Sunday Times 2
The Blue and Gold Ball 2025: A night to remember
View(s):The grandeur and tradition of the Old Royalists’ Association in the UK came to life recently at the splendid Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate, as members and guests gathered for the much-anticipated Blue and Gold Ball—the Association’s flagship annual event.
Nestled in the rolling countryside of Hertfordshire, the Down Hall Manor with its beautiful gardens offered the perfect setting for an evening steeped in elegance, camaraderie, and celebration. On arrival, guests were received by the president, Janak Ranasinghe, and his lady, Sureshni Ranasinghe, at the entrance to the Rookwood suite for portraits.
Some of the attendees at the ball
The Bridgman-Selwyn ballroom, adorned in the association’s colours of blue and gold, provided a stunning backdrop for the festivities. The evening’s formal programme began with a sumptuous three-course dinner. Dinner was followed by the president proposing the Loyal Toast to the King, followed by the toast to the Old Royalists’ Association in the UK. This was followed by a toast to the alma mater, Royal College Colombo, delivered by Dai Liyanage MBE.
As the night unfolded, the dance floor came alive to the reverberating music provided by Synergy. From classic waltzes to lively contemporary hits and popular Sri Lankan bailas, the entertainment kept guests dancing well into the early hours. A highlight of the evening was the traditional singing of the College Song, honouring the enduring bonds among Royalists and celebrating the legacy of excellence and unity that defines the community.
The lotterry winner Lushani
There was never a dull moment during the raffle, conducted by Dr. Elmo Thambapillai, with guests waiting with bated breath in anticipation of winning one of the several fabulous prizes, which included Fortnum and Mason hampers and travel vouchers. Lady luck was with Lushani Kodituwakku, who walked away with the first prize.
Beyond the glamour, the event also raised funds for the association’s scholarship initiatives and various projects for their alma mater.