At the request of Don Phillip de Silva Epa Appu, Ven. Sumangala, started the task of establishing a Pirivena in Colombo. Initially he started a residential course at Paramananda Vihara, Kotahena. Vidyodaya Pirivena was started in 1873, with seven students.

(Two years later, in 1875, Peliyagoda Vidyalankara Pirivena was established by Ven. Ratmalane Dhammaloka Thero.) The syllabus of the Pirivena included subjects such as Pali, Sinhala, Sanaskrit, Prakrit, Grammar, Prosody etc. With the establishment of the two Pirivenas began the revival of Sinhala culture and the discipline of the Dhamma. Gradually, the quality as well as the number of students of the Pirivena improved. Students, who received their education here, established branches in many parts of the island.


International Service of Ven. Sri Sumanagala Thero


Ven. Sumanagala's incomparable display of erudition, energetic nature and piety were spoken of far and wide, even internationally. The arrival of Col. Olcott in Ceylon gave an impetus to his activities. Under this Thero's guidance, the Theosophical Society, Ananda College (Colombo) and the Mahabodhi Society were established. Publication of "Sinhala Bauddhaya" paper was also a feature that emerged about that time.

Indian Pundits of the calibre of Satischandra Vidyabhushana and Sarveshwara Chairman praised his scholarly attainments and work of erudition. In books written about Ceylon (Sri Lanka) he was referred to as the 'High Priest of Ceylon'. The various English Governor Generals appointed in his time, consulted him first, in all national and religious matters.

This was a period when many public debates were conducted on matters like religion, language, grammar etc. Ven. Summangala was the leader or the advisor in most of these debates. He was an author of outstanding quality, where he displayed exceptional knowledge of the Pali language and Sanskrit grammar. Apart from the Indian scholars mentioned above, his scholarly circle consisted of learned Sinhala Bhikkhus such as Ven. Mahagoda Sri Gnaneshwara, Heiyantuduwe Siri Devamitta, Bihalpola Siri Devarakkhita, Kahawe Siri Ratanasara, Dewundara Siri Saranankara Yagirala Sri Pragnananda, and lay pundits such as P.P. Wickramaarachchi. His guidance was given to Anagarika Dharmapala and the famous debater Ven. Mohottiwatte Gunananda. Prestigious titles were bestowed on him. The titles of Tripitakavagishwaracharya, was a title that had not been conferred from the time of Jayawardhanepura period. This prestigious title was bestowed on him, on his outstanding piety, discipline and erudition. He was also honored with the title of Maha Nayaka of Southern and Western Provinces. Though not advanced in age he also was made the Sri Pada Nayaka Thero. He had no connections lineally or with Sabaragamuwa and was only 40 years of age, but had excellent qualifications to receive this distinguished title.

This Bhikkhu, of great virtue and attainments in Dhamma and literature, rendered an immeasurable service to Buddha Sasana and the Sinhala nation. After a brief illness he passed away on the 11th of April 1911, at the ripe old age of 84.

The architect of the present day Gangaramaya (Hunupitiya) was Dewundara Sri Jinaratana Thero, the chief pupil of Ven. Hikkaduwe Sri Sumanagala. His father was Don Francisco Mahanama Abhayawardana, a descendant of Mahanama, the Prime Minister of King Dapulusena who ruled over Dewundara. His mother was Dona Gimara Alahapperuma.

After his primary education, he was ordanined as Dewundara Jinaratana Thero, by Ven. Angahawatte Ratanajothi of Dewundara Paramavicitrarama, the Chief Incumbent.

Ven. Dewundara Jinaratana received his education under the tutelage of Ven. Angahawatte Rathanajothi and Dodampahala Dipankara. In 1873, he was admitted to Vidyodaya Pirivena, where he proved to be a student of outstanding ability. In 1879 he received Higher Ordination at Malwatu Vihara, as the Chief Pupil of Hikkaduwe Sumanaga Thero.


Appointment as the Head of Gangaramaya


Ven. Dewundara Sri Jinaratana was appointed Head of Gangaramaya, while Ven. Sri Sumangala was alive.

The imposing Gangaramaya previously was a little hermitage built on a bit of marshy land, on the bank of Beira Lake. Ven. Jinaratana who had an exuberant personality was liked by Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. Within a short time with the co-operation of the people of the area he transformed the little Avasa into the fully equipped temple of today. He began acts of worship, which the devotees of the area were longing for. Due to the ringing of bells and beating of drums, at the pujas this caused a disturbance for an army General, who lived in the vicinity. He wanted to destroy the temple who subsequently gave in and leave the place to another place. Gradually Gangaramaya became an important place of Buddhist worship. It also began to serve the three Nikayas for their practice of Vinaya Traditions.

At that time, the temples in the city of Colombo were compelled to pay the usual rates, to the Municipality. Ven. Jinaratana negotiated with the authorities and got exempted from the rates.

The old Simamalaka was also repaired in his time, by the generosity of Mr. S.H. Moosajee.

He practised Dana very generously and gave alms and Pirikara to thousands of monks. He provided accommodation and other facilities to many Bhikkhus who came for their education from far away places.

He was also acclaimed as a preacher who disseminated the Buddha Dhamma with clarity and ease.

He produced ola books whenever he had spare time he was seen with stylus and ola leaves. He also collected rare ola books, with the help of friends and pupils and preserved at the Gangaramaya today. He was keen to make these valuable books accessible to the public. He saw the need to have a printing press to achieve this end. Through the generosity of Mr. J. Holmes Pollock a Scotsman, this requirement was fulfilled. Ven. Jinaratana started the Jinalankara Printing Press in 1890. More than fifty books, including Pansiya Panas Jatakaya, were printed and distributed. Today this printing press is a fully equipped printing press.

Gangaramaya has a valuable collection of relics of the Buddha, elephant tusks and rare artefacts acquired locally and from abroad.

On his tours to Siam (Thailand) and Burma (Myanmar) he received royal honours. Culalakara, the king of Siam promised to give an award called 'Syamarajathagaya' to Vidyodaya Pirivena. Another Siamese king gifted a Siamese Tripitaka to Sri Lanka, to show his appreciation of Ven. Jinaratana.

He was able to expand the temple premises by acquiring land in the vicinity.

In honour of his services, the committee of Malwatu Vihara, made him the Chief Sangha Nayaka of Kolamba Nava Korale on 20th June 1926 a position made vacant by the passing away of Ven. Kahawe Sri Sumangala Ratanasara Thero. Ven. Jinaratana was also the Head of Maligakanda Vidyodaya Pirivena, Hikkaduwe Thilakaramaya and Nalagasdeniy Vihara. His distinguised pupils included Ven. Mahagoda Sri Gnaneshwara, Ven. Walane Sri Sattissara, The head of Ratmalane Paramadhammacetiya Pirivena, Ven. Morontuduwe Sri Dhammananda Nayaka Thero of Sri Pada, Ven. Dewundara Sri Vacissara, who later became the Chief Incumbent of Gangaramaya and Avissawella Wimalananda Thero. This noble member of the Maha Sangha passed away one the 20th of May 1954.

The chief incumbent of Gangaramaya after the demise of Ven. Mahopadhaya Dewundara Sri Jinaratana was Ven. Keerthi Sri Sumangala Jinaratana Vacissara Thero. He was born on the 23rd of September 1902 in Dewundara and was named Mahagammullageyi Don Rapiyel Abhayawardane. His Father was Don Pediris Abhyawardane, a descendant of Mahanama, a Minister in the Court of King Dapulusen of Dewundara. His mother Dona Sisiliyana Abesuriya Ratnayake belonged to a respected family of Udarata (up country). He was also a nephew of Ven. Dewundara Jinaratana. After he received his primary education up to the age of 13 years, the parents who were very pious decided to hand him over to Gangaramaya. He was ordained at an auspicious time on the 18th of June 1916, as Dewundara Vacissara. His teachers were Dewundara Siri Jinaratana, Mahagoda Sri Gnaneshwara, Kahawe Ratnasara and Hikkaduwe Pemananda Theros.

Education and Higher Ordination


He entered Vidyodaya Pirivena and studied Pali, Sanskrit, Sinhala, Dharma Vinaya and Grammar. He was a keen student and proved to be a great scholar, when he had completed his 20th year he received Higher Ordination on the 21st of June 1923, at Malwatu Vihara.


Educational, Religious and Social Service


In 1928 he was appointed as an assistant teacher of Vidyodaya Pirivena by Kahawe Sri Ratanasara Thero, the Vice Principal (of Vidyodaya Pirivena). His knowledge of English enabled him to join the staff of Nalanda Vidyalaya in 1929. While working as a teacher in both these institutions, he continued to improve Gangaramaya. The old image house was replaced by an artistic Vihara Mandiraya. He with the help of well-wishers, acquired some additional land and constructed a three storeyed Pirivena Hall, and a residential hall for the Bhikkhus. A library too was started. His aim was to produce virtuous and learned Bhikkhus. Therefore he established the "Sri Jinaratana Bhikkhu Training Centre on the 8th of November 1954, and the Sri Gnaneswara Pirivena in 1955. These two institutions have rendered immensurable service to the novices. Bhikkhus who had free accommodation in the hostel and were educated here, are now serving in various parts of the country. Some of these learned Bhikkhus are working in foreign countries, propagating the Buddha Dhamma. This it has been possible for Mahayana countries to acquire knowledge of the philosophy of Theravada and maintain cordial relationships with the Sri Lanka Bhikkhus. He laid the foundation for the Sri Jinaratana Vocational Training Centre and the Sri Jinaratana English Academy. Today this is a blessing to thousands of students.The Buddhist Centres in New York and Tanzania were initiated by him. In recognition of his services the Sangha Nayaka of Kolamba Kadawat Satara, was conferred by the committee of Malwatu Viharaya in 1954. He was treated with respect and affection by His Excellency William Gopallewa the Governor General and Lady Gopallewa.

More and more books were printed at the Jinalankara Printing Press, Pali and Sinhala, which included works such as Sinhala Stupavamsa, Pali Stupavamsa, Chatubhanavarapali, Dharmapradeepika, Kawusilumina, Kusajataka Kavya, Lowedasangarawa and Sinhala Pansiyapanas Jatakaya. A language laboratory was established to teach foreign languages. Every encouragement was given to the Bhikkhus to sit the ancient Pracheena Examinations. Simamalaka in the Beira Lake was modernised and a Cetiya and a Samadhi Statue of the Buddha were consturcted. This place has now become a tourist attraction. Every effort was made by him to improve the Avissawella Sudharmaramaya.

He made pilgrimages to Siam (Thailand) Malaysia and India. The present incumbent of Gnagaramaya Ven. Glaboda Gnanissara Nayake Thero is his Chief Pupil.

From 1962 Ven. Dewundara Vacissar's passed away on the 23rd of May 1984.

Ven. Galboda Siri Gnanissara was born on the 13th of December 1943. His parents were Galboda Kankanamge Dona Juwanis and Amarawickrama Liyanage Selenahamy.

Completing his primay education, he was brought to Gangaramaya by Ven. Galboda Dewananda and handed over to to Ven. Dewundara Vacissara Thero. On that occasion, Ven. Dewananda predicted. "This boy was born under Sinha Lagna (Planetaria sign of Leo) and will be like a lion in the future."

On the 8th of November 1954 he was ordained as Galboda Gnanissara. Dewundara Ratanajothi was also one of his teachers. His lay sponsor was Dr. D.E. Wijewardane.

"If you do well, Podi Hamuduruwo, (small monk) I'll send you even to England for your studies" he made a promise on that day. On the same day was established the Sri Gnaneshwara Pirivena at Gangaramaya with a few novices. Ven. Galboda Gnanissara studied the Dhamma and other essential subjects at this Pirivena. On the 21st of June 1967 at the University of Vidyodaya. (Jayawardhanapura).

From 1961, Ven. Dewundara Vacissara Thero began to suffer from an eye complaint as a result Podi Hamuduruwo (Ven. Gnanissara) had to give up further studies. He had to carry on the various projects - both religious and national - that his teacher had started. Due to his forunate birth (good Karma) wisdom, and indefatigable energy, whatever he set his mind on, became a success. Such vast and varied projects have received praise and appreciation from the Buddhist clergy and the laymen alike.

The international recognition of Gangaramaya, is due mainly to the efforts of Podi Hamuduruwo. He is instrumental in counteracting the anti-Buddhist forces and strengthening the power of the Buddhist in the country in general and in Colombo especially.

He has performed an immense service to the under-privileged youths and traditional artists.

He has revived and developed the services initiated by his predecessors. He had the willing support of the various committees of Gangaramaya, as well as that of the highest in the land. They were the Governor General William Gopallewa, Presidents J.R. Jayewardene and R. Premadasa the first woman Prime Minister Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranayake and her family and the Ratwatte family. He has the inherent ability to attract goodwill and support. This quality has enabled him to active his selfless aims. All the constructions on the Vihara premises are completed artistically. The Vihara premises are completed artistically. The Vihara Mandira, Atavisi Buddha Pooja Mandira, Bodhimandapa, the preaching hall and the Simamalaka are works of art and inspire saddha in the devotees. Today Beira Lake with its serene and beautiful environs is a tourist attraction.

Sumangala Dhamma School and the pre-school on the little island named Singithi Uyana, make their valuable contributions towards the education of children.

Sri Jinaratana Vocational Training Centre is a professional training institute with branches in various parts of the island. Thousands of unemployed are able gain skills to obtain employment. The English Academy provides English education for those who would have had no access to the English language.

01. Ven. Galboda Gnanissara (Chief Patron)

02. Ven. Kirinde Assaji (Patron)

03. Ven. Pallegama Ratanasara (Patron)

04. Mr. Ranjith Sujeewa Wijayawardhana (Hon. President)

05. Mr. Prasad Gajaweera (Hon. Secretary)

06. Mr. Anil Mudalige (Hon. Treasurer)

07. Mr. DonYasapala Jayasuriya (Hon. Asst. Secretary)

08. Mr. Mihindu Keerthiratne (Asst. Treasurer)

09. Mr. Sunil Mendis (Member)

10. Mr. Dharmawansa Madanayaka (Member)

11. Mr. Albert Edirisinghe (Member)

12. Mr. Charitha Ratwatte (Member)

13. Mr. D.P. Jayasinghe (Member)

14. Mr. Nimal Welgama (Member)

15. Mr. Sanath Ukwatte (Member)

16. Mr. Nissanka Wijewardhane (Member) (lay Patron)

17. Mr. M.G. Piyadasa (Member)

18. Mr. Lal Gunaratne (Member)

19. Mr. Mohan Pandithage (Member)

20. Deshamanya H.K. Dhamadasa (Member) (lay Patron)

21. Mr. Tilak de Soyza (Member)

22. Mr. Sunil Abeywardane (Member)

23. Mr. Lal Edirisinghe (Member)

24. Mr. Jagath Sumathipala (Member)

25. Mr. Stanley de Silva (Member)

26. Mr. Amaradeva Malwatte (Auditor)

27. Mr. Jayantha Sirisena (Member)

28. Mr. Parakrama Fernando (Member)


Members of Sri Jinaratana Bhikkhu Abhyasa Vidyalaya who have passed away:


01. Mr. B.E. Weerasinghe

02. Mr. W.A.D. Ramanayake

03. Mr. Layard Jayasundere

04. Mr. Mahindha Kehelpannala

05. Mr. C.M. Fernando

06. Mr. M. David de Silva

07. Mr. M.D. Sirisena

08. Mr. M.E. Premadasa

09. Mr. V.D.P. Fernando

10. Mr. Gunasoma Hettiarachchi

11. Mr.D. de S. Gajaweera

12. Mr. Pinsiripal Fernando

13. Mr. G.V.J. Wickramasinghe

14. Sir Cyril de Soysa

15. Mr. U.D. Edmond

16. Mr. Aravinda Wijewardhana

17. Mr. N.W.J. Mudalige

18. Mr. G.B.S. Gomes

19. Mr. Ainsley Wijewardane

20. Mr. P.D. Alexander

21. Mr. D.P. de Silva


Member who have left the Committee:


Dr. W.F. Perera

Mr. Ananda Gunasena


A list of books printed by Gangaramaya and made available to the public:

Apart from these titles many books have been printed. With the financial help of H.M. Gunasekara Trust 4000 copies were printed. The printing of another 5000 copies was financed by Mr. Voranat Apihichari the retired Head of the Air Force of Thailand. 24,000 copies of the two books were printed by the Corporate Body of the Buddha Educational Foundation of Taiwan. These books have been distributed free of charge to the Maha Sangha, various individuals and Organizations. The information gathered is from the Tripitaka.

Sri Jinaratana Adhyapana Ayathana Palaka Sabhawa

This Committee was formed on the 9th on November 1979, with the following aims:

• Provide pre-school education in a Sinhala Buddhist environment in order to produce active healthy and wise citizens.

• Provide education for male and female students.

• Present them for government examinations.

• Train youths and adults for any industry required by the country.

• Start voctional Training programmes.

• Provide facilities for the trainees.

• Teach international languages.

• Organize language classes for those who take up foreign employment.

• Provide classes for physical training to produce healthy citizens

• Organize projects for agriculture, Printing, Publishing and Industries.


Office bearers of the Sri Jinaratana Adhyapanana Ayathana Palaka Sabhawa

1. Mr. Revata Wijayawardhana

2. Mr. Asker Moosajee

3. Mr. S.Tharmaratnam

4. Four representatives from the National Y outh Services.

5. Two members from the National Apprentice Board.

6. 25 members of the Committee of Sri Jinaratana Bhikkhu Abhyasa Vidyalaya.

The number of office bearers and the members total up to 34.

The Titles of the Books (in Sinhala) are as follows:-

1. Sila

2. Meditation

3. Restraint of the Five Senses

4. The Mind

5. Kamma

6. Rebirth

7. Paticcasamuppada

8. The Four Noble Truths

9. Rights & Responsibilities

10. The Economy

11. Development of Society

12. Thrilakshana

13. Keles (Defilements)

14. Stories

15. The Environment

16. Happiness

17. Administration

18. Buddhist Education

19. Devas in Buddhist Literature

20. Contemporary Society as in Tripitaka Literature

21. People and Places in Tripitaks

22. Scientific Facts

23. Simplicity of a Buddhist Life

In addition, treatment of various ailments, and medicines found in ancient ola books is also to be printed. In the process of publishing these books, the students will get a training in printing too.

Navam Maha Perahera

The original Perahera called Kolombo Esala Maha Perahera was held at Gangaramaya to commemorate the First Sermon of the Budha, in the month of Esala (August). Later many problems arose, which made it impossible to hold the annual Perahera. One of the reasons was that the Nayaka Thero’s health deteriorated. Instead, a very successful Navam Maha Perahera is held annually in the month of Navam (February) with many innovations.

In 1979, the first Navam Perahera was started with the support and co-operation of Mr. R. Premadasa, the then M.P. of Central Colombo. The aims of this Perahera are varied. It is primarily in veneration of the Triple Gem (Thun Sarana). It is for the appreciation and sustenance of traditional dancing and other art forms as well as the Sinhala culture. It is also to encourage little known but talented artistes, to keep their arts alive, and be known.

Ven. Sariputta and Moggallana received the title of the Chief Disciples on a Navam Full Moon Poya Day. The Perahera is also an offering in veneration of the Buddha, the Chief Disciples and also the Maha Sangha in general.

Navam Maha Perahera emerged in an era when there were no Perahera in Colombo. Now the dancers have the opportunity to get trained, to organize leaders and to gain recognition. The artistes are given help to prepare their costumes. The families of mahouts have received many gifts such as sewing machines, clocks, bicycles, tape-recorders, radios, TV sets etc. Each family has received a gold sovereign and a Deposit Account of Rs. 6000/-. Facilities have been made for tens of thousands of local people and tourists to enjoy and appreciate Sinhala culture. This in turn will help in the preservation of the Sinhala-Buddhist cultural heritage. The Perahera is an example of methodical planning.

Replica of Borobudhur

A replica of the histroric Borobudhur of Indonesia is being constructed at Gangaramaya.

One hundred and eighty eight (188) statues of the Buddha, 28 brass statues of the Buddha, 28 Pagodas of Stone, 28 Copper Caskets will be included in the replica along with 160 Buddha Statues for the Sravakas and Sravikas (80 Male disciples and 80 female disciples) and 160 stone pagodas. Copper plates depicting events from the life of the Buddha are being fashioned, to be a part of this construction.

Temporary (sh ort term) Ordination

This type of ordination is prevalent in Myanmar and Thailand, but was introduced to Sri Lanka for the first time at Gangaramaya. For a period of a fortnight the person is trained to lead the life of a Bhikkhu.

Young people participated in the programme with great enthusiasm. After the completion of the training (of two weeks) they commented that they were introduced to new way of life, and gained discipline and the ability to consider things from the angle of Dhamma.

This project was financed by the Bhadrawahti Charity Trust.

Bhadrawathie Charity Trust

The trust was formed by the late Mr. W.D. Fernando in memory of his wife Bhadrawathie Fernando. A rubber plantation, 723 acres in extent at Urumutte, Akuressa has been donated to Gangaramaya. It is with the funds of this Trust that various social services are maintained. This government approved charity was formed with the aim of helping the advancement of Bhikkhus and the Buddha Dhamma.

Hospital Service

Emergency wards 52 & 53 were repaired and maintained by Gangaramaya Punyadhara Samithiya.

Development Project of Pirivenas

The aim of this project is to provide bathrooms toilets and water services to all the 563 Pirivenas, approved by the Government. The work has been completed in 490 Pirivenas. Under this project each Pirivena gets equipment worth Rs. 50,000/-.

1. A machine to pump water

2. 3000 tiles

3. Four squatting pans

4. 1 commode

5. 12 plastic chairs

6. 10 reed mats 25’x3’

7. Electrical goods

8. 5 black-boards

9. 5 tables

10. Money for sand and cement.

This project is carried out under the supervision of European Commission by the assistance of Des-Vos Organization, Germany, ‘Direct Help’, Sri Lanka and Sri Jinaratana Adhyapana Ayathana Palaka Sabhawa.

Special Services to the Sangha

An annual offering of 450 robes to all the Bhikkhus who participated in the Navam Maha Perahera from its inception in 1979 for over 21 years has been made.

1991 - 500 robes were offered to the Maha Sangha.

Aug. 1992 - 1500 Bhikkhus were offered alms, robes, other requisites and Rs.1000/- each.

Aug. 1992 - Alms to 2500 monks robes, requisites and Rs. 1000/- each.

Feb. 1993 - 500 Bhikkhus were offered Daqna and Shavers and monetary assistance of Rs. 1000/- each.

Feb. 1994 - 1500 Bhikkhus were offered Dana, shavers and Rs. 1000/-each.

March 1994 - 5000 Bhikkhus were offered, Dana requisites and Rs. 1000/- each.

Donation of 10 lakhs of Rupees (1 million) to the Buddha Sasana Trust, formed for the welfare of Bhikkhus, ordained to commemorate Mihinda Maha Jayanghi.

Making arrangements to re-start the hospital for Bhikkhus at Kitulwatte.

Helping the Viharas to purchase three wheelers and to obtain bank loans.

Supplying 305 Pirivenas with requirements for bathrooms, toilets and water service.

Establishing the Bhikkhu Training College in 1954 and training Bhikkhus and printing literature to propogate the Buddha Dhamma locally and abroad.

Free distribution of leaflets on material collected from the Tripitaka.

Constructing a float with the statues of the twentyeight Buddhas (Atavisi Buddha) and making it available for the use of the temples.

Making available elephants for the Peraheras of temples.

Providing flags, sesath, guard weapons, elephants and tuskers fir rekuguiys activities of temples.

Elephants and Tuskers

Gangaramaya possesses six elephant and tuskers. When the ‘Casket-bearer Raja of the Kandy Perahera died, Gangaramaya donated Navam Raja. He is now performing that duty elegantly. The othe elephants are made available to the temples for their Perahera.

Simamalaka

Simamalaka in Beira Lake is nearly a century old. With the passing of time, the original Simamalaka fell into ruin and collapsed into the Beira Lake. Simamalaka is an essential part of a temple. Certian vinaya Practices can be done only at a Simamalaka. For a number of years, Gangaramaya was unable to provide facilities for Vinaya Karma. However, the opening of the present Simamalaka of ex ceptional beauty took place on the 10th of February 1979. A programme of devotions and chanting takes place daily.

On certain auspicious days, Higher Ordination ceremonies are also conducted here. A model of the foot of the Buddha sculptured in marble, has been donated to Gangaramaya. It has been placed in the Simamalaka. The sculptured on the wall surrounding the lake are very attractive. When viewed from the bank, the Simamalaka presents a beautiful picture. Today it attracts thousands of tourists.

The benefactors Mr. and Mrs. S.H. Moosajee and Mr. and Mrs. Asker Moosajee, treated both Ven. Jinaratana and Ven. Vacissara with affection. These people are thought of with gratitude for restoring the Simamalaka to it present splendor.

Meditation Classess

Every Tuesday and Friday, meditation classes are held from 5.00 till 6.30 p.m. under the guidance of a well-known meditation teacher.

The model of Foot of the Buddha

The pious Burmese family of Mr. and Mrs. Sein thun aung and their children have donated a sculptured model of the foot of the Buddha. It is three tons in weight, and is placed in the front area of the Simamalakaya.

Works of Sculpture Around the Simamalaka

On either side of the entrance to the Simamalaka on the wall, are beautiful works of sculpture, done in lime/cement plaster. The sculpture on the right depicts elaborately the unwholesome actions and their bad consequences, the wholesome actions and their good results. The sculpture on the left wall, tells the story of Sri Lanka’s 2500 year olf history and the important events in the Buddha Sasana.

Sri Jinaratana Technical College

In 1979, this technical college started with only four students, two to learn smithy’s work and the other two to re-build tyres. Today the number attending exceeds 3000, and the subects taught are numerous. There are branches in many parts of Sri Lanka. More than 75,000 people have had a free training in Technical and vocational Education. The number on the staff of Jinaratana Technical College is forty-five.

Subjects Taught in the Technical College

01. Tyre re-building

02. repairing Watches

03. Repairing Radios

04. Making Mattresses

05. House Wiring

06. Repairing Motor Bicycles

07. Repairing Boat Engines

08. Using and Repairing Industrial Machines

09. Driving

10. Plumbing

11. Drainage

12. Repairing Bicycles

13. Offset Printing

14. Repairing Batteries

15. Repairing Batteries

16. Type-writing and Roneo Training and Repairing

17. Forge/Metal Work

18. Welding

19. Lapidary

20. Air-conditioning (Residences/Motor Vehicles)

21. Repairing Air-conditiong Machines

22. Repairing Refrigerators

23. Beauty Therapy

24. Repairing Juki Machines

25. Book Binding

26. Leather Work

27. Brass Work

28. Sewing Garments

29. Silk Screen Printing

30. Repairing TV’s

31. Motor Mechanism

32. Tinkering

33. Paint Work

34. Motor Winding

35. Art Work

36. Photography

37. Printing

38. Production of Agricultural Tools

39. Filming

40. Coir Work

41. Metal Work

42. Repairing Diesel Pumps

43. Television Productions

44. Secretarial Work

45. Jewellery Making

46. Masonry

47. Carpentry

48. Three Wheeler Repairs

49. Electric Circuits in Vehicles

50. Computer Training and Repairs

There are about thirty affiliated Institutes. Some of them are in the following areas.

Veherahena, Galboda, Tissamaharamaya, Kataragama, Gintota, Ratnapura, Maduwanwala, Walauwa, Sri Sudharmarama Pirivena - Avissawella, Sri Mahindodaya Pirivena - Kegalle, Paramananda Pirivena - Akuressa, Sri Sunandaramaya - Ittepana, Katukenda, Dankotuwa, Horowpothana, Anuradhapura, Urumutta - Akuress, Mahailuppallama, Padaviya Thalawa and Kotte- Madiwela.

Meditation Training Centre - Pannipitiya

Bandaratilaka family donated three acres of lank known as ‘Veda Gedara’, agt Kalalgoda, Pannipitiya, to Gangaramaya. The technical college established here, gives free services to the children of the area.

Kutis have been constructed and a Meditation Centre also functions at Veda Gedara.

‘Suhada Home’ for the Disabled and the Elderly

Suhada Home built on a 31/2 acre lank is situated at Madewela, Kotte near the main road to Jayawardenepura Hospital. The four-storeyed building has residential facilities for 250 desabled children and 250 elderly people.

Chandani who has no arms, has been in the home from her early days. She writed with her feet. she has always been a clever student, the first in her class every year. Today she is qualified to follow a course in Law, at the University of Colombo.

Kataragama Pilgrims’ Rest

Pilgrims’ Rest at Kataragama, provides luxury accommodation and facilities free of charge. It is built on a 41/2 acre of land, made available by the late President R. Premadasa. The buildings which can accommodate up to 4000 pilgrims, are scattered on the 4 1/2 acre land.

This Pilgrims’ Rest affords a peaceful atmosphere conducive to religious observances. With the support of various people, Gangaramaya has been able to establish this place as a Sinhalese Buddhist Organization.

As one enters the Pilrims Rest Complex, a large serene statue of the Budhha, worth about 17 lakhs (35,000 dollars) meets the eye. The hundreds of little bells hanging from its canopy, chimes in the wind and lulls a person into peace and serenity.

Already four large halls, 60 bathrooms and a reception hall are completed. The 4000’x30’ hall is used for the rehabil itation of destitute children. On this premises are also 117 fully equipped cottages.

Cottages

A Cottage consists of two rooms 15’x14’ each with an attached bath/toilet and a ceiling fan. Each room has three beds. Mats can be spread on the floor for additional people.

The Verandah 14’x17’ has a ceiling fan, chairs and a sofa, which can seve as a bed.

The tiled bathroom 14x17’ in size has a commode, a squatting pan, a shower, a wash basin and a mirror.

The cottages have all the facilities of a hotel, but are free of charge, They are designed to provide peace, freedom and convenience for the thousands of pilgrims.

A few hundred destitute children, which would normally have no education, have accommodation in the Centre, built in the Complex. Here they receive an education in general and technical subjects.

Five Technicians have been given equipment to pursue their profession.

Among the many donations to the less-privileged people of the area are 4000 Bicycles, 30 Bullock Carts, 100 Cows, Mosquito Nets and other essential goods. A poor village of 50 families at Kataragama has got help to improve its condition.

Teak, Mahogany and Jak plants have been distribulted to the villagers with instructions and assistance to grow them. Help has been given to develop the land through agriculture.