions offering comprehensive primary and , including Advanced Level streams in all major fields. Funding for the college primarily derives from annual budget allocations by the Ministry of Education, encompassing recurrent and capital expenditures through mechanisms like the Education Quality Inputs (EQI) program and School-Based Learning Improvement Grants (SBLIG). These allocations support operational costs, infrastructure maintenance, and quality enhancements, with the EQI scheme specifically aimed at equitable resource distribution to improve learning outcomes. Additionally, the Old Boys' Association (OBA) plays a vital role in supplementary funding, providing donations for extracurricular developments such as sports facilities and scholarships for students. Oversight at the regional level is handled by the Colombo Zonal Education Office under the Western Province Education Department, which monitors compliance with national policies on curriculum, teacher training, and school governance. This structure ensures alignment with the Ministry's directives, including the National Education Policy Framework (2023-2033), while allowing localized administrative support. As of 2025, is Prabath I. Withanage, appointed in 2023 to lead the institution's strategic direction and daily operations.

Educational Programs

Mahanama College provides from grades 1 to 13, structured into primary (grades 1-5), middle (grades 6-9), and upper (grades 10-13) sections, following the standard framework for national schools in . The curriculum adheres to the national educational standards set by the Ministry of Education, covering core subjects such as languages, , , and , with preparation for the GCE Ordinary Level (O/L) examinations at the end of grade 11 and Advanced Level (A/L) examinations in grades 12 and 13. Instruction is primarily in Sinhala as the official medium, with English taught as a throughout the program; students in the upper section may opt for English medium for select subjects or streams. As a dedicated Buddhist institution admitting only Sinhala Buddhist students, the school integrates into the curriculum to foster moral and ethical development alongside academic learning, aligning with its foundational principles established in 1954. The college enrolls approximately 4,700 students across all grades as of 2023, supported by a dedicated staff. Special programs, including education through dedicated computer facilities, are incorporated to enhance practical skills, while extracurricular academic activities such as quizzes and seminars are woven into the daily schedule to complement the core curriculum.

Leadership

Principals

Mahanama College has been guided by a series of dedicated principals since its , with approximately 15 individuals serving in the role over the decades, each contributing to its growth as a leading Buddhist boys' school in . The founder principal, Ven. Vehalle Dhammananda Thero, served from 1954 to 1960, establishing the institution with initial primary classes housed in a building near Thurstan College and laying the groundwork for its Buddhist educational ethos. He was succeeded by J. D. A. Jayakody, who took office on January 1, 1960, at which time the school had grown to 163 students with four staff members; enrollment continued to expand under his , reaching 373 students by 1969. Subsequent principals included N. E. Fernando (1968–1974) and T. S. Silva (1974–1976), during whose tenure in 1974 the junior section relocated from premises near Thurstan College to the school's current location on R. A. De Mel Mawatha, facilitating further expansion and infrastructure development. K. N. P. de Silva served from 1976 to 1986, focusing on overall school development and retiring on February 5, 1986, after enhancing administrative and academic structures. D. G. Sumanasekera assumed the role in and served until , ushering in a "golden era" marked by rapid institutional growth, including strengthened competitiveness in sports and extracurricular activities. He was the first Sri Lanka Educational Administrative Service (SLEAS) Class-1 principal at the college. K. K. Ratnadasa led from 1990 to 1999, overseeing the construction of several three-story buildings and the establishment of a dedicated computer section to modernize curriculum delivery. Later principals included G. Liyanage (1999–2003), W. H. Premalal Kumarasiri (2003–2012), U. M. Prasanna Upashantha (2013–2016), and L. M. D. Dharmasena (2016–2020), who contributed to ongoing academic advancements and facility upgrades during their terms. R. A. R. M. Rathnayake served briefly from 2020 to 2021, followed by A. M. A. A. C. Perera from 2021 to 2023, both navigating the challenges of the while maintaining educational continuity. The current principal, Prabath I. Withanage, appointed in 2023, emphasizes integration of new and progressive reforms to enhance student learning and school infrastructure. In November 2025, the Mahanama College Parents and Old Boys' Collective protested outside the school, demanding his removal and the appointment of a more experienced educator.

Administrative Structure

Mahanama College's administrative structure is headed by the principal, appointed by the Ministry of Education, who oversees the overall operations with support from multiple deputy principals responsible for academic and administrative functions. For instance, deputy principals such as Mrs. M.H.N. Alwis and others are listed in official seniority records, assisting in key areas like planning and school management. The school is divided into three main sections—primary, middle, and upper school—to facilitate age-appropriate and administration, following the structure common to leading Sri Lankan national schools. Each section operates under dedicated leadership to coordinate curriculum delivery and within its grade levels. Academic coordinators and non-teaching staff, including administrative and support personnel, contribute to daily operations, though exact breakdowns vary; the Ministry maintains records for principal and deputy roles as part of broader staff oversight. Internal committees handle specialized areas such as discipline, examinations, and student welfare, ensuring compliance with national educational standards and promoting holistic development. The Old Boys' Association (OBA) integrates into administrative advisory roles by providing input on infrastructure improvements and event organization, often collaborating with school leadership on developmental initiatives.

Student Life

School Houses

Mahanama College employs a house system to organize its students into competitive groups, promoting , teamwork, and participation in various events. The system consists of four houses named Mettha, Karuna, Muditha, and Upekha. These houses engage in inter-house competitions across sports and academics, with students assigned to a house upon entry and remaining affiliated throughout their time at the school. The annual inter-house sports meet serves as a key event, where houses vie for overall championship through events held at the school grounds or venues like . For instance, Upekha House claimed victory in the 2003 sports meet by surpassing Mettha, Karuna, and Muditha. Each house is overseen by a house master from the teaching staff and student leaders such as captains and prefects, who coordinate activities and represent their group in competitions. This structure culminates in annual house championships that award points for performances in sports meets, quizzes, debates, and cultural events, encouraging healthy rivalry and collective achievement.

Daily Routines

The daily routine at Mahanama College, a national boys' school in , , is structured to foster , academic focus, and alignment with Buddhist principles among its approximately 6,500 students. School hours typically run from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., encompassing morning assembly, instructional periods, and short breaks to support a balanced common to Sri Lankan national schools. The day begins with assembly, where students gather for announcements, prayers, and recitations that emphasize Buddhist values such as and ethical conduct, reflecting the institution's founding . Students adhere to a standard consisting of a white shirt paired with for senior grades (or shorts for juniors), complemented by house badges to promote a sense of belonging and identification within the school's competitive . This attire underscores the emphasis on uniformity, , and , with strict enforcement during all school activities to instill pride and order. House assignments are briefly referenced in daily routines through badge displays during assembly and inter-house duties. Weekly routines incorporate religious observances, particularly on Mondays with extended assemblies featuring Buddhist sermons or ethical discussions, and on full moon days (Poya) with optional sil (precept-keeping) programs to nurture spiritual growth alongside academics. policies require daily assignments reviewed in class, with completion monitored to ensure consistent progress without overwhelming the core day. The system, established in 1979 under Principal T.S. Silva, plays a central role in upholding the for the student body. Led by a head and supported by deputy head prefects, senior prefects, and stewards from Grade 12, the guild enforces rules on , attire, and through patrols, oaths of duty, and initiatives like monitoring software. promote and societal responsibility, organizing minor events such as carnivals while maintaining order during breaks and transitions, ensuring the routines support the school's community effectively.

Sports

Cricket

Mahanama College's cricket program has developed into a prominent feature of the school's sporting tradition, with the team competing in various inter-school tournaments organized by the Schools Cricket Association (SLSCA). The college maintains dedicated facilities, including its main ground, which supports training and home matches for the squads across age groups. The team has secured several key victories in recent national competitions. In 2025, Mahanama College won the Under-19 Division 1 Tier 'A' Limited Overs Tournament, defeating Richmond College by four wickets in the final at the BOI Cricket Ground in , marking their first unbeaten championship run at this level. Earlier, in 2019, they clinched the Singer Under-17 Division 1 title with a three-wicket victory over St. Sebastian's College in the final at Thurstan College grounds. Additionally, the Under-13 squad emerged as champions of the Division II tournament in 2024. A highlight of the program's rivalries is the annual "Battle of the Golds" against , which began in 2007 as a two-day encounter and has since expanded to include limited-overs formats. Mahanama has dominated the series, securing nine wins in the first 18 one-day matches, including consecutive victories leading into 2025. In that year, the inaugural T20 edition introduced the K.N.P. De Silva Trophy, honoring the former principal who served from 1976 to 1986 and contributed significantly to the school's growth. The college has nurtured several players who have progressed to higher levels of the sport. Sonal Dinusha, a left-handed batter and slow left-arm orthodox bowler educated at Mahanama, made his Test debut for in June 2025 against , becoming the 170th player to represent the national team. Another alumnus, Dilesh Gunaratne, a left-arm fast-medium bowler, has played over 50 first-class matches since his debut in 2011, featuring for clubs like Cricket Club. These successes underscore the program's role within the school's broader sports infrastructure, which supports over 20 sports programs.

Other Sports

Mahanama College provides students with opportunities in over 20 sports programs beyond its flagship activities, fostering physical development and competitive spirit through rugby, , , , chess, carom, and others. These programs emphasize inter-school competitions, with dedicated coaching to prepare teams for national-level events organized by bodies like the Schools Association and the Schools Association. The rugby team has emerged as a prominent force, clinching the Premier Trophy at the Dialog Schools Rugby Knockouts 2024 by defeating 24-21 in the final at Havelock Park, marking their entry into Sri Lanka's elite schools rugby scene. This victory highlights the program's growth, with players representing the school in Division 1 league matches and contributing to national youth selections. Facilities supporting rugby include access to dedicated fields at venues like the Sugathadasa National Sports Complex, where the team trains and competes. In , the college fields teams in inter-school competitions, with access to an indoor court that facilitates regular practice and participation in zonal and national championships. stands out as a strength, with the team crowned champions of the 43rd L.V. Jayaweera Memorial Inter-School Championship in 2016, organized by the Mahanama College Old Boys' Association and Sri Lanka Schools Association, and repeating as winners of the 46th edition in 2022 at St. Sylvester's College, , after securing multiple gold medals in various weight categories. These triumphs have led to national representation, with standout boxers selected for 's squads in international meets. The program's coaching, led by figures like Y.M. Anura Yapa—named best coach in 2022—focuses on technical skill and discipline for ongoing inter-school success. Athletics receives strong institutional support, highlighted by the annual sports meet held on April 11, 2025, at the , where hundreds of students competed in events. Athletes train on college grounds and stadium facilities, participating in events like the Sir John Tarbat Senior Athletics Championship to represent at the provincial level. Chess and carom have delivered consistent honours in recent years, with chess teams earning placements in all-island tournaments and individual players competing in Asian Schools Chess Championships, such as under-13 representative Ravindu Sandaruwan in 2018. Carom squads have similarly excelled in national inter-school competitions, building on the school's reputation for indoor strategic . These programs involve specialized for inter-school leagues, promoting mental agility alongside physical activities.

Extracurricular Activities

Societies

Mahanama College maintains several student-led societies that emphasize academic development, debating prowess, and environmental stewardship, drawing participation from students across all grades to cultivate leadership qualities and ethical character. The Interact Club serves as a cornerstone for initiatives at the college, having been founded in under the sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Downtown . As a longstanding member of Interact District 3220 for more than three decades, the club engages students in diverse projects that blend service with skill-building, including the Eco-Fest event featuring tree-planting drives to promote environmental awareness. Additional activities encompass leadership training through attendance at district conferences, assemblies, and internal board elections, where members assume roles like president, , and treasurer to organize events and foster collaborative responsibility. Open to participants from every grade level, the Interact Club plays a pivotal role in character building by encouraging , , and . Its impactful work has garnered recognition as an outstanding club within District 3220, along with numerous citations and awards at both club and district levels. The Environment Society complements these efforts by spearheading conservation projects, such as large-scale tree-planting campaigns, including a 2022 initiative to plant 1,000 trees, to instill a sense of and environmental responsibility among members from various grades. The Oratory and Debating , for its part, hosts annual debates and oratory sessions that sharpen and abilities, contributing to the overall academic growth and character development of its participants across the school. In September 2025, the society was recognized as the Most Popular Debating Team at TourVoice 2025.

Media and Cultural Units

The Mahanama College Media Unit (MCMU), founded in 1987, serves as the primary body for production at the school, focusing on video to document and promote key events. This includes producing high-quality after-movies for annual sports encounters, such as the Battle of the Golds series, where live streams and highlight reels capture matches between Mahanama College and Dharmasoka College. The unit's work extends to cultural festivals, exemplified by their official after-movie for the Golden Parade Overdrive 2025, which showcases parades, performances, and community involvement in a dynamic montage. MCMU operates the school's official YouTube channel, TV Mahanama (@tvmahanama), which has amassed over 7,160 subscribers as of late 2025 and features a library of over 100 videos dedicated to school life. The channel provides external broadcasts, including live coverage of events like the Chathurmana '24 Media Day, allowing global audiences to engage with Mahanama's activities, from academic achievements to extracurricular highlights. This platform has revolutionized school media in Sri Lanka by emphasizing professional-grade editing and storytelling. Complementing the media efforts, the school's cultural units foster artistic expression through performance-based groups. The Drama Society organizes stage productions and competes nationally, achieving 1st place in the 2015 All Island Competition and 3rd place in 2016, with plays like "Green Way 2015" performed during commerce day events. The Mahanama College Senior Western Band, a ensemble, delivers live for school assemblies and external concerts, such as the Symphony '25 show held on June 27, 2025, at the college auditorium, featuring rhythmic marches and harmonious arrangements. The band also reached the finals of the Prashasthi Awards '25 rivalry on October 18, 2025. These units contribute to events like the Golden Parade by providing dramatic skits and musical accompaniments, enhancing the festive atmosphere with synchronized performances.

Notable Events and Achievements

Anniversaries and Traditions

Mahanama College, as a prominent Buddhist , upholds several enduring traditions that foster community spirit and among its students. These include regular Buddhist ceremonies observed on significant poya days, such as Poya, where the school organizes sil observation programs and bodhi pooja rituals to honor Buddhist principles and promote moral education. These ceremonies, often led by student guilds like the Prefects' Guild, reinforce the school's foundational values of and , drawing participation from the entire student body. Inter-house competitions form another cornerstone of the college's traditions, with annual house day events featuring meets and cultural activities that encourage healthy rivalry and teamwork. Houses such as Upekha, which has historically excelled in these meets, compete in athletics and other disciplines, culminating in championships that celebrate collective achievements. These competitions, held on school grounds, integrate with the school's emphasis on holistic development. The college marks its major milestones through grand anniversaries, exemplified by the 60th anniversary celebrations in 2014, which included an annual prize-giving event attended by President as chief guest. This occasion highlighted the institution's growth since its founding in 1954 and underscored its national significance. A key recurring tradition is the annual Golden Parade, a vibrant vehicle procession organized by the Old Boys' Association, which serves as both a cultural spectacle and a prelude to sports events like matches. Held in the lead-up to inter-school rivalries, it features customized vehicles parading through streets, blending modern flair with school pride and drawing large crowds to commemorate the college's dynamic spirit. Central to the school's sporting heritage is the Battle of the Golds, an annual cricket series against D.S. Senanayake College that began in 2007 and has since become a marquee event known as the "big match." Played in formats including one-day and T20 encounters at venues like the Sinhalese Sports Club, it symbolizes intense and has produced memorable contests, with Mahanama securing multiple victories over the years. In 2025, the 19th edition further solidified its status as a cherished .

Recent Developments

In 2025, Mahanama College's Under-19 team achieved a historic milestone by winning the Division 1 Tier 'A' Limited Overs , defeating Richmond College in the final on November 3 at the BOI Ground in . The team chased down Richmond's total of 109 runs, reaching 110 for 6 wickets in 19.5 overs to secure a four-wicket victory and claim the unbeaten championship title. The school's rugby program marked significant progress in the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2025, returning to Division 1A after 16 years following their Division B championship the previous season. Mahanama participated in key matches, including against S. Thomas' College and Zahira College, and ultimately finished as Bowl Runner-Up in the tournament. In athletics, student D. Methuja Sanudika earned second place in the Under-20 event at the All Island School Games 2025, highlighting the school's continued success in competitions. The Interact Club of Mahanama College organized the SHIFT IT event in 2025, partnering with the school's Golden Parade for an expanded street festival initiative aimed at engaging students in community and cultural activities. The Mahanama College Old Boys' Association (OBA) UK chapter held its Annual General Meeting on January 21, 2024, at Wanstead and Snaresbrook Cricket Club in , where members elected new office bearers and discussed ongoing support for the school. Post-2023, Mahanama College has maintained its enrollment of approximately 5,000 students across its 10-acre campus, with no major infrastructure expansions reported, though ongoing efforts focus on enhancing facilities through OBA contributions.

Notable Alumni

Sports Figures

Mahanama College has produced several prominent alumni in cricket, with many transitioning from school teams to domestic and international levels. Danushka Gunathilaka, a left-handed opening batsman and right-arm off-break bowler, attended the college and made his international debut for Sri Lanka in One Day Internationals in 2015 against Zimbabwe, followed by T20Is in 2015 and Tests in 2017; he has played 47 ODIs, 46 T20Is, and 8 Tests, scoring over 1,500 runs across formats. Sonal Dinusha, a left-handed batting all-rounder and slow left-arm orthodox bowler, also educated at Mahanama, debuted in Test cricket in June 2025 against Bangladesh as Sri Lanka's 170th Test capped player, marking a significant school-to-national progression in the longer format. Dilesh Gunaratne, a left-arm fast-medium bowler from the college, has featured in domestic competitions since his List A debut in the 2009–10 season and represented Sri Lanka A, contributing to the college's reputation for nurturing pace bowling talent. Dhananjaya de Silva, an off-spin all-rounder who briefly attended Mahanama before completing his schooling elsewhere, emerged from the college's early environment to become a mainstay in Sri Lanka's national side, debuting in 2016 and captaining the team in Tests by 2023 with over 50 Test appearances and 90 ODIs as of 2025. The college's program has facilitated smooth transitions for these players, with like Gunathilaka and Dinusha earning international caps shortly after school-level success in tournaments such as the Singer Under-19 Division I. Other notable cricketers include domestic performers who have bolstered provincial sides, contributing to Mahanama's legacy of producing around 20 competitive athletes in the sport. In rugby, Mahanama alumni have excelled at the national level, particularly in and 15s formats. Kapila Knowlton, a former captain of the college rugby team, represented in international competitions, including as skipper for the Army Sports Club and later serving as a national team manager for events like the Kathmandu in 2024. He earned recognition for his contributions, including executive roles in Rugby from 2018 onward. Nalin Dissanayake, known as the "iron man" of Sri Lankan rugby, played for the national team in both 15s and formats and captained the college team in 1991. Mithun Hapugoda, a versatile back who captained the national team, amassed over 100 club games with Havelock SC before joining Police SC in 2023, showcasing his try-scoring prowess in the Dialog Rugby League. The 2024 Premier Trophy-winning Mahanama school team, which clinched the Dialog Schools Rugby Knockouts final against , featured emerging talents who have since progressed to national youth squads, highlighting the college's role in fostering rugby pathways to senior international representation. These exemplify Mahanama's emphasis on discipline and skill development, with many securing positions in club rugby and national development programs post-graduation.

Other Fields

Mahanama College have made significant contributions in , with Shasheendra Rajapaksa serving as a prominent example; he completed his at the school before pursuing higher studies and entering public life as the of from 2009 to 2015. Rajapaksa, a member of the , has also held positions as a for the and State Minister for Organic Fertilizer Production, Supply and Regulation, Paddy and Grains, Organic Food, Vegetables, Fruits, Chilies, Onions, Potatoes, Seeds, and Seedlings. In the military domain, several alumni have risen to senior ranks in the . Channa D. Weerasuriya, who received his education at Mahanama College, , joined the army in 1986 and advanced to roles including Deputy and , serving as Colonel of the Regiment for the . Another notable figure is Sumal Prasanga Wikramasekara, who completed his primary and at the college before joining the army and attaining the rank of . C.S. Rathnayaka, educated at Mahanama College and commissioned in 1995, has served in the Service , including as Officer Commanding of the Independent Transport Squadron. Alumni in academia include Pradeep Ratnayake, who attended Mahanama College as part of his early and later became of Music at the , where he also served as Head of the Department of Music and . Ratnayake, an acclaimed sitarist, has received international recognition, including the Best Film Music Director award at the International Buddhist Film Festival in in 2015 for his work on "Sri Siddhartha Gautama", the first such award for a Sri Lankan . In professional fields, particularly engineering, Eranga Weeraratne stands out as an alumnus who earned a B.Sc. in from the and has applied his expertise in as Deputy Minister of Technology and Digital Economy. The Mahanama College Old Boys' Association (OBA) has facilitated contributions from such professionals, supporting initiatives in education, sports, and community development in through donations and programs since the organization's early activities.

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