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A Life of Service: Ven. Beragama Vimaladhamma Nayaka Thero at 60

Published

4 weeks ago

2026/03/22

Ven. Beragama Vimaladhamma Nayaka Thero

As Sri Lanka’s Buddhist community marks a significant milestone, the Most Venerable Beragama Vimaladhamma Nayaka Thero celebrates his 60th birthday on Monday (March 23, 2026), coinciding with his retirement from formal academic service after more than three decades of dedication to monastic education.

The Chief Incumbent of Navala Wimala Viharaya, Ven. Vimaladhamma Thero also serves as the Chief Sanghanayake of the Western Province of the Amarapura Maha Nikaya and the Acting Chief Secretary of the same chapter. His retirement from the Sri Dharmarakshita Tripitaka Dharmayathana Pirivena at Mallikarama Temple, Ratmalana, marks the conclusion of a 32-year-long teaching career that has left an indelible imprint on Buddhist education.

Born on March 23, 1967, in the rural village of Beragama near Ambalantota, Ven. Vimaladhamma Thero—then known as Mahinda Tilak Kumara—was the sixth child in his family. His early inclination toward spiritual life led him to enter the monastic order while still a schoolboy, under the guidance of senior prelates. He received higher ordination in 1987, embarking on a lifelong journey of learning and service.

His academic path was both rigorous and distinguished. From his formative studies at Vidyodaya Pirivena in Maligakanda to professional training at Paramadhamma Chetiya Pirivena in Ratmalana, he steadily built a strong foundation in Buddhist scholarship. He later earned a Bachelor’s degree from the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka and a Master’s degree from the University of Kelaniya, where he continues to pursue doctoral studies in Pali and Buddhist Studies.

In 1994, at the invitation of senior clergy, Ven. Vimaladhamma Thero joined the Sri Dharmarakshita Tripitaka Dharmayathana Pirivena as a teacher. His commitment to nurturing disciplined, knowledgeable monks saw him rise to the position of Pirivenadhipathi (Head of the institution) in 2012, a role he held with distinction for 14 years.

Colleagues and students alike credit him with shaping a generation of monks grounded in the principles of Dhamma and Vinaya. Rather than prioritizing physical expansion, his focus remained firmly on intellectual and spiritual development—a contribution widely regarded as vital to the continuity of the Buddha Sasana.

Beyond the classroom, Ven. Vimaladhamma Thero has played a significant role in disseminating Buddhist teachings to a wider audience. As editor of the “Navala Dharma Deshana” series, he has contributed to a body of literature valued by both lay readers and scholars. Expanding this mission further, he founded “Saddharmavahini,” a television platform dedicated to the global promotion of Dhamma.

Known for his eloquence, clarity of thought, and engaging delivery, he is widely respected as a preacher, writer, and teacher. His calm demeanor, humility, and unwavering commitment to service have earned him admiration across the monastic and lay communities.

In recognition of his contributions, the Amarapura Maha Nikaya has conferred on him several honorary titles and leadership roles, including positions within its governing council and financial administration, as well as the distinguished honorific “Mahaviharavamsalankara Saddharma Keerthi Sri Vichitra Bhan?.”

As he steps back from his formal duties, Ven. Vimaladhamma Thero leaves behind a legacy defined by scholarship, discipline, and compassion. His life’s work stands as a testament to the enduring value of education rooted in spiritual principles.

On this dual occasion of his 60th birthday and retirement, tributes continue to pour in, celebrating a monk whose quiet dedication has shaped minds, strengthened institutions, and enriched the spiritual fabric of the nation.

Rajakeeya Panditha Ven Kandegedera Sobhitha Thero of Ratmalana Jayasumanaramaya

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Heat Index at Caution Level in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Eastern and Southern provinces and in Monaragala district

Published

12 hours ago

2026/04/16

Priyan

Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre
Issued at 3.30 p.m. on 15 April 2026, valid for 16 April 2026.

The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Eastern
and Southern provinces and in Monaragala district.

The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.

Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.

ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.

Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491

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Indonesian Navy Sailing Ship KRI BIMA SUCI – 945 makes port call in Colombo

Published

17 hours ago

2026/04/15

Priyan

The Indonesian Navy Sailing Ship KRI BIMA SUCI – 945 arrived at the Port of Colombo on a goodwill visit on 15 Apr 2026 and was welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) in compliance with time-honoured naval traditions.

The vessel’s arrival is a key highlight of the ASEAN Plus Cadet Sail (APCS) – 2026 programme , accompanying a diverse contingent of Navy cadets from 26 different nations alongside their Indonesian counterparts.

The ship is commanded by Commander SUGENG HARIYANTO. Meanwhile, Officer Under-trainees of the Sri Lanka Navy are expected to participate in various programmes aboard the
ship and naval personnel observe its operational functions during its stay in the island.

Furthermore, the ship’s crew is scheduled to take part in programmes organized by the Sri Lanka Navy to enhance camaraderie between the two navies, as well as visit several tourist attractions in the country.

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PM initiates children into learning at the auspicious time while observing New Year traditional customs and rituals

Published

17 hours ago

2026/04/15

Priyan

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year cultural festival, organized by the Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, was held on Tuesday (14) in Gampaha under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, with the performance of traditional auspicious customs and rituals.

In accordance with tradition, during the Punya Kalaya (inauspicious time), the Prime Minister visited the Medagama Sri Sunandarama Viharaya in Gampaha and participated in religious observances and received blessings from Venerable Thunmodara Samitha Thero, a member of the Karaka Sangha Sabha of the Sri Lanka Ramanna Maha Nikaya and the Chief Incumbent of the Medagama Sri Sunandarama Dharmaduta Piriven Viharaya.

The traditional observances of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year cultural festival were held at the residence of Darshana Weerasinghe in Gampaha. Marking the auspicious time for commencing work, and upon the invitation of the host family, the Prime Minister planted a sapling within the premises. Concurrently, Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, joined the PM.

Subsequently, the Prime Minister joined children in engaging in traditional folk games.

At the auspicious time for engaging work and educational activities, the PM participated with children in reading and writing, guiding them and symbolically marking the commitment to advancing the educational development of the nation’s children.

Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other distinguished guests observed the traditional customs of exchanging greetings, transactions and gifts with the host family, and joined them to partake in the customary New Year meal.

Extending New Year greetings to all citizens, the Prime Minister expressed her gratitude to all Sri Lankans, both at home and abroad, for their contributions in overcoming and effectively managing the various challenges faced by the country.

Speaking at the occasion, Minister Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi stated that the Sinhala and Tamil New Year festival symbolizes renewal and purity, and reflects the energy of the sun. He also conveyed his wishes for a peaceful and prosperous New Year for all.

The occasion was attended by the Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning and Minister of Labour, Dr. Anil Jayantha; Deputy Minister of Labour, Mahinda Jayasinghe; Member of Parliament for the Gampaha District, Ruwan Mapalagama; along with the Gampaha District Secretary, Mayor, Divisional Secretaries, and a large number of government officials.

(Prime Minister’s Media Division)