History
January 16, 2026 2026-01-22 11:54History
The Story of Hindu College Colombo
In the late 1940s, the Hindu community in Colombo faced a dilemma: how to provide their children with a modern, English-medium education without losing their religious and linguistic identity. Under the guidance of the Hindu Educational Society, the vision for a dedicated institution was born.
On February 12, 1951, the college officially opened its doors. It began with a handful of students and a few dedicated teachers, driven by the motto “Karka Kasadara"(Learn flawlessly). The founders envisioned more than a school; they sought to build a "Gurukulam" in an urban setting.
Architectural Evolution &
The Bambalapitiya Landmark
The move to the current premises in Bambalapitiya was a turning point. The architecture of Hindu College, Colombo, blends colonial-era structural strength with traditional Dravidian influences.
The Main Wing
Designed to accommodate the growing influx of students from across the Western Province, the main building became a landmark of the Colombo 04 skyline.
The College Shrine
Central to HCC's history is the Saraswathi and Pillayar Shrine. It is the spiritual heart of the campus. For decades, every school day has commenced with the sacred chanting of “Thevaram, a tradition that has remained unbroken since the school’s inception.
The Playground
Often referred to as our "field of dreams," the grounds were reclaimed and developed through the tireless efforts of the Old Boys and the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) to provide a space for what would become a legendary cricketing culture.
The "Golden Era" of Academics and Leadership
Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Hindu College Colombo established itself as an academic powerhouse. It was during this time that the school gained a reputation for producing some of the nation's finest doctors, engineers, and accountants.
National Status (1976)
Recognition by the state as a National School was a milestone that solidified HCC’s position as a premier educational institution in Sri Lanka.
Science & Commerce Excellence
The college was among the first Tamil-medium schools in the city to offer advanced laboratory facilities, leading to a surge in admissions to the G.C.E. Advanced Level streams.
A Legacy of Sporting Valeur
History at HCC is written in the sweat and spirit of its athletes.
The Battle of the Hindus
The annual cricketing encounter against Jaffna Hindu College is more than just a match; it is a historic celebration of brotherhood and rivalry that dates back decades, bringing together thousands of alumni from around the world.
Athletics and Beyond
From the "House Meets" where students compete under the names of great Hindu emperors and scholars, to our dominance in national-level football and chess, the school has always championed the philosophy of Mens sana in corpore sano (A sound mind in a sound body).
Resilience Through Adversity
The college's history is also a story of resilience. During the challenging years of Sri Lanka’s civil conflict, Hindu College, Colombo, served as a stable anchor for the Tamil community.
It remained a place of safety and growth, ensuring that the youth's education was never compromised. The school’s ability to maintain its standards and spirit during these times is a testament to the strength of its leadership and the loyalty of its community.