Brief History of Lionism in Sri Lanka

The International Philosophy of Lionism was introduced to Sri Lanka on the 1st of April 1958 as a club extension from the South Indian District of 304. The first club was named – the Lions Club of Colombo, later re-named as the Lions Club of Colombo Host. With the growth of Lionism Provincial District Status was granted subsequently as District 306 under the stewardship of Sri Lanka’s first District Governor – the Late Lion K. Satchithananda.

As Lionism extended its service activities outside Colombo, new clubs were formed rapidly. In order to better fulfill both administrative and service requirements, District 306 was divided in 1978, to two Districts – namely 306 A and 306 B. With this division, Sri Lanka’s Multiple District 306 was born. Under the new structure, the two sub Districts 306 A and 306 B were able to serve more effectively.
With the passage of time, Districts 306 A & B expanded their network steadily. For administrative purposes, the need for redistricting was once again necessary (identified). In 1998 the Multiple District 306 re-demarcated to three Sub Districts. i.e.- 306 A, B & C.

Lions International has commenced the positive growth of Lionism in Sri Lanka and recommended for another redistricting programme for 6 Sub Districts – namely 306 A1 & A2, B1 &B2, C1 &C2. At the beginning of the present Lionistic year, our Multiple District carried a total membership of 12,000 Lions. This small but dynamic Multiple District is honored with two Past International Directors and the Past International President Lion Mahendra Amarasuriya.