By Dr Damenda Porage
The Buddhist dispensation, or Buddhasasana, received a significant blessing with the recent appointment of the Most Venerable Narampanawe Ananda Nayake Thero as the new Anunayaka Thero of the Asgiriya Chapter of Siyam Maha Nikaya, Sri Lanka. This elevation is a testament to a life dedicated to the preservation and propagation of the Dhamma.
Born on February 10, 1965, in the village of Narampanawe, Ven. Ananda Thero’s journey began with his primary education at Narampanawe Maha Vidyalaya. His formal monastic life commenced on January 25, 1981, and his early education was undertaken at esteemed institutions such as Asgiri Pirivena and Sri Sunethradevi Maha Pirivena. He received the higher ordination or Upasampada on June 6, 1986.
Venerable Ananda Thero’s academic pursuits have been as profound as his spiritual ones. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Buddhist Education and a Master of Arts in Buddhist Studies from the University of Kelaniya. Currently, he is conducting research for his Ph.D. in Buddhist Philosophy at the University of Peradeniya, demonstrating his commitment to the scholarly study of the Dhamma.
A pivotal moment in his service to the Sasana was his instrumental role in the revival of the Asgiriya Maha Pirivena. With unwavering determination, he dedicated himself to rebuilding this institution, even declining a probationary lectureship at the University of Kelaniya to do so. Under his guidance, the Pirivena has flourished, becoming the primary educational hub for both local and international monks over the last three decades.
Furthermore, it holds the distinction of being the first and only monastic institution in Sri Lanka to offer Pirivena education in the English medium, from the foundational level to the final Panditha degree. This initiative has significantly enhanced the accessibility and reach of monastic education.
Venerable Ananda Thero’s tireless efforts in strengthening Pirivena education, safeguarding Buddhist philosophy, and engaging in extensive religious and social services underscore his unwavering commitment to the upliftment of the BuddhaSasana. His appointment as Anunayake Thero is not merely a personal achievement but a momentous occasion for the entire Buddhist community in Sri Lanka.
May Most Venerable Narampanawe Ananda Anunayake Thero be blessed with continued success in his new and elevated role!
