Shareable story

The Main Hall Story

A short journey through the Hall that shaped generations of Nayakenz, and the Guardians who will restore it.

Become a Guardian
  1. 01 Past
  2. 02 Condition
  3. 03 Plan
  4. 04 How Guardians help
01

Past

Heart of College life since 1945

For generations of Nayakenz, the Main Hall has been at the heart of Bandaranayake College. Since its completion in 1945, it has hosted assemblies, prize-giving ceremonies, cultural events, examinations and countless occasions that brought students, teachers and alumni together.

More than a building, it holds shared memories, traditions and the spirit of College: nearly eighty years under one roof.

Proposed Main Hall front with College crest
The Hall at the centre of College identity.
02

Condition

Why restoration is essential

After nearly eighty years of continuous use, the Main Hall now needs comprehensive restoration to remain safe, functional and structurally sound. Regular maintenance has preserved the building over time, but age, weather exposure and modern operational demands call for a fuller programme, protecting heritage character while meeting today’s safety standards.

  • Age and weather exposure
  • Structural soundness and services beyond routine maintenance
  • Electrical, fire, safety and accessibility upgrades
  • Heritage finishes and architectural character to protect
03

Plan

RESTORING THE PRIDE

Led by the Past Pupils’ Association, the project restores the Hall as a modern multi-purpose venue for education, leadership, culture and community life, guided by Chartered Architects, Engineers and Quantity Surveyors.

Scope includes roof and waterproofing, entrance and lobby, stage and acoustics, air conditioning and lighting, and fire, safety and accessibility improvements. Construction has begun in 2026, with target completion in 2027.

LKR 78 Mn Total project
LKR 38 Mn Already secured
LKR 40 Mn Guardians campaign
400 Legacy Places

Full detail lives on Explore the Project · site photos on Progress.

04

How Guardians help

400 equal places. One lasting honour.

The Guardians campaign raises the remaining balance through 400 Legacy Places at LKR 100,000 each. Every Guardian receives equal honour, named in The Pride Gallery on 12″ × 6″ granite, laser engraved.

Legacy Place funds restore the Main Hall only. Batches, families and overseas alumni can join on the same terms. You can also share a memory for the Digital Heritage Archive, so stories travel with the stone.