About Us
A community of faith, service, and belonging — the Bharatha people of Negombo, united by six centuries of heritage.
Who We Are
Rooted in heritage,
driven by purpose
The Bharatha community traces its roots to Tamil-speaking Paravar people from Southern India who arrived on Sri Lanka's shores in 1415 — Aryan warriors who broke the Arab monopoly on the pearl trade and settled along the western coastal belt from Mannar to Colombo. Converted to Catholicism under Portuguese missionary influence in the 16th century, they adopted surnames like Fernando, Croos, Moraes, and Coonghe while four ancient names — Kalingarayan, Villavarayan, Poobalarayan, and Rayan — endure to this day.
Recognised as a unique ethnic group in 2001, approximately 1,288 Bharathas call Sri Lanka home. NBA, founded in 1937 under first president Nicholas Emmanuel De Croos, continues to unite families, preserve this extraordinary heritage, and serve society — now proudly marking its centenary.
Six Centuries of Heritage
Descended from Tamil-speaking Paravar people who arrived on Sri Lankan shores in 1415, the Bharatha community has preserved a proud identity across six centuries of faith, enterprise, and service.
Philanthropy at Our Core
Bharatha families built Maris Stella College, donated the chapel at St. Bridget's Convent, and funded the Lin Hathara public baths — a legacy of giving back that defines who we are.
Community Since 1937
Founded in 1937 under our first president Nicholas Emmanuel De Croos, NBA has united families through a community hall, elder's home, cemetery, and generations of shared celebration.
Our Purpose
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To preserve and promote the cultural identity of the Bharatha community, support the welfare of our members and their families, and contribute meaningfully to society through philanthropy, education, and community service.
Our Vision
A thriving, inclusive community where every Bharatha family feels valued and connected — a living legacy of faith, enterprise, and cultural pride carried forward for future generations.
What We Stand For
The principles that have guided NBA from the very beginning.
Integrity
Transparent governance, honest leadership, and full accountability to every member and the wider community.
Cultural Pride
Celebrating our Bharatha heritage — from the thali necklace in marriage ceremonies to distinctive cuisine like black pork curry and Portuguese-influenced bibikkan and kavun.
Philanthropy
A long tradition of giving — land for schools, chapels, public baths, and elder care that shaped Negombo for generations.
Family
Our association is more than an organisation — it's an extended family where every generation, from the founders' descendants to new members, is welcomed and valued.
Enterprise
From pearl fishing and sea-faring to Ceylon's first departmental store and over 50 Rising Sun kerosene depots — entrepreneurial spirit runs in our blood.
Service
Volunteering, community outreach, and support for the vulnerable have been central to Bharatha life since long before the association was formally founded.
Be Part of Our Story
Whether you are a lifelong member or just discovering your Bharatha roots, there is a place for you in NBA.