Archives: News

In a world that is rapidly evolving, our school continues to stand firm in preserving what truly matters — our rich traditions, cultural identity, and the spirit of unity. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year Celebration 2026 was a beautiful reflection of this commitment, bringing together students, staff, and the wider school community in a vibrant and meaningful celebration. The day began with a sense of calm and reverence, as morning prayers were held within classrooms, setting a peaceful tone for the events ahead. As students gathered, the atmosphere gradually transformed into one of excitement and anticipation. The ceremonial lighting of the traditional oil lamp symbolized the dispelling of darkness and the welcoming of prosperity and new beginnings. A key highlight of this year’s celebration was the strong emphasis on cultural unity. From the very outset, announcements were conducted jointly by representatives of both Sinhala and Tamil societies, creating a powerful message of harmony and togetherness. Every segment of the programme was thoughtfully designed to reflect the shared values and traditions of both cultures. The traditional “Nakath” rituals were brought to life through an engaging dramatization by the Arachchi family, allowing students to understand not only the practices but also the deeper meaning behind them. The ritual of “Kiri Ithiraweema” (boiling of milk) was conducted with great enthusiasm, accompanied by rhythmic raban playing and graceful dance performances. Students also participated in symbolic activities such as sharing meals, engaging in Ganu-Denu (transactions), planting saplings, and paying respect to elders, each reinforcing values of gratitude, prosperity, and respect that lie at the heart of our culture. The celebrations continued with a lively series of traditional Avurudu games, filling the school grounds with laughter, teamwork, and friendly competition. From lime and spoon races to sack races, bun-eating relays, and creative events like fancy dress and blindfolded challenges, the day was a joyful reminder of the simple pleasures that unite us across generations. What made this celebration truly special was not just the activities, but the spirit behind them. It was a celebration of diversity, a recognition of shared heritage, and a reaffirmation that our differences only make us stronger when embraced with respect and understanding. As a school, we take pride in nurturing students who appreciate their roots while growing into global citizens. Events like these serve as powerful reminders that traditions are not just to be remembered, but to be lived, shared, and passed on. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year Celebration 2026 was more than an event — it was a heartfelt celebration of culture, unity, and identity, leaving lasting memories in the hearts of all who took part.

The school officially reopened for the third phase of the first term on March 3, 2026, marking the beginning of another important academic period for students and staff. To commence the new phase with blessings and gratitude, a Holy Mass was held at the school in the morning. Students, teachers, and staff members gathered together in prayer, seeking guidance and strength for the months ahead. The service created a calm and reflective atmosphere as the school community reunited after the previous break. Following the Holy Mass, the prize-giving ceremony of the annual sports meet took place. The sports meet had been successfully held earlier on February 13, 2026, showcasing the athletic talents, teamwork, and enthusiasm of the students. During the ceremony, the winning houses of the class relay events were recognized and awarded. Students who participated in the relay races proudly received their certificates, while their peers applauded their achievements. The event not only celebrated victory but also highlighted the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance that sports help develop among students. With the reopening of school and the celebration of sporting achievements, the day served as a meaningful start to the third phase of the first term. Students returned to their classrooms motivated and encouraged, ready to continue their academic and extracurricular activities with renewed enthusiasm.

In a beautiful testament to unity and sisterhood, Holy Family Convent, Bambalapitiya, recently hosted its first-ever Iftar gathering. This landmark event, held under the visionary initiative of our Principal, Rev. Sr. Charitha Thandalge, transformed our school grounds into a sanctuary of shared faith and mutual respect. The evening brought together a diverse tapestry of our community, including special invitees, our extended family from the PPA, PTA, APT, and Welfare Committee, religious Union members, dedicated teachers, and our beloved Muslim alumni. It was a heartwarming sight to see “Familians” of all generations and backgrounds returning home to sit side-by-side as one family. The spiritual highlight of the evening was a moving Bayaan (sermon) delivered by Aunty Neroza Hisham, a past Familian, who spoke eloquently on the deep significance of fasting. Her words resonated with everyone present, reminding us that while our rituals may differ, our values of discipline, empathy, and devotion remain the same. As the sun began to set, an expectant hush fell over the gathering. With the sounding of the Azan (the call to prayer) and the conclusion of Maghrib prayers, the moment of Iftar finally arrived. In a powerful display of harmony, everyone—regardless of their own religious faith—broke their fast together. The tables were filled with traditional favorites and modern treats, including Iftar boxes packed with: Savory mini pizzas, kebabs, and spring rolls Sweet fruit tarts Traditional kanji (porridge) and refreshing bottles of faluda Beyond the delicious food, it was the spirit of the evening that left a lasting impression. This historic gathering proved that at Holy Family Convent, we don’t just talk about diversity; we live it. We walked away not just with full stomachs, but with full hearts, having strengthened the bonds that make us truly one family under God.

On the 3rd of February, Holy Family Convent, Bambalapitiya proudly celebrated its 123rd School Day in conjunction with the 78th Independence Day of our beloved motherland, Sri Lanka. The morning dawned with a sense of gratitude and pride as the school community gathered to honour not only the remarkable journey of our cherished alma mater but also the freedom and unity of our nation. It was a day that beautifully intertwined faith, heritage, and patriotism, reminding us of the values that have shaped generations of Familians. The celebration commenced with a solemn and meaningful prayer service, invoking God’s blessings upon our school, our students, and our country. The spirit of reverence and thanksgiving filled the air as voices rose in harmony, reflecting 123 years of faith, excellence, and unwavering commitment to holistic education. The prayer service set the perfect tone for a day of reflection and joyful celebration. The programme continued with a series of captivating performances presented by our talented students. The oriental music items echoed the rich cultural rhythms of our island nation, while the graceful Carnatic melodies brought a sense of serenity and pride. Each performance was a testament to the artistic talents nurtured within our school and served as a tribute both to our heritage and to the enduring legacy of Holy Family Convent. Adding to the joy of the day, all students were delighted with a special surprise treat to mark the School Day celebration. A significant highlight of the day was the official launching of the school’s Facebook page, marking an important milestone in Holy Family Convent’s journey towards embracing modern communication while preserving its rich traditions. This initiative reflects our commitment to connecting with the wider community and sharing the many achievements and activities of our beloved institution. As we proudly say, “Happy Birthday to the Grand Old Lady by the Sea!” May Holy Family Convent, Bambalapitiya continue to shine brightly, inspiring young hearts and minds for many generations to come.