Tribute
Vijitha Weerasinghe
November 6 marked the departure of an exemplary individual in the
history of Royal College, as well as in the history in the field of
education. He is none other than Vijitha Weerasinghe or 'Viji', as he is
fondly remembered by his friends and colleagues at Royal College. Viji
Weerasinghe created history in many ways. I doubt that any other
individual would possess the commitment to devote 73 years of a life of
80 years to any institution.
"Having been within the precincts of Royal College in one capacity or
another for a total of 73 years, the spirit of this wonderful school of
ours has found its way into my blood and penetrated into my very bones"
was what Viji often said regarding his love and utmost dedication to
College. The spirit of this wonderful school, as Viji lovingly
mentioned, is carried in the blood of many of those who had the good
fortune of associating Viji either on a friend, colleague, teacher or
administrator.
Viji's knowledge of Literature, Latin and Classical Music was second
to none. He was a guru, not only to generations of Royalists but also to
many teachers, especially those teaching English. He never failed to
impart some words of wisdom to the large number of teachers who traipsed
into his office on a daily basis.
Weerasinghe personified a father figure at Royal College. He received
the boon of a rich and full education, and his alma mater was successful
in instilling a sound value system in him. He also recognised his duty
to pass on this knowledge to all those he met. Thus the bright and
radiant flame kindled a thousand candles.
His sense of justice and great desire to treat everybody equally and
with respect stands above the rest. Viji's contribution to the field of
education and Royal College stands out as a monument. His pupils, who
are thriving and flourishing in varied fields, are living proof of his
brilliance as a teacher be it politics, medicine, engineering, civil law
or any other discipline. He firmly believed that Royal College should
and must produce men who have learnt of books and men as well as to play
the game. It is only through such a measure, he said, that responsible
citizens can venture out to society and serve his nation.
Having associated him for 23 years as a Deputy Principal and an
advisor, I considered Viji to be a treasure trove of knowledge and
wisdom. His positive attitude towards life in general was never
diminished till he gasped his last. He rarely complained of hardships or
suffering, choosing rather to be optimistic and appreciate the finer
points of life. 'And in the end, it's not the years in your life that
count. It's the life in your years.' So said Abraham Lincoln, which
rings true when one considers Viji. He never failed to stop and smell
the roses.
He was also a counsellor and advisor to all those and sundry attached
to Royal. One would go to his desk in depths of despair, having
experienced the greatest betrayal or loss and Viji would revive his
spirits and would not forget to mention that the great Julius Ceaser was
stabbed in the back by his friends.
Viji used to address even the junior most principal as sir or madam,
though the topmost individuals in College and the country have sir'd
him. (This serves as a testament to his regards and respect for
authority). Viji displayed a great sense of adaptability, a
characteristic which older generations lack. He possessed the wonderful
ability to converse with old boys as well as the youngest students, from
the teachers to the minor staff, with absolute ease. Most importantly he
could advice different individuals from various age groups without
failing to bridge the age gap and could command respect and admiration
from all of them in return.
He granted equal respect to the non-academic staff of college. Even
the minor employees were addressed courteously and always called the
young apprentices, clerks and cleaners 'Miss so-and-so'. He taught all
those under his tutelage the important lesson of respecting all
individuals and appreciating their worth and value. It was due to this
regard that was granted that Viji was universally loved and respected.
All of us at Royal College, who are preparing to celebrate 175 years
of proud history, rich tradition and firm, principled character, must
embrace the values and beliefs that Viji displayed. In the threshold of
greatness, one will not be judged by his achievements or accolades but
by his character and personality. Therefore renown can only be won
through each of us emulating his great qualities individually and
respecting one another as a community. Viji was an ardent believer in
joy through hard labour and worked tirelessly towards some cause. He
always strived towards a more just and humane society.
"When one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book, but
translated into a better language." - John Donne
It is the duty of everyone of you to maintain his legacy and not
dishonour his name. It is your responsibility to ensure that his
sacrifices were not made in vain. It is your obligation to make sure
that his quiet dedication and humble service creates a lasting change,
as he intended, and serves to hoist the college flag to greater and more
glorious heights.
"Three passions have governed my life;
The longings for love, the search for knowledge,
And unbearable pity for the suffering of humankind.
Love brings ecstasy and relieves loneliness,
In the union of love I have seen
In a mystic miniature the pre-figuring vision
Of the heavens that saints and poets have imagined.
With equal passion I have sought knowledge,
I have wished to understand the hearts of (people),
I have wished to know why the stars shine.
Love and knowledge led upwards to the heavens,
But always pity brought me back to earth;
Cries of pain reverberated in my heart
Of children in famine, of victims tortured
And of old people left helpless.
I long to alleviate the evil, but I cannot,
And I too suffer.
This has been my life; I found it worth living.'
- Bertrand Russell
- Lakshmi Attygalle Deputy Principal, Royal College
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