Legacy of Podi Hamuduruwo continues

The late Most Venerable Galboda Siri Gnanissara Thero, whom everyone knew with love and  respect as ‘Podi Hamuduruwo’, spent his life serving the Buddha Sasana and helping people. 

For many years, he gave leadership to the Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. He made the temple a place that was close to people from every part of society. It was not only a place of worship, but also a place where people could come for help, advice and  encouragement. 

Podi Hamuduruwo always paid special attention to children, young people and families facing difficulties. He supported Buddhist education, social welfare, youth development and  many programs that helped communities throughout Sri Lanka. 

He believed that the teachings of the Buddha should be practised by helping others. He brought together members of the Maha Sangha, devotees, professionals, government  institutions, donors and volunteers to carry out this service. 

Education was always very important to him. He knew that many talented children in rural  areas had to face financial difficulties. Some children who did well in their studies could not continue their education because their families did not have enough money. 

Podi Hamuduruwo believed that helping these children to study was one of the best services that could be offered to the country. He wanted them to receive a proper education, build good lives and become responsible citizens. 

Although he is no longer with us, the programs he began and the people he inspired  continue his work. The second-year commemoration of the late Most Venerable Galboda Siri Gnanissara Thero  will be held on Sunday, 2 August 2026. 

The program is being organised by the Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple under the guidance of Ven. (Dr.) Kirinde Assaji Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Temple, Colombo, and Sanghanayaka of the Colombo Nawa Koralaya under the Malwatta Chapter. 

The program will begin in the morning at Gangaramaya Temple. A ‘Maha Sangha Dana’ will be offered to 150 members of the Maha Sangha. Religious observances will also be held and merit transferred to the late Podi Hamuduruwo. 

The trustees, devotees, donors and well-wishers of Gangaramaya Temple are supporting the organisation of the program. 

One of the most important ways in which the service of Podi Hamuduruwo continues is through the Galboda Siri Gnanissara Memorial Scholarship Trust Fund, known as ‘Nena Isura’.

Today, ‘Nena Isura’ supports over 420 students from rural and less privileged areas in different  parts of Sri Lanka. These students have passed the Grade Five Scholarship Examination and  need assistance to continue their education up to the G.C.E. Advanced Level. 

The students come from areas including Monaragala, Kirinda, Padukka, Medagama,  Ridimaliyadda, Sooriyawewa, Akurassa and Kalutara. 

The program also supports students from families assisted by the Defence Ministry Seva Vanitha Unit, the Police Seva Vanitha Unit and the Tri-Forces Seva Vanitha Units. 

The scholarship students will come to Colombo with their parents on 2 August. They will first visit the Colombo National Museum and learn about the history, culture and heritage of Sri Lanka. 

They will also attend a special lecture by a university professor. The lecture will explain the importance of education and how it can help young people improve their lives and create a  better future. 

Afterwards, the students and their parents will visit Gangaramaya Temple. A special lunch will be provided for them at the temple. 

The students will also receive educational books, school supplies and other items they need  for their studies. 

The day will conclude with the ‘Nena Isura’ Scholarship Awards Ceremony from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Conference Hall, Temple Trees. 

The ceremony will be held under the patronage of Prime Minister and  Education,  Higher Education and Vocational Education Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. 

A new group of selected students will also receive scholarships on this occasion. 

Ambassadors, high commissioners, internationally recognised guests, education officials, government officials, students, parents, devotees, donors and other invited guests are expected to attend the ceremony. 

This program is not only about remembering Podi Hamuduruwo. It is also about  continuing the work that was closest to his heart. 

Every child who receives an education through ‘Nena Isura’ carries a part of his vision forward. In this way, the service and legacy of Podi Hamuduruwo will continue for many years to come.