The Trinity College Social Service Union, in collaboration with the Mahamaya Girls’ College Social Science Society, organised Sathkara ’26, its annual social service initiative, on 20 August 2026 in conjunction with the sacred Kandy Esala Perahera.
The project aimed to offer a gesture of care and hospitality to the tens of thousands of devotees and visitors who gathered in Kandy to witness the Esala Perahera. The Esala Perahera is one of the country’s important cultural and religious occasions, and students from both institutions came together to serve the crowds who had gathered for it.
As part of Sathkara ’26, volunteers distributed refreshments to pilgrims and spectators along the streets of Kandy, serving an estimated 4,000 individuals with tea buns and bottled mineral water. The gesture offered much-needed relief to those who had travelled from various parts of the island to witness the procession.
The project was made possible through the dedication of the student volunteers, who worked hard preparing, organising and distributing the refreshments. Members of the Trinity College Social Service Union and the Mahamaya Girls’ College Social Science Society worked closely together throughout, reflecting the value of collaboration in community service.
Beyond the distribution of refreshments, Sathkara ’26 was a reminder of what social service is about: compassion, generosity and a willingness to give of oneself for others. Students had the opportunity to work directly with the public, developing teamwork and leadership skills along the way, and gaining a stronger sense of what it means to give back.
Sathkara ’26 proved to be a meaningful initiative, bringing together two schools in a shared effort to give something back to the community.
On behalf of the organising committees, we extend our sincere gratitude to the College administrations, teachers-in-charge, members of the Trinity College Social Service Union and the Mahamaya Girls’ College Social Science Society, generous sponsors and well-wishers, and all the volunteers whose dedication and support contributed to the success of Sathkara ’26.
Article by Thejaka Abeysekara (Web-Content Team)
