Ven Galboda Gnanissara Thero, fondly known as Podi Hamuduruwo, has, throughout the years, beckoned thousands of devotees and individuals who had sought his guidance at the Gangaramaya Temple.
From a young novice monk of eight years to take over Gangaramaya Temple’s administrative responsibilities at the tender age of 16, Podi Hamuduruwo has over the years embraced and guided everyone.
Podi Hamuduruwo is a firm believer of the Buddha’s principles, and living to impart the knowledge that he has gained to society was his key principle. His thoughts and actions reflect the endeavor to promote betterment regardless of religion, ethnicity, and background throughout the years.
Since the initial start-up of the Jinarathana Vocational Training Institute, Podi Hamuduruwo has worked to ensure that the youth and children of all religions and ethnicities can receive vocational training and pursue English education. The institute provides a myriad of courses for the youth to gain hands-on experience.
Podi Hamuduruwo’s initiative was to bring the audio-visual language learning platform to Sri Lanka for the first time in 1976. Upon that, the first vocational training programs on electronic media were introduced by the Gangaramaya Temple.
Among many philanthropic deeds done by Podi Hamuduruwo, the ‘tree banks’ concept was implemented to merge with nature. As such, he was the pioneer to conceptualize many development initiatives that contributed towards the wellbeing of the environment and mankind.
Several selected areas throughout the island have been transformed into flourishing concepts that have benefitted the livelihoods of many. Be it model farms, meditation centers, educational institutes, or spiritual centers, they all have been instilled with only one good cause to encourage everyone to live in peace and harmony while learning life’s basic disciplines and values.
The unique Seema Malaka upon the Beira Lake exudes a serene ambiance amidst the bustling city. It is an ideal example to show the multicultural diversity that prevails on the island.
Touching on the development of cultural aspects was the inception of the Navam Perahera, held annually. It has been a spectacular cultural pageant that has been happening throughout the years. But due to the prevailing COVID-19 situation, the perahera is held following the health guidelines.
Even at the premises of the Gangaramaya Temple, one can witness the fusion of discipline and spirituality that has been built up over the years by Podi Hamuduruwo.
His inimitable character remains a source of strength and aspiration – a reassuring presence for all around him. Under his leadership, several have witnessed his virtues, forthrightness, and courage. He was always working towards setting an example. And it is to these very same qualities that can be attributed to the presence of his Venerable Thero, addressing the high-end business corporates in the country at the annual Business Today TOP 30. His blessings have continuously pervaded throughout the years on every occasion. It has been a privilege to be in the presence of such a dynamic Thero with an abundance of versatile wisdom as he converses with ease on any number of topics.
His kindness, generosity, and service to society is an example that was set by him. Podi Hamuduruwo has been a guiding strength with a concern for the betterment of everyone and with a forward vision that bound diverse cultures to take part in and benefit. With his birthday approaching on December 14th, we wish him a speedy recovery, and may the blessings of the Noble Triple Gem be with Podi Hamuduruwo.
His kindness, generosity, and service to society is an example that was set by him. Podi Hamuduruwo has been a guiding strength with a concern for the betterment of everyone and with a forward vision that bound diverse cultures to take part in and benefit. With his birthday approaching on December 14th, we wish him a speedy recovery, and may the blessings of the Noble Triple Gem be with Podi Hamuduruwo.
