Emperor Ashoka, with boundless benevolence, erected 84,000 Buddhist pagodas and temples across the expanse of Jambudveepa, igniting the beacon of Buddhism. Through his auspicious blessings, his son, Arhant Mahinda Thero, embarked upon a sacred mission to Sri Lanka during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa, heralding the dawn of Buddhism in this blessed land. Thus, the sacred order of Bhikkus took root in Sri Lanka, intertwining seamlessly with its rich culture and language, and traversing the annals of time with unwavering devotion and altruism.
Amidst this sacred lineage stands the venerable Dimbulkumbre Sri Saranankara Wimaladhamma Thero, the esteemed Anu Nayaka of Malwathu Maha Viharaya, upon whom Sathipattan bestows its adulations and reverence. From a tender age, the Thero, born Tikiri Bandara, was drawn to the path of enlightenment, recognizing the ephemeral nature of existence. His noble lineage, hailing from the Dimbulkumbra region in Hanguranketha, Udahewaheta in Nuwara Eliya District, was renowned for safeguarding the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and offering refuge to kings and nobles during times of turmoil.
Under the nurturing guidance of Bajjawala Walawwe Rambandara Nilame and Dingiri Bandara Menike, young Tikiri Bandara blossomed into a paragon of piety and virtue. His educational journey commenced at Dimbulkumbre Junior School, paving the way for further enlightenment at Sri Sangharaja Pirivena, affiliated with the venerable Malwathu Maha Viharaya. Imbued with scholarly acumen, Tikiri Bandara excelled in his studies, driven by an unwavering commitment to righteousness and spiritual pursuit.
On the hallowed eve of December 30, 1965, within the sanctum of Malwathu Uposathagaraya, Tikiri Bandara embraced the robes of monkhood, commencing a journey of profound introspection and enlightenment. Furthering his quest for knowledge, the Thero pursued higher studies at the esteemed University of Colombo, culminating in an honours degree in Oriental History, thus enriching his spiritual arsenal with profound wisdom and erudition.
In the year 1976, the Thero embarked upon a noble vocation as a teacher at Sri Nissanka Vidyalaya in the picturesque environs of Nuwara Eliya, subsequently imparting wisdom at Maha/ Dodamwala Vidyalaya and Nu/ Ambagamuwa Maha Vidyalaya. His altruistic spirit led him to remote corners, where he selflessly served the children of those lands, leaving an indelible mark of gratitude in their hearts.
Ascending to the helm of educational leadership, the Thero assumed the role of principal at Maha/ Wathurakumbura Vidyalaya in 1986, a testament to his unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds. Upon his retirement in 2001, his legacy echoed far and wide, with his students dispersing across the globe, bearing the torch of knowledge and enlightenment in various spheres of life.
In the wake of his mentors’ passing in 1982, the venerable Thero ascended to the revered position of chief incumbent at the Garappitiya Ancient Raja Maha Viharaya in Yati Nuwara, as well as the Pilimatalawa Ranawana Ancient Raja Maha Viharaya. Embracing this responsibility with unwavering dedication, the Thero embarked on a journey of restoration and revival, breathing new life into these sacred abodes which had long awaited tender care. Under his stewardship, neglected tasks found completion, and the temples witnessed a renaissance of sorts.
With a vision to enrich the spiritual landscape, the Thero initiated ambitious projects, including the construction of a Vihara chamber and a Dharmashala within the temple precincts. Additionally, recognizing the importance of education in preserving the essence of Buddhism, he established a Dhamma School on the temple grounds, ensuring the teachings endure for generations to come. Infrastructure development was not overlooked, as the Thero secured essential amenities such as electricity, water, and improved road access, transforming the temples into serene sanctuaries of serenity and beauty.
The legacy of the Thero’s benevolence reverberates in the hearts of villagers, who fondly recall his selfless contributions to the Ranawana Ancient Raja Maha Viharaya in Pilimatalawa. Such exemplary service garnered the admiration of Malwathu Viharaya, which honoured him with a distinguished position in the esteemed Sangha Sabha committee. Later, his journey led him to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, where he assumed significant roles, culminating in his appointment as chief incumbent in 2022.
Beyond the confines of Sri Lanka, the Thero’s impact transcended borders, as he tirelessly championed the cause of Buddhism in various corners of the globe. From the spiritual heartlands of India and Thailand to the mystical landscapes of Burma, China, and Laos, he traversed far and wide, spreading the message of peace and enlightenment. Notably, in collaboration with Venerable Rambukwelle Sri Dhammarakkhitha Maha Nayaka Thero, he spearheaded the establishment of the Golden Pagoda temple in Singapore.
The mantle of leadership bestowed upon Most Venerable Dimbulkumbure Sri Saranankara Vimaladhamma Thero as Anu Nayaka of Malawathu Chapter’s Shyamopali Nikaya is not merely a title but a testament to his unwavering commitment to service and compassion. In the wake of the revered Most Venerable Rajakiya Panditha Ambanwelle Sri Siddhartha Pagnasekara Thero’s passing, the Thero’s appointment fills a void, ensuring the continuity of noble traditions and guiding principles.
Indeed, the venerable Thero shines brightly in the firmament of Buddhism, a guiding star illuminating the path for seekers of truth and solace. May his benevolent spirit continue to inspire, and may he be blessed with robust health and unwavering strength to tread the noble path of service for many more years to come.
© satipatthana.net
