RANAVIRU UPAHARA - 2025

The war heroes of Ananda College who sacrificed their lives during the Eelam War, defending the nation's territorial integrity and sovereignty, are commemorated with pride.

A special War Heroes' Commemoration Ceremony was held at Ananda College on Monday, May 19th, in front of the college's War Hero Memorial. The event took place in the presence of senior officers of the tri-forces and the Sri Lanka Police. Principal Mr. D.M.LP. Dissanayake, former Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne, Lieutenant General Jagath Dias, and Senior DIG Ajith Rohana graced the occasion as chief guests. This prestigious event was organised by the Alumni Association under the guidance of Mr. Dissanayake. The keynote address was delivered by Senior DIG Ajith Rohana.

Second Lieutenant Vaas Gunawardena, the first martyr of the Eelam War, was an Anandian. It is a matter of great pride that many of the senior military leaders who led the final battle to eradicate terrorism three decades later were also products of Ananda College. Senior DIG Ajith Rohana emphasised that he would always honour the brave Anandians who laid down their lives for the country's unity and freedom.

He made special mention of Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the Defence Secretary at the time; Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka, Commander of the Army; Marshal of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda, Commander of the Navy, as well as General Kamal Gunaratne, Major General Shavendra Silva, Major General Chagi Gallage, Major General Prasanna de Silva, and IGP Mahinda Balasuriya, who all played vital roles in leading the war effort. He expressed his gratitude to all the war heroes who led from the front.

The War Heroes Tribute Ceremony was attended by the Principal, the College Management Board, the teaching staff, alumni serving in the armed forces and police, and a large number of current and former students.