{{Short description|Buddhist boys school in Sri Lanka}} {{Other uses|Nalanda College (disambiguation){{!}}Nalanda College}} {{Multiple issues|{{peacock|date=January 2025}} {{Primary sources|date=July 2025}} {{Unreliable sources|date=July 2025}}}} {{Use dmy dates|date=May 2026}} {{Use British English|date=September 2025}} {{Infobox school | name = Nalanda College, Colombo | native_name = {{nobold|නාලන්දා විද්යාලය, කොළඹ}} <br /> {{nobold|நாளந்தா கல்லூரி, கொழும்பு}} | logo = Logo of Nalanda College Colombo.png | logo_size = 240px | image = | caption = | religious_affiliation = Buddhist | location = Siri Dhamma Mawatha | city = Colombo | country = Sri Lanka | postal_code = 01000 | motto = {{langx|pi|අපදාන සෝභිනී පඤ්ඤා}}<br/>''Āpadāna Sobhinī Panñā'' | motto_translation = Character Illumines Wisdom<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.accesstoinsight.org/tipitaka/an/an03/an03.002.than.html|title=Lakkhana Sutta: Characterized (by Action)}}</ref> | established = {{Start date and age|1925|11|1|df=yes}} | type = Public school | category = National school | principal = Iran Champika | grades = 1–13 | lower_age = 6 | upper_age = 19 | enrollment = 4000+ | system = National Education System | gender = Boys | hours_in_day = 07:10–13:10 | houses = {{Hlist|Soorya|Chandra|Maurya|Nanda}} | colours = Maroon and silver<br/>{{color box|maroon}}{{color box|silver}} | song = bænda dhajā siri lakdiva mandira | athletics = Yes | sports = Yes | affiliation = Ministry for Education | alumni = Old Nalandians | information = | website = {{URL|nalandacollege.lk}} | picture = 125px | picture_caption = Flag of Nalanda College, Colombo }}
'''Nalanda College''' ({{langx|si|නාලන්දා විද්යාලය}}) is a Buddhist school in Sri Lanka that provides primary and secondary education for boys.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ministry of Education |url=http://moe.gov.lk/ |website=moe.gov.lk}}</ref> The school was founded by Buddhist educator Patrick de Silva Kularatne as an offshoot of Ananda College, Colombo, and was officially registered as a separate institution on 1 November 1925.<ref>{{cite web|title=History of Nalanda|publisher=Nalanda College Colombo|url=http://www.nalanda.sch.lk/index.plhp/history|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130727021511/http://www.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/history|url-status=dead|archive-date=2013-07-27}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref>
==History== In 1922, a section of Ananda College was relocated to Campbell Place, Colombo, following a proposal by Kularatne. L. H. Mettananda was appointed principal of this institution, which became known as the Ananda branch. W. E. Fernando served as headmaster, and Ven. Balangoda Ananda Maitreya Thero became its first Buddhist teacher.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/170723/education/education-news/statues-for-2-past-outstanding-ananda-college-principals-251226.html|title=Statues for 2 past, outstanding Ananda College Principals {{pipe}} The Sunday Times Sri Lanka}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.island.lk/2009/07/11/opinion6.html|title=The Island-Opinion|website=www.island.lk}}</ref>
In 1922, the Governor of Ceylon laid the foundation stone.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The History of Nalanda College, Sri Lanka – Nalanda College OBA UK |url=https://oldnalandians.co.uk/about-us/history-of-nalanda-oba/ |access-date=22 January 2026 |website=oldnalandians.co.uk}}</ref> In 1924, Kularatne spent Rs. 5,500 to purchase {{cvt|0.25|acre|ha|order=flip}} of land near the Campbell Place playground and built sixteen classrooms for the new school, including three for laboratory use and two containing the principal and staff offices. A total of 330 students from Ananda were transferred under the care of Mettananda in 1924.<ref>[http://mirroreducation.dailymirror.lk/2-uncategorised/268-character-illuminates-wisdom-at-nalanda Character illuminates wisdom at Nalanda]</ref>
Kularatne helped register the institution as a separate school on 1 November 1925. The new school was given its motto, ''Apadana Sobhini Panna'', while the school name ''Nalanda'' was proposed by Ananda Maitreya Thero. The English and the Sinhala versions are "''Character illumines Wisdom''", and "''Yahapath Charithayen Praggnawa Opanangwe''", respectively. Ananda Maitreya Thero selected this motto from the ''Anguttara Nikaya, Tika Nipata, Bala Waggo Lakkhana Sutta''.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.buddhistculture.org/balangoda-ananda-maitreya-thero.html |title=Balangoda Ananda Maitreya Thero |access-date=20 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427214409/http://www.buddhistculture.org/balangoda-ananda-maitreya-thero.html |archive-date=27 April 2017 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
On 1 January 1926, Kularatne appointed Dr. Gunapala Piyasena Malalasekera as the first registered principal of the newly formed Nalanda College,<ref>[https://archives1.dailynews.lk/2022/11/09/features/290751/true-guide-philosopher-and-leader Gunapala Malalasekera - the Illustrious Professor (1899-1973): A True Guide, Philosopher and Leader]</ref> and transferred Mettananda back to Ananda College as vice principal. Malalasekara launched several projects, making plans for the collection of funds for the construction of buildings, and later commenced a bulletin titled ''Nalanda''. He also arranged 15-minute talks on Buddhism at the daily students' assembly and took many steps to promote the Buddhist environment in the school.{{Citation needed|date=December 2025}}
Kularatne laid the foundation stone for a second building on 30 March 1926. By the end of 1926, the number of students had increased to 550. Later, he borrowed money from Anagarika Dharmapala to purchase land for the primary section, which was then settled by Malalasekara. The student assembly hall, Malalasekara Theater, is named after him.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=http://www.thesundayleader.lk/archive/20060430/review.htm|title=The Sunday Leader Online|website=www.thesundayleader.lk|access-date=12 August 2014|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304060644/http://www.thesundayleader.lk/archive/20060430/review.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=77772|title=The Island|website=www.island.lk}}</ref>
== Academics == Students of Nalanda College have participated in national-level examinations, with some achieving high grades in O-Level and A-Level exams, as well as in various sports competitions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sundaytimes.lk/050410/news/17.html |title=Only half qualify for A/L |publisher=Sundaytimes.lk |access-date=4 December 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nation.lk/2007/04/08/special1.htm |title=A cut above the rest |publisher=Nation.lk |access-date=4 December 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120906160041/http://www.nation.lk/2007/04/08/special1.htm|archive-date=6 September 2012}}</ref>
==Awards== In 2011, Nalanda students won first place in the world at the Oracle Thinkquest Application Development. They also won first place in the International Students Biotechnology Competition and the 14th place in the International Convention on Students' Quality Control Circles, held in Lucknow, India.<ref>{{cite web |date=11 September 2011 |title=Nalandians win two international competitions |url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2011/09/11/fea10.asp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110917111955/http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2011/09/11/fea10.asp |archive-date=17 September 2011 |access-date=4 December 2011 |publisher=Sundayobserver.lk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=12 July 2011 |title=Lankan students take top honours: Think Quest International Competition |url=http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/07/12/bus11.asp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120808190851/http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/07/12/bus11.asp |archive-date=8 August 2012 |access-date=4 December 2011 |publisher=Dailynews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=15 October 2011 |title=Nalanda students shine at ThinkQuest competition |url=http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/10/15/news41.asp |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120723010940/http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/10/15/news41.asp |archive-date=23 July 2012 |access-date=4 December 2011 |publisher=Dailynews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=12 October 2011 |title=Nalandians win coveted ThinkQuest World Championship in San Francisco |url=http://srilankafoundation.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2407:nalandians-win-coveted-thinkquest-worldchampionship-in-san-francisco-&catid=1:general&Itemid=289 |access-date=4 December 2011 |publisher=Srilankafoundation.lk}}{{dead link|date=September 2017|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=11 July 2011 |title='Application Development'-Nalanda College best in the world |url=http://www.lankapuvath.lk/index.php/home/hot-stories/video-story/16768-application-development-nalanda-college-best-in-the-world- |access-date=4 December 2011 |publisher=Lankapuvath.lk}}</ref> Students of Nalanda College, Colombo, have also participated in research activities.<ref>{{cite web |title=Cancer cure breakthrough by Nalanda student |url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2014/03/16/fea07.asp |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140316075350/http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2014/03/16/fea07.asp |archive-date=16 March 2014 |access-date=24 March 2014 |publisher=Sundayobserver.lk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Cancer repellent in Ceylon Tea |url=http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=local/cancer-repellent-ceylon-tea |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324083033/http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=local%2Fcancer-repellent-ceylon-tea |archive-date=24 March 2014 |access-date=24 March 2014 |publisher=Dailynews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Nalanda student finds cure for Leukemia from green tea |url=http://www.itnnews.lk/?p=37589 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324075907/http://www.itnnews.lk/?p=37589 |archive-date=24 March 2014 |access-date=24 March 2014 |publisher=ITNnews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=International achievers of Nalanda to be honoured |url=http://dailynews.lk/?q=local/international-achievers-nalanda-be-honoured |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113050319/http://dailynews.lk/?q=local%2Finternational-achievers-nalanda-be-honoured |archive-date=13 November 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Nalandians Rakitha and Rananjaya win Gold at ISPRO 2015 {{pipe}} The Sunday Times Sri Lanka |url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/150524/news/nalandians-rakitha-and-rananjaya-win-gold-at-ispro-2015-150136.html}}</ref> In 2017, a student of the Research Forum won a silver medal for his research work, "Deposition of air pollutants on pollen grains and occurrence of respiratory allergies among humans," at the International Conference of Young Scientists in Germany.<ref>{{Cite web |last=JAYAWARDANA |first=Ruwini |title=Smart work! |url=http://www.dailynews.lk/2017/02/01/features/106284/smart-work |website=Daily News}}</ref><ref name="nation.lk">{{Cite web |title=Childhood allergies lead to award-winning research |url=http://nation.lk/online/2017/05/06/childhood-allergies-lead-to-award-winning-research.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222051818/http://nation.lk/online/2017/05/06/childhood-allergies-lead-to-award-winning-research.html |archive-date=22 December 2017 |access-date=20 May 2017}}</ref>
== Nalanda College Communication Unit == thumb|Nalanda College Announcers|235x235px ''Nalanda College Communication Unit'' (Sinhala: ''නාලන්දා විද්යාලයීය ජනසන්නිවේදන ඒකකය''), also known as ''The Communication Unit of Nalanda College'' or ''NCCU Studios'', is the official school communication society of Nalanda College. Established in 1986, Nalanda College Communication Unit has been working as an outstanding school communication society in Sri Lanka up to the present.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-08|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - History|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/history|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008171832/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/history |archive-date=2013-10-08 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka., Nalanda College, Colombo (2021)|url=https://www.schoolandcollegelistings.com/LK/Colombo/135225703214703/Nalanda-College,-Colombo,-Sri-Lanka.|access-date=2021-06-28|website=www.schoolandcollegelistings.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=XtreamYouth - Home|url=https://www.xtreamyouth.com/home/58-xtream-events/photo-albums?start=195|access-date=2021-06-28|website=www.xtreamyouth.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Nalanda College Communication Unit, Nalanda College, Colombo 10, Colombo (2021)|url=http://www.findglocal.com/LK/Colombo/121943337868508/Nalanda-College-Communication-Unit|access-date=2021-06-28|website=www.findglocal.com}}</ref>
Nalanda College began its ascension to media supremacy on 24<sup>th</sup> May 1926, by launching a school newspaper ''Nalanda Pravurthi'' (Sinhala: නාලන්දා ප්රවෘත්ති, lit: Nalanda News) in accordance to the ''Nalanda Kusum Dina'' Campaign by professor Gunapala Malalasekara, principal at that time.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-07-27|title=Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - History|url=http://www.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/history|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130727021511/http://www.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/history |archive-date=2013-07-27 }}</ref> In 1927, a school magazine ''Nalanda Sangarawa'' (Sinhala: නාලන්දා සඟරාව, lit: Nalanda Magazine) was launched.
Nalanda College's communication network was founded in 1986 under the name ''Nalanda College Communication Unit,'' carrying the motto ''Muhukura Nagena Janasanniwedanaye Abhimanaya'' (Sinhala: මුහුකුරා නැගෙන ජනසන්නිවේදනයේ අභිමානය, lit: ''The Pride of Emerging Mass Communication''). A pioneer in school-level media, the unit grew from its origins into a structured institution open to students from Grade 6 through Advanced Levels.
Today, the unit upholds that legacy by producing some of Sri Lanka's most recognized school television and radio broadcasts, organizing All-Island Media Day Competitions, and extending its reach across digital platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music.
=== Magazine === thumb|Nalanda Magazine|222x222px 'Nalanda' magazine started as a bimonthly magazine to bring forth the language skills of the outstanding Nalanda young journalists, presumably with the foundation introduced with 'Nalanda Pravurthi' and 'Nalanda Sangarawa' in the early days of Nalanda College. The magazine continued until its final issue in 1978. It started again as a newspaper in 1998 June following the guidance of the principal at that time: Mr. Edward Ranasinghe. Under the motto 'Sin: විමර්ශනාත්මක මනසකින් යුතු මාධ්යවේදීන් බිහි වේවා.' (Let journalists with an investigative mind be born) this newspaper captured peer fame as writers from surrounding schools were also encouraged to write articles for the magazine.
In October 2012, the first issue of 'Livseriya' (Sihhala: ලිව්සැරිය): a trimonthly newspaper, was published by Nalanda College Communication Unit under the directions of the principal Mr. J. H. M. W. Ranjith Jayasundara, only to be canceled after the first issue.
Despite the previous setbacks, Nalanda College Communication Unit relaunched the 'Nalanda' trimonthly magazine in 2018, this time with a steady foundation to ensure a continuous publication. The magazine continues to publish until the present while enabling to enforce the linguistic magnificence of students, teachers, and past pupils of Nalanda College.<ref>{{Cite web|last=chethiyakorala|date=2018-09-27|title=නාලන්දාවට නව සඟරාවක්…|url=https://nccustudios.com/2018/09/28/%e0%b6%b1%e0%b7%8f%e0%b6%bd%e0%b6%b1%e0%b7%8a%e0%b6%af%e0%b7%8f%e0%b7%80%e0%b6%a7-%e0%b6%b1%e0%b7%80-%e0%b7%83%e0%b6%9f%e0%b6%bb%e0%b7%8f%e0%b7%80%e0%b6%9a%e0%b7%8a/|access-date=2021-06-28|website=Nalanda College Communication Unit|language=en}}</ref>
=== Television Broadcasts<ref>{{Cite web|date=2014-01-18|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Nalanda TV|url=http://nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/nalanda-tv|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140118020409/http://nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/nalanda-tv |archive-date=2014-01-18 }}</ref> === thumb|(Nalanda TV) NTV 2019|303x303px * 2005 – Nalanda TV (Sri Lanka's first ever school TV broadcast) * 2008 – Nalanda TV (Sri Lanka’s first-ever school TV broadcast using Chroma Technology) *2009 – Nalanda TV * 2012 – Nalanda TV (Sri Lanka’s first-ever school TV broadcast using IPTV Technology) * 2013 – Nalanda TV * 2019 – NTV
=== Radio Stations<ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-08|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Nalandasara|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/nalandasara|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008171845/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/nalandasara |archive-date=2013-10-08 }}</ref> === * 1996 – Ecstasy of Nalanda * 1997 – Nalandasara * 1998 – Nalandasara * 1999 – Nalandasara * 1999 – Broadcasting of a radio channel parallel to the 75th anniversary of Nalanda College * 2001 – Ecstasy of Nalanda * 2005 – Nalandasara * 2006 – Nalandasara * 2007 – Nalandasara (Sri Lanka’s first-ever school Web Radio broadcast) * 2008 – Nalandasara * 2010 – Nalandasara<ref>{{Cite web|title={{!}}{{!}} Daily News Online Edition - Sri lanka :: Print Page|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2001/pix/PrintPage.asp?REF=/2010/02/24/news60.asp|access-date=2021-06-28|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref> * 2011 – Nalandasara<ref>{{Cite web|title=Sri Lanka News {{!}} Sundayobserver.lk|url=http://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2011/02/13/new50.asp|access-date=2021-06-28|website=archives.sundayobserver.lk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Sri Lanka News {{!}} Online edition of Daily News - Lakehouse Newspapers|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2011/02/11/news60.asp|access-date=2021-06-28|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref> * 2012 – Nalandasara<ref>{{Cite web|title=|url=https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/sunday-times-sri-lanka/20120226/315744522426554|access-date=2021-06-28|via=PressReader}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=|url=https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/daily-mirror-sri-lanka/20120221/291104295043100|access-date=2021-06-28|via=PressReader}}</ref>
=== All-island Bilingual Announcing Competitions and Media Days<ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-08|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Old Media Days|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day/old-media-days|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008171855/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day/old-media-days |archive-date=2013-10-08 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-08|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Sambhasha (Media Day)|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008171850/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day |archive-date=2013-10-08 }}</ref> ===
* 2004 – Sambhasha *2005 – Sambhasha *2006 – Sambhasha *2007 – Sambhasha *2008 – Sambhasha *2009 – Sambhasha *2010 – Sambhasha *2011 – Sambhasha<ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-08|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Sambhasha 2011|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-announcing-competition/sambhasha-2011|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008141202/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-announcing-competition/sambhasha-2011 |archive-date=2013-10-08 }}</ref> * 2012 – Sambhasha Twenty'12<ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-08|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Sambhasha 2012|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-announcing-competition/sambhasha-2012|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008141230/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-announcing-competition/sambhasha-2012 |archive-date=2013-10-08 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-08|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Sambhasha Twenty'12|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day/sambhasha-twenty-12|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008171900/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day/sambhasha-twenty-12 |archive-date=2013-10-08 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=|url=https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/daily-mirror-sri-lanka/20120623/282196533037204http://archives.dailynews.lk/2012/10/17/news60.asp|access-date=2021-06-28|via=PressReader}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Sambhasha 2012|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2012/10/17/news60.asp|access-date=2021-06-28|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref> * 2013 – Sambhasha<ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-07|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Sambhasha 2013|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-announcing-competition/sambhasha2013|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131007091225/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-announcing-competition/sambhasha2013 |archive-date=2013-10-07 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Speak, at your best!|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2013/07/10/fea33.asp|access-date=2021-06-28|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title={{!}}{{!}} Daily News Online Edition - Sri lanka :: Print Page|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2001/pix/PrintPage.asp?REF=/2013/07/09/fea50.asp|access-date=2021-06-28|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=User|first=Super|title=Sambhasha 2013|url=https://www.xtreamyouth.com/events/school/nalanda-college-colombo/sambhasha-2013|access-date=2021-06-28|website=Xtream Youth|language=en-gb}}</ref> * 2014 – Sambhasha<ref>{{Cite web|title=|url=https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/sunday-times-sri-lanka/20141012/283618168372567|access-date=2021-06-28|via=PressReader}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=User|first=Super|title=Sambhasha 2014|url=https://www.xtreamyouth.com/events/school/visakha-vidyalaya/the-investiture-ceremony-of-the-senior-prefects-pahan-ceremony-2018/58-xtream-events/photo-albums/1969-sambhasha-2014|access-date=2021-06-28|website=Xtream Youth|language=en-gb}}</ref> * 2015 – Sambhasha<ref>{{Cite web|title=|url=https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/sunday-times-sri-lanka/20150705/283729837941100|access-date=2021-06-28|via=PressReader}}</ref> * 2016 – Sambhasha<ref>{{Cite web|title=Sambhasha 2016 (The MEDIA Competition)|url=https://www.wherevent.com/detail/The-Communication-Unit-Sambhasha-2016-The-MEDIA-Competition|access-date=2021-06-28|website=www.wherevent.com|language=en}}</ref> * 2017 – Sambhasha<ref>{{Cite web|last=Rishani|title=SAMBHASHA 2017 All Island Inter School Media Competition|url=https://www.yamu.lk/event/sambhasha-2017-all-island-inter-school-media-competition|access-date=2021-06-28|website=YAMU|language=en}}</ref>
=== Board of Officials of the Communication Unit === The Board of Officials is responsible for the administration of the Nalanda College Communication Unit. Each year the old batch resigns after nourishing their successors with the customs and traditions of the supremacy since 1986.
==== Presidents of the Communication Unit<ref>{{Cite web|date=2013-10-08|title=The Communication Unit of Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka. - Office Bearers|url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/administration/office-bearers|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131008171552/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/administration/office-bearers |archive-date=2013-10-08 }}</ref> ==== {| class="wikitable" !Name !Year |- |Mahendra Padmakumara |2004/2005 |- |Ruwan Kumanayaka |2005/2006 |- |Dananjaya Weerasinghe |2006/2007 |- |Tilan Liyanage |2007/2008 |- |Thilina Disanayake |2008/2009 |- |Shan Piyumal |2009/2010 |- |Gihan Samarawickrama |2010/2011 |- |Ranga Dunuwila |2011/2012 |- |Eranda Sanchagodage |2012/2013 |- |Yasas Vimukthi Gunawardana |2013/2014 |- |Tharindu Ransika |2014/2015 |- |Kanishka Nirmal |2014/2015 |- |Ruchira Warnakulasooriya |2015/2016 |- |Kasun Abeykoon |2016/2017 |- |Sahan Vishwajith de Alwis |2017/2018 |- |Chethiya Korala |2018/2019 |- |Akila Arampath |2019/2020 |- |Dasun Sankalpa |2020/2021 |}
==== 2020/2021 - Board of Officials of the Communication Unit<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-11-06|title=Office Bearers|url=https://nccustudios.com/office-bearers/|access-date=2021-06-28|website=Nalanda College Communication Unit|language=en}}</ref> ==== {| class="wikitable" !Position !Name |- |Principal |Thilak Waththuhewa |- |Chief Instructor |Lakshman Amarasooriya |- |Chief Teacher In Charge |Asoka Dharmadasa |- |Teachers In Charge |Wasana Payagala, Ayomi Kandegedara, Ramya Wanigasekara |- |President |Dasun Sankalpa |- |Secretary |Sahan Ranithra |- |Treasurer |Nadil Jayakody |- |Vice President |Chanul Withanage |- |Chief Organizer |Aneegha Thambawita |- |Organizers |Praveen Manupriya, Kavinu Wethmin, Basuru Hettiarachchi, Terran Lansakara |- |Chief Co-ordinator |Chanith Liyanagamage |- |Co-ordinators |Manodya Malshan, Naveen Tharusha, Yohan Kanchana, Pasindu Kalhara |}
=== Old Nalandians' Communication Unit === Nalanda College has many gifted alumni and among them, there are many people associated with the industry of communication: {| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:100%" |- ! style="width:*;" | Name ! style="width:65%;" class="unsortable" | Notability |- | {{sortname|Denzil|Peiris}} | Editor of The Ceylon Observer (1961-1970) |- | {{sortname|Chitrananda|Abeysekera}} | Poet, former Director of Sinhala Service of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation |- | {{sortname|Karunaratne|Abeysekera}} | Poet, songwriter, created history in the world of radio by being the first-ever Sinhala cricket commentator over airwaves of Radio CeylonÄ |- | Kala Suri Premasara Epasinghe | Cricket Commentator, Private Secretary and Media Consultant to Minister of Education, former Head of Public Relations Bank of Ceylon |- | {{sortname|Rajeewa|Jayaweera}} | Newspaper Columnist |- | {{sortname|Srimath Indrajith|Liyanage}} | Television and radio presenter; actor |- | {{sortname|Palitha|Perera}} | Former Deputy Director General (Commercial) of Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation, former Director of Sinhala Service Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation and a cricket commentator |- | {{sortname|Suwanda H. J.|Sugunasiri}} | Columnist of ''Toronto Star'', Ontario, Canada |- | {{sortname|Nalaka|Vithanage}} | Theatre, television and cinema director |- | U. A. {{sortname|Siri|Perera}} QC | "Siri Aiya" of Radio Ceylon |- | {{sortname|Gunadasa|Amarasekara}} | Writer, poet and a dental surgeon |}
==Campbell Place== thumb|Nalanda College Play Ground, Campbell Place The College's playground, Campbell Place,<ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/160313/sports/from-ananda-mawatha-to-campbell-place-186030.html From Ananda Mawatha to Campbell Place]</ref><ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/121125/sports/look-out-for-these-lads-from-campbell-place-21955.html Look out for these lads from Campbell Place]</ref> is named after Sir George William Campbell, the first Inspector General of Police of British Ceylon.<ref>[https://island.lk/renaming-colombo-roads-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/ Renaming Colombo Roads – The Good, the Bad and the Ugly]</ref> The adjoining road, previously called Campbell Place, has been renamed Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha, in recognition of Ananda Rajakaruna, a pioneer of Sinhala poetry.<ref>[https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2006/11/19/jun02.asp Ananda Rajakaruna: He wrote poems for children]</ref><ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/070211/FunDay/heritage.html Our Heritage]</ref>
==Sports== Nalanda College has a playground at Campbell Place,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.asiantribune.com/news/2011/03/02/ananda-and-nalanda%E2%80%93-symbol-sri-lankan-cricket |title=Ananda and Nalanda–A symbol of Sri Lankan Cricket|publisher=Asian Tribune |date=3 March 2011 |access-date=7 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2011/02/27/spo10.asp |title=Fresher - laden Nalanda has tough job against Ananda |publisher=Sunday Observer |date=27 February 2011 |access-date=7 March 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160117101303/http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2011/02/27/spo10.asp |archive-date=17 January 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dailynews.lk/2012/02/28/news26.asp |title=President commends Sri Lankan expats |publisher=Dailynews |date=28 February 2012 |access-date=7 March 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120301180130/http://www.dailynews.lk/2012/02/28/news26.asp |archive-date=1 March 2012 }}</ref> a sports complex,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ft.lk/2012/02/28/captain-cool/ |title=Captain Cool? |publisher=Daily FT |date=28 February 2012 |access-date=7 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120608231732/http://www.ft.lk/2012/02/28/captain-cool/ |archive-date=8 June 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailynews.lk/2009/11/24/spo04.asp |title=President commends Sri Lankan expats |publisher=Dailynews|date=28 February 2012 |access-date=7 March 2012}}</ref> a squash court,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailynews.lk/2009/11/24/spo04.asp |title=New squash court for Nalanda |publisher=Dailynews |date=24 November 2009 |access-date=7 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2010/11/28/spo12.asp |title=Nalanda to popularise squash among schools |publisher=Sunday Observer |date=28 November 2010 |access-date=7 March 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016104952/http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2010/11/28/spo12.asp |archive-date=16 October 2012}}</ref> a swimming pool,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wikimapia.org/6500898/Nalanda-College-Swimming-Pool |title=Nalanda College Swimming Pool |publisher=Wikimapia |access-date=7 March 2012}}{{unreliable source?|date=July 2025}}</ref> a shooting range,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sundaytimes.lk/111127/Sports/spt13.html|title=Rifle shooting hits schools at last |work=Sunday Times|date=27 November 2011 |access-date=7 March 2012}}</ref> a boxing ring,<ref>[https://www.themorning.lk/articles/Xc5bVtc4fPHy3lrAVDve A boxing ring for Nalanda]</ref> and other sports facilities<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nalandajunioroba.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=92:the-school-playground-opening&catid=13:front-page-news-items |title=The school playground opening |publisher=NJOBA |date=17 April 2012 |access-date=14 May 2012 |archive-date=17 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160117101302/http://www.nalandajunioroba.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=92:the-school-playground-opening&catid=13:front-page-news-items |url-status=dead }}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref> including:
{{div col|colwidth=15em}} * Athletics<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nation.lk/edition/lifestyle/item/25861-a-lad-for-all-seasons.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812204947/http://www.nation.lk/edition/lifestyle/item/25861-a-lad-for-all-seasons.html|title=A lad for all seasons|archive-date=12 August 2014}}</ref> * Archery<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/040926/plus/2.html|title=Plus}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2010/12/13/spo09.asp|title=Sri Lanka Sports News {{pipe}} Online edition of Daily News - Lakehouse Newspapers|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://sports.dailymirror.lk/2013/11/22/features-archery-getting-closer-to-the-target/|title=Feature: Archery – Getting closer to the target : Mirror Sports|access-date=12 August 2014|archive-date=24 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170724111826/http://sports.dailymirror.lk/2013/11/22/features-archery-getting-closer-to-the-target/|url-status=dead}}</ref> * Badminton<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nalanda.sch.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=217&Itemid=46 |title=Badminton at Nalanda |publisher=Nalanda.sch.lk |date=7 June 2007 |access-date=4 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111003174816/http://nalanda.sch.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=217&Itemid=46 |archive-date=3 October 2011 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/140720/sports/nalanda-the-best-shuttlers-107499.html|title=Nalanda – the best shuttlers {{pipe}} The Sundaytimes Sri Lanka}}</ref> * Baseball<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nalanda.sch.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=218&Itemid=46 |title=Baseball at Nalanda |publisher=Nalanda.sch.lk |date=7 June 2007 |access-date=4 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111003174930/http://nalanda.sch.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=218&Itemid=46 |archive-date=3 October 2011 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nation.lk/edition/lifestyle/item/24039-i-want-to-study--baseball-star.html |title="i want to study " - Baseball star |publisher=Nation.lk |access-date=24 March 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324082945/http://www.nation.lk/edition/lifestyle/item/24039-i-want-to-study--baseball-star.html |archive-date=24 March 2014}}</ref> * Basketball<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/110703/Sports/spt02.html|title=Nalanda wins U-17 Baseball C'ship}}</ref> * Boxing<ref>[https://archives1.dailynews.lk/2023/04/06/sports/300872/nalanda-gets-boxing-ring-many-years-after-producing-olympian Nalanda gets a boxing ring many years after producing an Olympian]</ref> * Cadet Platoon<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nalanda-college-senior-cadet-platoon-Army-cadet/504322816303910|title=Security Check Required|website=Facebook }}{{unreliable source?|date=July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://mirroreducation.dailymirror.lk/2-uncategorised/268-character-illuminates-wisdom-at-nalanda|title=Education Times - Character illuminates wisdom at Nalanda|author=Senal Warnakula}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2013/11/17/sec05.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714203538/http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2013/11/17/sec05.asp|title=NTC parade ends on high note|url-status=live|archive-date=14 July 2014}}</ref> * Cadet Band<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/eastern.nalanda/|title=Nalanda College Eastern Cadet Band - NCECB|website=www.facebook.com}}{{unreliable source?|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Chess<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nation.lk/edition/sport-online/item/21496-girls-high-school-nalanda-win-senior-chess-titles.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812204951/http://www.nation.lk/edition/sport-online/item/21496-girls-high-school-nalanda-win-senior-chess-titles.html|title=Girls High School, Nalanda win senior chess titles|archive-date=12 August 2014}}</ref><ref>[http://www.dailynews.lk/2020/11/28/sports/234670/fourteen-year-old-nalandian-susal-youngest-fide-master-sri-lanka Fourteen year old Nalandian Susal youngest Fide Master in Sri Lanka]</ref> * Gymnastics<ref name="auto"/> * Hockey<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=1369|title=The Island|website=www.island.lk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/130811/sports/nalanda-and-vijaya-college-are-joint-champs-57398.html|title=Nalanda and Vijaya college are joint champs {{pipe}} The Sundaytimes Sri Lanka}}</ref> * Martial Arts – Karate, Wushu<ref>[http://www.dailynews.lk/2016/12/20/sports/102412?page=4 Nalanda College won Kumithe category championship]</ref> * Rugby Football<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nalanda.sch.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=44&Itemid=46 |title=Rugby Football at Nalanda |publisher=Nalanda.sch.lk |date=1 May 2006 |access-date=4 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111003174938/http://nalanda.sch.lk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=44&Itemid=46 |archive-date=3 October 2011 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Rowing<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/nalandarowing/|title=Nalanda College Rowing Crew|website=www.facebook.com}}{{unreliable source?|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Rifle Shooting<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/111127/Sports/spt13.html|title=Rifle shooting hits schools at last}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/121007/sports/nalanda-and-devi-balika-on-top-14795.html|title=Nalanda and Devi Balika on top {{pipe}} The Sundaytimes Sri Lanka}}</ref> * Soccer (Football)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2011/09/25/spo12.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924132248/http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2011/09/25/spo12.asp|title=Dharmaraja Invitation Soccer Tournament starts today|url-status=live|archive-date=24 September 2015}}</ref> * Squash<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2010/11/26/spo06.asp|title=Sri Lanka Sports News {{pipe}} Online edition of Daily News - Lakehouse Newspapers|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2010/11/28/spo12.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016104952/http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2010/11/28/spo12.asp|title=Nalanda to popularise squash among schools|url-status=live|archive-date=16 October 2012}}</ref> * Swimming<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/about/resources/swimming-pool|title=Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka - Swimming Pool|author=Nalanda College|work=Nalanda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka|access-date=12 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140725174437/http://www.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/about/resources/swimming-pool|archive-date=25 July 2014|url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/130519/sports/nalanda-swim-through-to-claim-triangular-title-45041.html|title=Nalanda swim through to claim Triangular title {{pipe}} The Sundaytimes Sri Lanka}}</ref> * Tennis<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2008/07/07/spo16.asp|title=Sri Lanka Sports News {{pipe}} Online edition of Daily News - Lakehouse Newspapers|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref> * Volleyball<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nation.lk/edition/lifestyle/item/17563-thimira-turns-draws-into-wins.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812204944/http://www.nation.lk/edition/lifestyle/item/17563-thimira-turns-draws-into-wins.html|title=Thimira turns draws into wins|archive-date=12 August 2014}}</ref> * Water Polo<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=sports/ds-senanayaka-college-win-gratien-gunawardena-challange-trophy |title=DS Senanayaka College win Gratien Gunawardena Challenge Trophy |publisher=Dailynews |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140812212403/http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=sports%2Fds-senanayaka-college-win-gratien-gunawardena-challange-trophy |archive-date=12 August 2014}}</ref> {{div col end}}
===Cricket=== ====Battle of the Maroons==== {{Main|Battle of the Maroons (Colombo)}}
The encounter was first played in 1924, and is since played as a three-day<ref>[https://www.themorning.lk/articles/ztooEi9vIswyb85Z2SIF 95th Ananda-Nalanda Battle of the Maroons today Historic first-ever 3-day encounter]</ref> encounter, starting from 2025 (the 95th in the series - the match was not played in 1943, 1944,1945, and 1948 due to World War II, with matches being held at the Singhalese Sports Club grounds). Nalanda is the current holder of the trophy, having won it in 2022 under the leadership of Dineth Samaraweera.<ref name="themorning">{{cite web|url=https://www.themorning.lk/articles/ztooEi9vIswyb85Z2SIF|title=95th Ananda-Nalanda Battle of the Maroons today|website=The Morning|date=28 February 2025 |access-date=2025-05-15}}</ref><ref>[https://www.ft.lk/sports/Nalanda-College-secures-Dr-N-M-Perera-Challenge-Trophy-after-69-years/23-737359 Nalanda College secures Dr. N.M. Perera Challenge Trophy after 69 years]</ref> The first Battle of the Maroons was played in 1925, and B.S. Perera led Nalandians <ref>[https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2013/02/24/spo01.asp Ananda and Nalanda longing for outright win]</ref> while N M Perera led Anandians. Nalanda won the inaugural contest.<ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/070318/Sports/sp202.html Dr. N.M. a cricket icon of Ananda]</ref> Sri Lanka's first Test cricket captain, Bandula Warnapura, an alumnus of the college,<ref>[https://www.themorning.lk/articles/PSPSX67wTn4BIhh7s0Dl Nalanda Vikings champs at Bandula Warnapura Memorial Trophy 2024]</ref><ref>[https://www.ft.lk/sports/Old-Nalandians-Sports-Club-to-host-inaugural-Bandula-Warnapura-Memorial-Lecture/23-768845 Old Nalandians’ Sports Club to host inaugural Bandula Warnapura Memorial Lecture]</ref> while Arjuna Ranatunga, who captained the Sri Lankans in the World Cup victory in 1996, was also an alumnus.<ref>[https://www.themorning.lk/articles/6NvE65pqUJ6aUt3EKIzl Ananda-Nalanda to battle it out at 93rd Battle of the Maroons]</ref> In 2025, the 95th encounter ended in a draw.<ref>[https://ceylontoday.lk/2025/03/02/ananda-nalanda-95th-battle-of-the-maroons-annual-cricket-encounter-ends-in-a-draw/ Ananda-Nalanda 95th ‘Battle of the Maroons’ Annual Cricket Encounter Ends in a Draw]</ref> The Battle of the Maroons 48th one-day encounter was played in 2025, and was abandoned due to rain.<ref>[https://www.dailymirror.lk/caption-story/Maroons-limited-over-ends-in-no-decision/110-304484 Battle of the Maroons 48th one day encounter abandoned due to rain]</ref> In 1951, Stanley Jayasinghe became the first Nalandian<ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/210411/sports/stanley-jayasinghe-honoured-by-onsc-439554.html Stanley Jayasinghe honoured by ONSC]</ref> to represent the All Ceylon Cricket Team while still being a schoolboy playing against Pakistan in Pakistan.<ref>[https://island.lk/stanley-jayasinghe-the-nonagenarian-going-strong/ Stanley Jayasinghe the nonagenarian: going strong]</ref>
The match is contested for the Dr. N. M. Perera Memorial Trophy.<ref>[https://ceylontoday.lk/2023/02/18/nalanda-out-to-retain-dr-n-m-perera-trophy/ Nalanda out to retain Dr. N.M. Perera Trophy]</ref> The one-day 50-over match is played for the P de S Kularatne trophy.<ref>[https://www.themorning.lk/articles/0QJlmK61GQsO2J4ayI4m Nalandians retain the P de S Kularatne Challenge Trophy as rain washout 2nd innings]</ref>
====Nalanda vs Trinity==== {{Main|Mahela-Sanga Challenge Trophy}}
The annual cricket match between Nalanda College, Colombo, and Trinity College, Kandy, was played for the Mahela-Sanga Trophy.
===Water polo=== Nalanda plays its annual water polo encounter<ref>[https://www.thepapare.com/all-set-for-a-thrilling-royal-nalanda-annual-water-polo-encounter/ All set for a thrilling Royal-Nalanda Annual Water Polo Encounter]</ref> with Royal College, Colombo for the Royal-Nalanda Challenge Shield.<ref>[https://www.ft.lk/sports/Royal-College-Water-Polo-Team-of-2024-A-legacy-of-excellence/23-771356 Royal College Water Polo Team of 2024: A legacy of excellence]</ref> The inaugural encounter was played in 2017.<ref>[https://sundaytimes.lk/online/sport/waterpolo-royal-made-to-fight-before-beating-nalanda/3-1022779 Waterpolo: Royal made to fight before beating Nalanda]</ref><ref>[https://sundaytimes.lk/online/sport/water-polo-royal-beat-nalanda-to-win-annual-encounter/3-1048782 Water Polo: Royal beat Nalanda to win annual encounter]</ref><ref>[https://ceylontoday.lk/2024/11/19/the-legendary-undefeated-water-polo-team-of-royal-college/ The legendary undefeated Water Polo Team of Royal College]</ref><ref>[https://royalcollege.lk/sports/water-polo/the-season/ The season]</ref>
===Golf=== Nalanda College plays its annual Golf tourney with Ananda College Colombo at Royal Colombo Golf Club.<ref>[https://www.ft.lk/sports/Cricketers-Mahela--Mohan-excel-at-inaugural-Ananda-Nalanda-golf-tourney/23-746993 Cricketers Mahela, Mohan excel at inaugural Ananda-Nalanda golf tourney]</ref><ref>[https://www.ft.lk/sports/Inaugural-Ananda-Nalanda-golf-Big-Match-a-resounding-success/23-747207 Inaugural Ananda-Nalanda golf ‘Big Match’ a resounding success]</ref>
==Clubs and societies== {{div col|colwidth=27em}} * Aeronautical Society<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2012/11/13/fea20.asp|title=Geared for take off|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref> * Buddhist Association<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ncba.nalanda.sch.lk/ |title=Nalanda College Buddhist Association Official Site |access-date=25 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120304212048/http://ncba.nalanda.sch.lk/ |archive-date=4 March 2012 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Communication Unit<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/ |title=Nalanda College Communication Unit Official Site |access-date=25 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222232848/http://nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/ |archive-date=22 February 2012 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Computer Society<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.csnclabs.com/ |title=Nalanda College Computer Society Official Site |access-date=25 February 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120228073718/http://csnclabs.com/ |archive-date=28 February 2012}}</ref> * Commerce Society<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://casrilanka.com/casl/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=759:nalanda-college-bags-ca-sri-lanka-challenge-trophy-at-the-royal-college-quiz-competition&catid=50:general&Itemid=156|title=Nalanda College bags CA Sri Lanka Challenge Trophy at the Royal College Quiz Competition|website=casrilanka.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrAiZ-qT6jA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907232711/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrAiZ-qT6jA |url-status=dead |archive-date=7 September 2023 |title=YouTube|website=www.youtube.com}}</ref> * Dancing Circle<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day |title=Sambhasha (Media Day) |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714190826/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day |archive-date=14 July 2014 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Commerce Society<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/ADVERTO24 |title=Adverto (commerce Day) |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714190826/http://www.nccu.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/projects/sambhasha-media-day |archive-date=14 July 2014 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref> * English Debating Society<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2008/02/01/fea20.asp|title=Features {{pipe}} Online edition of Daily News - Lakehouse Newspapers|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref> * English Drama Circle<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sundaytimes.lk/071104/Plus/plus00023.html|title=The making of Alan}}</ref> * Interact Club<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.icnc.nalanda.sch.lk/ |title=Nalanda College Interact Club Official Site |access-date=25 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130727015430/http://www.icnc.nalanda.sch.lk/ |archive-date=27 July 2013 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Leo Club<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Nonprofit-Organization/217491078283060/|title=Leo Club of Nalanda College|website=www.facebook.com}}{{unreliable source?|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Life Saving Club<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2007/07/21/fea20-1.asp|title=Features {{pipe}} Online edition of Daily News - Lakehouse Newspapers|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://archives.dailynews.lk/2010/04/23/spo28.asp|title=Sri Lanka Sports News {{pipe}} Online edition of Daily News - Lakehouse Newspapers|website=archives.dailynews.lk}}</ref> * Prefects Guild<ref>{{cite web|url=http://npas.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/gallerynpas/2012/new-board-of-prefects-guild|title=New Board of Prefects' Guild|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140614131451/http://npas.nalanda.sch.lk/index.php/gallerynpas/2012/new-board-of-prefects-guild|archive-date=14 June 2014}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.476620409026982.103523.448990811789942&type=3|title=Nalanda College Junior Prefects' Guild Secretariat {{pipe}} Facebook|website=www.facebook.com}}{{unreliable source?|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Photographic & Art Society<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.npas.nalanda.sch.lk/ |title=Photographic & Art Society Official Site |access-date=25 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121113024707/http://www.npas.nalanda.sch.lk/ |archive-date=13 November 2012 |url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Science Society<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/ncsslk/|title=Nalanda College Science Society|website=www.facebook.com}}{{unreliable source?|date=July 2025}}</ref> * Scouts Troop<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nalandascouts.org/ |title=32nd Colombo Nalanda College Scout Troop Official Site |access-date=1 March 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110920092039/http://www.nalandascouts.org/ |archive-date=20 September 2011}}</ref> * Western Music Association<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Nonprofit-Organization/157547970931430/|title=Western Music Association of Nalanda College|website=www.facebook.com}}{{unreliable source?|date=July 2025}}</ref> {{div col end}}
==Principals== The college principals are appointed by the Ministry of Education Sri Lanka.<ref>[https://www.dailymirror.lk/news-features/The-Principal-par-excellence/131-224675 The Principal par excellence Sugunadasa Athukorale]</ref>
{| class="wikitable" style="font-size: 95%;" !Name !Assumed office !Left office !Notes |- |L. H. Mettananda |{{center|1925}} |{{center|1926}} |Ananda Principal Patrick de Silva Kularatne's unofficial appointment as Principal of Ananda's Branch<ref>[https://www.dailymirror.lk/news-features/Kularatnes-Nalanda-Completes-98/131-270601 Kularatne’s Nalanda Completes 98]</ref> |- |Gunapala Malalasekara |{{center|1926}} |{{center|1927}} |First Officially Registered Principal under new independent institution named Nalanda<ref>[https://edu.dailymirror.lk/home/recommended/1222 Nalanda’s First Principal -Dr. Gunapala Malalsekera Dr Gunapala Malalasekera’s 50th death anniversary falls on 23rd April 2023]</ref> Academic, scholar and diplomat known for his Malalasekara English-Sinhala Dictionary<ref>[https://www.vijithayapa.com/product/view/31735 Malalasekera English - Sinhala Dictionary (New Edition)]</ref> |- |G. K. W. Perera |{{center|1927}} |{{center|1928}} |Ceylonese lawyer, educator, politician and diplomat |- |J. N. Jinendradasa |{{center|1928}} |{{center|1946}} |<ref>[https://archives1.dailynews.lk/2016/02/22/features/appreciations-22-02-2016 A great guru, caring husband, devoted father]</ref> |- |D. C. Lowris |{{center|1947}} |{{center|1952}} |<ref>[https://www.themorning.lk/articles/126680 Nonagenarian and legend that is Stanley Jayasinghe]</ref> |- |M. de S. Jayarathne |{{center|1953}} |{{center|1955}} |<ref>[https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/sunday-times-sri-lanka/20131103/283476433961621 Character illuminates wisdom]</ref> |- |M. W. Karunananda |{{center|1956}} |{{center|1962}} |<ref>[https://lankasara.com/life/reminiscences-of-a-legend-veteran-commentator-palitha-perera-speaks-about-bandula-warnapura/ Reminiscences of a legend]</ref> |- |K. M. W. Kuruppu |{{center|1962}} |{{center|1963}} |<ref>[https://archives.dailynews.lk/2003/07/12/obits.html Obituary - Kuruppu Winefred]</ref> |- |D. J. Edirisinghe |{{center|1963}} |{{center|1964}} |<ref>[https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/sunday-times-sri-lanka/20131103/283476433961621 Character illuminates wisdom at Nalanda]</ref> |- |Gunapala Wickramaratne |{{center|1964}} |{{center|1969}} |Later became Commissioner of Examinations <ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/180902/plus/he-ushered-in-the-golden-age-of-nalanda-college-309206.html He ushered in the Golden Age of Nalanda College]</ref><ref>[https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/daily-mirror-sri-lanka/20180806/282471414678191 Former educationist Gunapala Wickramaratne passes away]</ref> |- |Sugunadasa Athukorala |{{center|1969}} |{{center|1982}} |<ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/061203/Plus/03_12_2006Pls9.html Sir you are gone, but not forgotten Sugunadasa Athukorala]</ref><ref>[https://island.lk/sugunadasa-athukorale-principal-par-excellence/ Sugunadasa Athukorale: Principal Par excellence]</ref><ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/061203/Plus/03_12_2006Pls9.html Sugunadasa Athukorala]</ref> |- |Dharma Gunasinghe |{{center|1982}} |{{center|1990}} |<ref>[https://archives1.dailynews.lk/2020/01/23/local/209183/dharma-gunasinghe-passes-away Dharma Gunasinghe passes away]</ref><ref>[https://ceylontoday.lk/2024/09/21/foundation-laid-for-nalanda-college-innovation-centre/ Foundation laid for Nalanda College Innovation Centre]</ref> |- |D. G. Sumanasekera |{{center|1990}} |{{center|1994}} |Later became first Principal of Vidura College Colombo<ref>[https://island.lk/vidura-college-beats-thurstan-in-top-class-debate/ http://www.viduracollege.com/info/Principal]</ref> |- |Edward Ranasinghe |{{center|1994}} |{{center|1999}} |<ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/221030/education/nalandians-celebrate-silver-jubilee-of-guru-upahara-500107.html Nalandians celebrate Silver Jubilee of ‘Guru Upahara’]</ref> |- |Hemantha Premathilaka |{{center|1999}} |{{center|2010}} |Later became Additional Secretary Ministry of Education <ref>[https://www.ft.lk/education/Dialog-and-Ministry-of-Education-continue-to-facilitate-equitable-access-to-education-in-Sri-Lanka/10515-752485 Dialog and Ministry of Education continue to facilitate equitable access to education in Sri Lanka]</ref> |- |Ranjith Jayasundara |{{center|2010}} |{{center|2017}} |<ref>[https://sundaytimes.lk/100627/Education/ed04.html Programme to make Nalanda College the most beautiful school in the island]</ref> |- |Thilak Waththuhewa |{{center|2017}} |{{center|2020}} |<ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/221009/sports/evening-of-appreciation-by-nalanda-pca-498058.html ‘Evening of Appreciation’ by Nalanda PCA]</ref> |- |H. Maheshika Wijerathne (acting Principal) |{{center|2020}} |{{center|2021}} |<ref>[https://www.dailynews.lk/2023/07/19/local/37136/new-principal-at-nalanda-college/ New principal at Nalanda College]</ref><ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/220925/sports/nalandas-grand-felicitation-to-cricket-team-for-breaking-hoodoo-of-seven-decades-496637.html Nalanda’s grand felicitation to cricket team for breaking hoodoo of seven decades]</ref> |- |Thilak Waththuhewa |{{center|2021}} |{{center|2023}} |Later became Principal of Royal College, Colombo<ref>[https://royalcollege.lk/2023/08/a-heartfelt-welcome-to-mr-thilak-waththuhewa-the-new-principal-of-royal-college/ A Heartfelt Welcome to Mr. Thilak Waththuhewa, the New Principal of Royal College]</ref> |- |Iran Champika de Silva |{{center|2023}} |{{center|Present}} |<ref>[https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240602/education/nalanda-oba-elects-new-office-bearers-558699.html Nalanda OBA elects new office bearers]</ref> |- |}
==Notable staff== thumb|Statue of Balangoda Ananda Maitreya Thero {| class="wikitable" |+ !Name !Notes |- |Balangoda Ananda Maitreya Mahanayake Thero |Vice Chancellor of Vidyodaya University, Chancellor of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka |- |Polwatte Buddhadatta Mahanayake Thero |Professor of Buddhist philosophy at Vidyalankara University |- |S. Mahinda Thero |Poet, author, and participated in the Sri Lankan independence movement |- |Dr A. T. Ariyaratne |Founder of the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement |- |Sagara Palansuriya |Poet, teacher and Member of Parliament |- |Edward Jayakody |Musician, singer, composer, and occasional actor |- |Premasara Epasinghe |Cricket commentator and journalist |- |S. Panibharatha |Dancer and choreographer |- |Siri Perera |Criminal lawyer, former Sri Lanka High Commissioner |- |Somalatha Subasinghe |Actress, playwright, theatre director |- |}
==Notable alumni== {{Main|List of Nalanda College Colombo Alumni (Old Nalandians)}}
{{See also|Category:Alumni of Nalanda College, Colombo}}
Past students who have studied at Nalanda College Colombo are referred to as Old Nalandians.
==War Memorial and remembrance== thumb|Nalanda College War Memorial Statue Each year, students and alumni commemorate the loss of 41 alumni who died in the Sri Lankan civil war.<ref>(On 2 August)[https://archive.today/20120728164834/http://www.dailynews.lk/2009/09/10/sec04.asp Ranaviru Upahara at Nalanda College by Sarath MALALASEKERA]</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/07/31/news60.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100805082401/http://www.dailynews.lk/2010/07/31/news60.asp|title=Nalanda Ranaviru Upahara Ulela|archive-date=5 August 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nalandajunioroba.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=84:ranaviru-upahara-highlights&catid=13:front-page-news-items|title=Ranaviru Upahara Highlights|author=Administrator|work=Nalanda Junior Old Boys Association|access-date=6 March 2012|archive-date=4 April 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120404174807/http://www.nalandajunioroba.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=84:ranaviru-upahara-highlights&catid=13:front-page-news-items|url-status=dead}}{{primary source inline|date=July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nalandajunioroba.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=83:ranaviru-upahara-2011&catid=13:front-page-news-items|title=Ranaviru Upahara 2011|author=Administrator|work=Nalanda Junior Old Boys Association|access-date=6 March 2012|archive-date=22 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322081926/http://www.nalandajunioroba.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=83:ranaviru-upahara-2011&catid=13:front-page-news-items|url-status=dead}}</ref> A war memorial is situated between the main oldest buildings of the college.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nalandajunioroba.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=84:ranaviru-upahara-highlights&catid=13:front-page-news-items#g_84_2|title=Ranaviru Upahara Highlights|author=Administrator|work=Nalanda Junior Old Boys Association|access-date=7 March 2012|archive-date=4 April 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120404174807/http://www.nalandajunioroba.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=84:ranaviru-upahara-highlights&catid=13:front-page-news-items#g_84_2|url-status=dead}}</ref>{{Failed verification|date=May 2026}}
==Nalanda College Junior Old Boys' Association== {{Main|Future Minds}} The association serves the alumni of the college. Its objective is to promote the interests of the college and its past and present students by fostering relationships among alumni and with their alma mater. Each year, the union organises events such as Future Minds, Nalanda Walk, the Olcott Memorial Old Boys' Cricket Tourney, and the Ranaviru Upahara.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archives.sundayobserver.lk/2007/12/02/spo10.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120210181449/http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2007/12/02/spo10.asp|title=Olcott Memorial old boys cricket tourney by Upananda Jayasundera|url-status=live|archive-date=10 February 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.dailynews.lk/2002/10/18/new29.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050426235632/http://www.dailynews.lk/2002/10/18/new29.html|title=Carnival to raise funds for Nalanda sports complex by Asanga Warnakulasuriya|archive-date=26 April 2005}}</ref>
==See also== * Education in Sri Lanka
==References== {{Reflist}}
==External links== * [https://www.nalandacollege.lk/ Nalanda College Colombo Sri Lanka] * [http://www.nalandacollege.info/ The Digital Education Project of Nalanda College] * [https://www.njoba.lk/ Nalanda Junior Old Boys' Association] * [http://www.nalandaoba.lk/ Nalanda College Old Boys' Association] * [https://www.onsc.lk/ Old Nalandians Sports Club] * [http://www.battleofthemaroons.lk/ Battle of the Maroons] * [http://www.futureminds.lk/ Future Minds]
{{Nalanda College, Colombo}}
{{Coord|6|55|20|N|79|52|29|E|display=title}}
Category:Nalanda College, Colombo Category:1925 establishments in Ceylon Category:Boys' schools in Sri Lanka Category:Educational institutions established in 1925 Category:National schools in Sri Lanka