The Social Activities Sub –Committee of the CBO Brch. Invites everyone to participate in the Sinhala Avurudu Celebrations.VENUE : RANMAL HOTEL, PANADURA, DATE : SUNDAY 04TH MAY 2008, TIME : FROM 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M. Come with your family and enjoy yourself. Plenty of games and sweets!

Dishan Bandaranayake, Old Rajan died on Sunday 20th at Nuwara Eliya during the Motor races. He was 38 years; had wife and two daughters and lived on Anniewatte, Kandy. He was an up and coming businessman running his establishment at at Kiribathkumbura.His death occurred when he was moving fast on the track in his Mini Austin Seven-1000cc when he knocked on to a tree negotiating the bend near the Baduula Road Junction.He took to motor racing 4 years ago. He excelled in Mini Austin racing and was a champion driver winning races at Pannala, Eliyakanda, Mahagastota, Radella, Kotmale hill climb and Fox Hill.Dilshan once held a record in 2006 in Mini 1000cc in 44.32 secs. He was also the founder of the Kandy 4x4 Motor racing Club.

Rajans played good Ruby even though lost to St.Peter's (46-0) and boys faced real tough and it's expected and St.Peters are last 2years Leauge Champions in "A" Division and Rajans just entered "A" Division and this is their first match. Spectators were found that although Rajans show their skills.Mr. Indika De Zoysa and ORRFA arranged a grand evening with Dinner at CH&FC after the match. Players, Old Rajans and College Teachers, Mr Asoka Senani Hewage (DS Principle) were participated this warn get-together.

Chamara Kapugedera has shown his colours. He missed his maiden century by just 5 runs in Trinidad. But rescued Sri Lanka from ignominy. This was however his highest score I his ODI career so far. He salvaged a gone case from 49 to end up at 235 for 7 at the last ODI against Wes Indies at Port of Spain on Thursday. Chamara hammered 3sixes and seven fours in his knock. We wish more strength to his wrists

G.B. Yatigammana, retired DIG passed away last week at Kandy. Yati was the College Cricket captain in the year 1955. He was known for the gallant century he made against the star studded Ananda at Campbel Place that year, when Ananda side was in full cry. It was not very often that a Kandy player scored a century against a Colombo side at that time, and more so against the formidable Ananda. Yatgammana though small made, was a stylish stroke maker. A pleasure to watch.

Dharmaraja vs. Royal annual encounter was played on the Preadeniya campus grounds on 29th and 30th Dec. Match was drawn, Royal leading on the 1st innings. ->

Neil Priyantha Karunaratne, editor of ‘Hasuna’, ceremonially launched his first book ‘Path of the Sri Lankan Tele Drama’, today (18th Jan.) at the National Library & Documentation Centre Auditorium. The occasion was sponsored by the Madhya Sansadaya of the Old Rajans. Dr. D.B. Nihalsinghe, the Sinhala tele-film maker was the Chief Guest. Amarasiri Kalansuriya, Old Rajan and Devika Mihirani, the two first ever tele-film stars of Sri Lanka who starred in Nihalsinghe’s Dimuthu Muthu in 1985, were in attendance. In fact Dr. Nihalsinghe mentioned in his speech that they were the first ever tele-film actors in the entire South Asia, as his film was the first tele-film in this region. So, here is another first by a Rajan! That is not all. The story of the film too was written by an Old Rajan - the late Dharmasri Munasinghe. He was awarded a ‘Dharmaraja Pranama Prasadini’ at an annual Dharmaraja Kala Ullela, before his death.

The Annual General Meeting of the Colombo Branch of Dharamaraja College OBU will be held on Sunday 27th at the 80 Club, Colombo 7, commencing 10 a.m. The new office bearers for 2008 will be elected to office at this meeting. There will be the usual fellowship lunch after the meeting. ->

A mausoleum is erected by the Dharmaraja College Past Cadets Union to commemorate their heroes of war who have paid the supreme sacrifice in the service of the country during the last 120 years’ history of the school. It will be ceremonially declared open on the 11th morning this month at 10 a.m, on the mist covered hill of Lake View.The earliest Rajan to give his life, bringing honour to his country was Flt. Lt. A.F. Kularatne, the son of Mr. P. de S Kularatne their former Principal, who in 1942 in World War II went Missing in Action after a running a series of daring successive bombing raids into Germany, flying for the British Royal Air Force. His exploits in the European Theatre were legendary. Flt. Lt. Kularatne was the sergeant of the Dharmaraja cadet platoon that won the coveted De Soyza Cup the first time they attended a Cadet Camp in 1934. His feats on the cricket field were equally legendary, still being spoken of by some of the surviving elder Old Rajans.

Ven. Bogoda Seelawimala hailing from Bogoda, a remote village in the Kurunegala District, is appointed Head Monk of the London Buddhist Vihare. Prior to this, he was a resident monk at the same temple.This appointment is made by the Anagarika Dharmapala Trust which is responsible for the management of this Vihare. The position fell vacant on the demise of the most Ven. Dr. Medagama Vajiragnana Thera.Before proceeding to London, Ven. Bogoda Seelawimala Thera has been a teacher at Dharmaraja College.Graduating from the University of Peradeniya in 1971, he had obtained an M.A. degree, studying under Professor Leslie Gunawardhana, on the subject: influence of Hinduism on Buddhism.Having learnt meditation under the well known meditation master, the late Godwin Samararatne of Nillambe, who was himself an Old Rajan, Ven, Seelawimala began teaching meditation to Britishers.Later he trained under most Ven. Dr. Henepola Gunarathana Nayaka Thera at his Meditation Center in West Virginia, He serves as the Buddhist Chaplain of the West Middlesex University Hospital and at the Eieling Hospital, as well as the secretary of the Sri Lankan Sangha Council in Britain.We wish him success in this important position. We hope that his stint with us at Dharmaraja, as a teacher, would stand him in good stead.

A mausoleum is erected by the Dharmaraja College Past Cadets Union, to commemorate their heroes of war who have paid the supreme sacrifice in the service of the country, during the last 120 years’ history of the school. It will be ceremonially declared open on the 11th morning this month at 10 a.m, on the mist covered hill of Lake View.The earliest Rajan to give his life, bringing honour to his country was Flt. Lt. A.F. Kularatne, the son of Mr. P. de S Kularatne their former Principal, who in 1942 in World War II went Missing in Action after a running a series of daring successive bombing raids into Germany, flying for the British Royal Air Force. His exploits in the European Theatre were legendary. Flt. Lt. Kularatne was the sergeant of the Dharmaraja cadet platoon that won the coveted De Soyza Cup the first time they attended a Cadet Camp in 1934. His feats on the cricket field were equally legendary, still being talked of by some of the surviving elder Old Rajans.He was followed by Douggie Fernando, cricketer, who gave his life for the RCy. Force in the 1971 Insurgency. Douggie opened batting for Dharmaraja in 1957,’58 and had a couple of centuries to his credit.

Prof. H.P.M. Gunasena, Former Professor of Agriculture & Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, was honoured with an Honorary degree of Dr. of Science by the Sabaragamuwa University, Belihul Oya on 17th December. This was really the third time he was conferred this Honorary degree. It was done previously by Rajarata and Wayamba Universities.It is not known who the first Rajan to be honoured with a Dr. Litt. Degree. It is doubtless Dr. Ananda Guruge, one time head of the UNESCO in Paris, who still holds the record to have scored the highest aggregate marks at the Final Examination at the Peradeniya University, way down in the late ‘Forties/early ‘Fifties. Perhaps, a reader more knowledgeable may correct us. Prof. Gunasena is a world authority on rice and is consulted regularly by the governments of Philippines and several other countries. He is presently the Advisor to the Agro Forestry Development International Research Centre and travels often to Nairobi for his work there. He has innumerable publication to his credit, both in Sinhala & English on Agriculture and Forestry and allied subjects.Not to be out done, the Colombo Branch of OBU honoured him at their Annual Dinner in 2004, ahead of all these universities....->

Sad news about the death of Deshabandu Dr. M.H.G. Siriwardena, our Patron, came to be known only when the obituary notice appeared in the Daily News of 14th September 2007, long after the cremation on 4th September. It has been his wish, before he passed away, that the funeral should be confined only to the family members.Another wish of his was that our Union should be provided with Rs.100,000/= to award a Prize annually at the College Prize Giving, to the Best All Rounder. ( Mrs Siriwardena has already honoured this wish ).A THROUGH-BRED RAJAN : Dr Siriwardena, son of late Muhandiram M.H.P.K.Siriwardena of Devinuwara, was admitted to Dharmaraja on a scholarship offered by Mr. P. de.S Kularatne, the Principal of Dharmaraja(1932 - 36).He was in the Hostel right through his school career, till he joined the University Medical College along with his school mate, the late Dr. J.B.Wedanda, the famous surgeon.At school, he had an all round education performing well in sports activities in addition to his brilliant academic record. In athletics, he excelled in the Putt Shot event. He was a member of the 1st X1 Cricket Team in 1938 and 1939. He was recognized as a dependable batsman. He won the proficiency prizes at various levels and was the winner of the open prize for English Literature in 1940. FIRST RAJAN FRCS : Dr.Siriwardena was the first F.R.C.S. amongst the Rajans. He actively served in his profession until he breathed his last.He was a devoted and loyal Old Rajan. He served a period as the President of our Colombo Union and was a Patron since, till his demise.He generously made financial contributions for the College and O.B.U. activities. He was always present at our A.G.M. and at the Annual Dinner, he took special interest to get acquainted with the new comers and encouraged them to be loyal to the College. His presence was a great source of inspiration and encouragement to the others. There were many an occasionson when our Executive Committee was entertained to Dinner at his residence at Kollupitiya. THE MAN : He displayed great human qualities in his medical profession. His modesty and desire not to cause inconvenience to others was well displayed by his wish to have a private funeral. Many Old Rajans and friends were fortunate to have received free medical treatment from him. DESHABANDHU AWARD : In recognition of his services to the Country, the State honoured him with the DESHABANDU award. “ Dharmaraja Prabhumani” The memories of his association, the good deeds and his genial ways will be remembered for ever. May he attain the supreme bliss of Nirvana.

Rajan Ruggerite, Radhika Hettiarachchi was a prominent member of the 9 member Sri Lanka Team at the Rugby Asiad that concluded at the CR & FC Grounds on Saturday 10th October where Sri Lanka lost to Khazakastan 17-24 in the Singer final.The team comprised of members of the following schools. Kingswood - 2, Issipathana - 2, Dharmaraja - 1, St.Anthony’s - 1, Royal - 1, Science College Mtl. – 1, St. Mary’s - 1, Radhika represents CR & FC. The position he plays is Full Back.

This year’s tournament started off today at Nalanda College grounds. The tournament commenced this morning (07/12/2007) at 8.30 am with the flag hoisting ceremony.The first leg of the tournament was the Six a Side competition among the present boys. By the end of the day, Rajans lost to Nalanda in the Final. On their way to Final, Rajans beat Dharmashoka , Mahinda, and Ananda.Tomorrow (08/12/2007), the Old Boys’ tournament will be held. This will be followed by a dinner. at the Old Wesleyites’ Club. Dinner tickets are priced at Rs. 600/= pre head. All Rajans are welcome.

Following are the new Office Bearers of the Rajans’ Australia Branch, Melbourne. President: Chandana Ekanayake,Jt. Secretaries: Upendra Navaratne,Tilak Wijewardane, Jt. Treasurers: Rohitha Dissanayake,Gemunu Senaratne. Their activities this year included the following: 1/ Held a BBQ Get-together at the Churchill Park. 2/Had a limited overs cricket match with Kingswood Old Boys, for a second year. Rajans won. 3 / Organized an Alms giving at the Keysborough Buddhist temple, to mark the Founders’ Day on 30th June. 4 /Held a Joint Dinner with Old Kingswoodians. Rajans have also set up a joint beat group, with Kingswoodians called “ The Marroons”

A foundation stone to construct a war memorial for the Rajans, who sacrificed their life for the country, was ceremonially laid by Major (Rtd.) W.M. Weerasuriya on 27th July at 9.16 a.m. at College. The venue was, under the mango tree below the Principal’s bungalow.

All Island inter-club hockey tournament organized by Seeth Devi Sports club at the Bogambars Stadium, Kandy. At this tournament, the Old Rajans’ Sports Club became the Bowl Champions. They beat Old Trinitians’ Sports Club 2-0 at the Bowl Finals.

On19th October, after the College Prize Giving, Principal summoned a meeting of the Old Boys comprising Jagath Samarasinghe, President OBU, S.B. Herath,President CBO Brch. MR. A.P. Gunaratne, Former Principal, Mr. D.M. Dharmatillake Treasurer CBO Brch.and Mr. Gamini Gunawardane Vice President CBO Brch. Mr. Sarath Matharaarchchi, POG and several other distinguished Old Boys and Masters In Charge of Rugby,Soccer, Hockey and Athletics and Athletics, to discuss the need to build a an alternative grounds for Rugby, Soccer, Hockey and Athletics for the students of Dharmaraja.

The 13th ‘Annual Kala Ullela’ of Dharmaraja College 2007, which has become a prestigious event in Arts calendar in the country, was held with the usual glitter and sparkle on 26th October commencing sharp at 2 p.m., at the College Auditorium.The chief Guest for the occasion was Prof. Mudyanse Dissanayake, Head of the Aesthetics University, Kelaniya. The other National Level award winners were, Prof.Mudiyanse Dissanayake, Edwin Ariyadasa, Namel and Malini Weeramuni, film director Jayantha Chandrasiri, Kandyan dance exponent and dancing Guru, Sirisena Rajapaksa, and also Chitra Katha editor. Daya Rajapaksa.The Old Rajans who were honoured for their contribution to Arts were:Media man, Muditha Wijesundara of Dutu Nodutu fame, film producer Mithraratne Herath, , producer of Dharmasena Pathiraja’s film AHAS GAWWA, journalst Harsha B. Abeykoon, and Mr. D.B. Herath, founder of the Kala Ullela who is now retired.The young Rajans who were honoured for their enthusiasm in promoting the Arts at the College were:P.B. Ellangasinghe Award - Lahiru Amarasuriya (Music), H.A. Karunaratne Award - B.M.M.P. Basnayake (Art),Premadasa Weliange Award – I.C. Samarakkody (Dancing),Piyasena Gunathilake award – A.M.K.B. Adhikari (Literature),Prof. Ediriweera Sarchchandra Award – C.S. Thiyamabarawatte (Drama),B.M.K.B. Basnayake Award – A.D.K. Kalinga (Photography)

Work as started and concreting the pool floor is in progress, under the suppervision of a commettee headed by Old Boy Dr. Udaya Dissanayake of Engineering Faculty,Peradeniya University.

For ferther details please check this link http://content-sl.cricinfo.com/srilanka/content/story/289722.html

Eng. Kamalanath Samarakoon - an Old Rajan, was the recipient of the National Science and Technology Award for the year 2006, under the category, Quality Improvement of Products, Process and Services.Organized by the Ministry of Science and Technology and National Science Foundation, he was presented this award by His Excellency the President, at an award ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat on 10th November 2006.This award was made for his research and development of “Automatic Data Acquisition System for Process Monitoring and Diagnostics” which is installed in power stations along the Mahaweli Ganga that do not have such automatic systems. Prior to that, Kamalanath won the prestigious Wimalasurendra award from IESL (Sri Lanka Instituite of Engineers) in year 2000. This is an award generally made in recognition of a life times’ work of an engineer. Kamalanath won it at the age of 42! This is not all. In 1999, he won the “Award for Excellent Achievement” from Center for International Corporation for Computerization (CICC), Japan. It was the award for the best student of the training program conducted by CICC.He is a Chartered Member of Institution of Engineers (Sri Lanka), and Engineering Council (UK). He is also a member of Institution of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, USA (IEEE), and Institution of Engineering Technologists, UK (IET - former IEE).

This year’s Founder’s Day oration of Dharmaraja College was delivered by Mr. Harischandra Wijetunga at the College Auditorium at 9 a.m. on 3rd July. This is the 119th Anniversary of Dahrmaraja, started on 39th June 1887. Mr. Wijetunga addressed the students of the Upper and the Middle Schools. The meeting was presided by Principal Mr. S.M. Keerthiratne and attended by the Collegiate Staff. Mr. Wijetunga’s topic was “ The National Role of the students Dharmaraja”.

There are so many old Rajans living and working in MILANO. They have formed into a Old Rajans group under the leadership of Mahinda Godathale, to help thier alma mater. Their address is as follows. 36, Via felice Casati, 20124, Milano, Italy. They can be contacted at Tel. 00 3902-6690227, 335-1640181. Fax. 003902483766638. Email. oldrajansmilano@tiscali.it.