Vidyodaya University Archives

A Tribute to Podi hamuduruwo – By Dr. Tilak S. Fernando When I was in London my niece Shyamala Fernando asked me to interview Dr Galagoda Gnanissara Thera when I visited Sri Lanka on holiday in 2000, one of the most respected Buddhist prelates in Sri Lanka. He’s popularly known as Podihamuduruwo, the Chief Incumbent at the Gangarama Temple. Venerable Nayaka Thera was born on 14 December 1943, ordained in the village of Galagoda, Matara, on 8 November 1954. After completing his primary education, he entered Vidyodaya University in 1961 and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He took up robes at the age of 10, graduated at 17 and had to take the reins of Gangarama Viharaya at the age of 17 when his guru Venerable Devundera Sri Vachissara passed away. Many admire his guidance. The Venerable helps orphans to face life with a strong sense of ...

A shining example for Buddhist Clergy – By Dr. Tilak S. Fernando Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thera was recognised as a noble Buddhist monk who committed his whole life to social service. The Venerable monk never indulged in selfish motives. Some Buddhist monks have joined various political parties and dabble actively in politics. Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thera focused on working for the ordinary man. Therefore, the late Thera was considered one of the holiest priests, who earned respect from the public. Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thera’s sixth death anniversary was commemorated at the Rajamaha Viharaya in Kotte a few weeks ago. Early Life He was born to Pathirage Don Peiris Appuhamy and Kuruwita Arachchige Karalinahamy in a remote village called Maduluwawe. Educated initially at Maduluwawe mixed school, as a child, he displayed unique qualities that were different from other young children and decided to take up robes as a Buddhist monk ...