Remembering 50th anniversary - group of 56 Peradeniya university
NOSTALGIA: Thanks to the Daily News which carried the article
titled “56 entrants to the University of Ceylon celebrate 50th
anniversary”, there was a stream of calls from the group of 56 offering
their grateful thanks of refreshing their memories and the honour
bestowed. Almost a year has passed since the 56 group celebrated the
event at Peradeniya.
Chandra and Beatrice reminding me of the great day almost
simultaneously put the question, “Are we not continuing it this year?
Next person to inquire was Shiva looking forward for the next. Metta was
reminiscing it at the old girl’s get together. Padmini and Winnie from
UK are still others to be added to this list. Hence this brief article
is to commemorate the memorable day of August 20, 2006.
MEMORIES: A section of the fancy dress parade in 1956. |
The idea of university education is an outcome of imperialism. The
university became the symbol of higher education of the elite in the
Colonial era. It was inaugurated in Colombo, the capital city.
The person behind this great edifice was Sir Ivor Jennings, a shining
example of an intellectually gifted genius in the academic world. The
early 50s saw the transferring of the seat of the university to
Peradeniya - a nature’s gift. Ivor Jennings who pioneered the
establishment of this esteemed institution and the gifted Architect,
Shirley de Alwis, who beautified the place made a tremendous
contribution in this sphere.
One can see for themselves the vision of the creator once they step
into the campus for its vastness, facilities and the scenic splendour.
History has accorded in the due place as the educational visionary
who first introduced the new innovations. It was when it was at the
height of her glory that the group of 56 was blessed with their
admission to the university.
Enchanted by the scenic beauty and encouraged by the atmosphere, they
settled down and devoted their time to studies enjoying all the benefits
to be very brief. Four long years passed in this manner.
It was hard work filled with joy. Feeling of time meaningfully and
well-spent was in their minds when they departed after graduation. We
still have pleasant recollections of our stay at Peradeniya.
There was a closely-knit group of friends whose friendship continues
even up to this day. It is with great pride that we recall the good old
days.
Back to the grand occasion - thanks to Somasundram, the key
negotiator popularly and affectionately known as Jolly. He sent a
rallying call to the batch-mates of 56 and played a key role in getting
the group 56 together.
They should be truly proud of him for the fine opportunity provided.
The trip to Peradeniya was quite a success. It had been well planned the
thrill of entering the premises was beyond expression.
It gave great pleasure to think of the glorious past the scenic
splendour of flowering trees, well laid out gardens, the panoramic
Hantana hills were refreshing our memories.
The other places of interest, the arts theatre, the senate building,
gymnasium and the library still reflect the past glory the shady curved
kissing bend, the one time women’s halls were the same in external
appearance.
On arrival at the ‘Lodge’ the most impressive was the rousing welcome
we received from those around Kandy. Soon we got to know one another. It
was a case of giving self-introductions with a touching handshake.
The day was packed with commemorative events. We posed for a
photograph treasured by every one. A delicious lunch was served. A
sing-song party followed. It will always remain a memorable event for
all those who were present.
The other most remarkable event to mark the occasion was the souvenir
“And quietly flows the Mahaweli” compiled by Jolly, dedicated to the
then iron Vice Chancellor Sir Nicholas Attygale.
The publication exclusively deals with the nostalgic memories and the
reminiscences of the 1956 entrants who have rightly described the
services it has rendered, their gains and achievements with their
interesting episodes.
I am sure the souvenir is indeed a treasure for those who wish to
renew the past memory that alone is precious one to remember the day.
Thanks to Jolly for the jolly day given to us looking forward to the
next.
- Rupa BANDUWARDENA |