Bhante Honoured at Vidyalankara Pirivena’s 150th Anniversary

On Sunday, 2 November 2025, the Most Venerable Katugastota Uparatana Nayaka Thera was honoured at the “Yelasiya Abiman” celebration marking the 150th anniversary of Vidyalankara Pirivena in Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

The ceremony, held at the Kelaniya Vidyalankara International Buddhist Conference Hall under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, brought together members of the Maha Sangha, public officials and well-wishers.

Bhante received an honorary title—a fitting recognition of his distinguished religious, educational and community service.

He was honoured alongside the Most Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maitrimurthi Thera, Mahanayaka of the Amarapura Maha Nikaya, and the Most Venerable Makulewe Vimala Thera, Mahanayaka of the Ramanna Maha Nikaya.

Founded on 1 November 1875, Vidyalankara Pirivena has long stood among Sri Lanka’s foremost centres of Buddhist and classical learning. Its legacy also gave rise to the institution that became the University of Kelaniya in 1978.

The Maryland Buddhist Vihara community rejoices in this recognition of Bhante’s decades of service to the Buddha Sāsana and to communities in Sri Lanka and the United States.

🙏 Sadhu! Sadhu!! Sadhu!!!

Source: News.lk, the Official Government News Portal of Sri Lanka — "Yelasiya Abiman" Celebration held under President's Patronage.