Who is Harini Amarasuriya, Sri Lanka’s new PM with a BA degree from DU’s Hindu College?

Harini Amarasuriya, an academic-turned-politician, has been sworn in as Sri Lanka’s 16th Prime Minister, marking a significant moment in the nation’s political history. Amarasuriya, 54, is the first woman to hold this office since Sirimavo Bandaranaike in 2000. Her appointment is particularly noteworthy due to her deep connection with India, having studied at Delhi University during the early 1990s.

Delhi University Connection

Amarasuriya earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Hindu College, Delhi University, between 1991 and 1994. Her time at the renowned institution is seen as an influential part of her journey toward leadership. Anju Srivastava, Principal of Hindu College, expressed the pride felt by the institution at Amarasuriya’s success.

“It’s an honour to know that a former student of Hindu College has become the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. Harini studied Sociology from 1991 to 1994, and we are extremely proud of her success. I hope her time at Hindu helped shape her path to leadership,” Srivastava stated.

Influences from Hindu College

Hindu College, known for its tradition of student governance, seems to have played a role in nurturing leadership qualities. Srivastava highlighted the annual election of a college prime minister and opposition leader, noting Amarasuriya’s rise as another milestone in the college’s history.

Memories from College Days

Nalin Rajan Singh, a Bollywood director and former batchmate, shared his recollections of their college years. “I vaguely remember her, but I recall her active participation in college festivals and debates. It was the 90s, and many of us—people like Imtiaz Ali and Arnab Goswami—were beginning to make our mark. Seeing her rise to prime minister is truly amazing,” Singh remarked.

Singh also served as the president of the Hindu College student hostel during their time there and noted that her new role could further strengthen ties between India and Sri Lanka. He added that the close-knit alumni circle of Hindu College would likely invite Amarasuriya to a future gathering.

A Broad Portfolio

In her role as Prime Minister, Amarasuriya has been entrusted with a wide array of portfolios, including Justice, Education, Labour, Industries, Science and Technology, Health, and Investment. She was sworn in by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who also appointed a four-member cabinet, including himself.This appointment marks a significant step for Sri Lanka as it welcomes a leader with a strong academic background and deep ties to India.