Conclusion of Sama Pada Yathra

• The quiet architect of a national awakening: A tribute to Most Venerable Pannila Ananda Thera

Venerable Pannila Ananda Nayaka Thera

 By Athula Ranasinghe

At moments of national significance, it is often the visible figures who receive recognition. Yet, history is equally shaped by those who work with quiet determination behind the scenes. It is in this spirit that we must place on record the silent yet formidable contribution of Most Venerable Pannila Ananda Thera, Chief Incumbent of Attanagalla Raja Maha Viharaya, whose visionary guidance was instrumental in the successful culmination of the recent Sama Pada Yathra—the Walk for Peace.

This remarkable seven-day pilgrimage commenced at the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura on 21 April, covering nearly 250 kilometres under strenuous weather conditions. Led by Venerable Pannakara Thera and a devoted delegation of monks, the journey symbolised endurance, faith, and an unwavering commitment to peace. It concluded yesterday.

The pilgrimage carried with it a sacred sapling of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi along with revered relics, embodying a message of mindfulness, compassion, and unity. It drew participation and support from all communities—Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims alike—transforming the journey into a living testament to Sri Lanka’s pluralistic harmony.

The ceremonial conclusion at Independence Square in Colombo, held under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, marked not merely the end of a physical journey but the affirmation of a collective spiritual aspiration. The presentation of the sacred Bo sapling to the head of the delegation signifies continuity—of faith, of tradition, and of shared purpose.

This modern-day Pada Yathra echoes the ancient traditions inspired by the Buddha himself. More importantly, it has rekindled a sense of unity at a time when the nation seeks healing and reconciliation. By transcending ethnic and religious boundaries, the pilgrimage has fostered goodwill and mutual respect among diverse communities.

Outreach across religious lines

Noteworthy is the delegation’s outreach across religious lines, including visits to a Hindu kovil in Matale and a mosque in Akurana. Such gestures reinforce a powerful message: that coexistence is not merely an ideal, but a lived reality in Sri Lanka’s cultural fabric.

The journey also paid homage to key religious landmarks such as the Aluvihara Temple in Matale and the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, reaffirming Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage to the world. Along its route through villages, farmlands, and plantations, the pilgrimage uplifted local communities—economically and spiritually—while offering countless citizens, including schoolchildren, an unforgettable experience of devotion and unity.

Equally moving were the spontaneous acts of generosity by villagers, who laid banana leaves on heated roads to ease the pilgrims’ path—simple yet profound expressions of compassion that defined the spirit of this journey.

Strategic influence

Behind this extraordinary endeavour stands the steady and strategic influence of Most Venerable Pannila Ananda Thera. His role, though unobtrusive, was pivotal in conceptualising, guiding, and sustaining this national movement. Such leadership—marked by humility, foresight, and dedication to the Dhamma—deserves the highest recognition.

As Sri Lanka honours this historic event with state patronage, it is both fitting and necessary to acknowledge the architect behind its success. The legacy of this pilgrimage will endure—not only in memory, but in the renewed spirit of unity it has inspired across the nation.

Though Ven Pannila Thera needs no formal introduction, this successful conclusion of the memorable walk recorded in the annals of contemporary history deserves a brief reference on this historical occasion.

Venerable Pannila Ananda Nayaka Thera is the founding President and Abbot of the Houston Buddhist Vihara. He also serves as the Sangha Chief (Nayaka Thera) of the Attanagalla Rajamaha Vihara and holds the esteemed position of Chief Head Monk of the Four Koralas (Hathara Koralaya), one of the oldest and most prestigious monastic jurisdictions in Sri Lanka.

Ven. Ananda Nayaka Thera earned a B.A. (Honours) in Pali Language and Buddhist Studies from Vidyalankara University of Kelaniya in 1969. Subsequently, he received a scholarship to pursue higher studies in Japan, where he attended Kyoto University and Osaka University, obtaining diplomas in Japanese Buddhist Studies and the Japanese Language.

After completing his studies in Japan, Ven. Ananda Thera migrated to the United States. Together with Walpola Piyananda Nayaka Thera, he served at the Los Angeles Buddhist Vihara. In 1988, with the support of Dr. Bandula Wijay and Mrs. Shani Wijay, he established the Houston Buddhist Vihara. In recognition of his outstanding service to the Buddha Sasana and his profound knowledge of the Dhamma, he was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2001 by the College of Buddhist Studies.

Ven. Ananda Nayaka Thera’s contributions to Sri Lanka are exceptional. During his tenure as the abbot of Attanagalla Rajamaha Vihara, he oversaw the construction and donation of 14 school buildings. Furthermore, he leads a charitable initiative that provides monthly scholarships to over 800 medical and other students across Sri Lanka.

A model of leadership in the Buddhist monastic community, Ven. Ananda Nayaka Thera enjoys the admiration and support of followers in China, Japan, Taiwan, and the United States. Recognizing his integrity, vision, and capability, many supporters generously contribute to his charitable endeavors.

As a distinguished figure in the Sri Lankan Buddhist Sangha, he has brought great honor to the nation through his religious, educational, and social initiatives. His efforts in organizing significant religious events have won the hearts of many and strengthened national and spiritual unity.

It is our sincere hope that Ven. Ananda Nayaka Thera will continue his noble mission with unwavering dedication, profound scholarship, and tireless service—leaving a lasting legacy within the Sangha and the broader global Buddhist community

This article is a fitting tribute for the magnificent role played by Ven Ananda Nayake Thero behind the scene for the successful completion of this mega Pada Yatha walk and all Sri Lankans are indebted to him for the mental solace and happiness he inconculcated in all Sri Lankans.

(The author is attached to Gaveshi Foundation, Gampaha)

Pix by Shehan Gunasekera