Honouring Bhante on His 72nd Birthday

The 72nd birthday of the Bhante Uparatana was celebrated with gratitude and affection by devotees at Maryland Buddhist Vihara and in Sri Lanka.

At MBV, members of the community came together to honour Bhante and offer their respectful birthday wishes, recognising his many decades of service to the Buddha Sāsana, Buddhist education and the wider community. The occasion was an opportunity to express appreciation for his spiritual guidance, kindness and dedicated leadership.

In Sri Lanka, Bhante’s birthday was commemorated through a community blood donation programme organised by the lay devotees’ association of Sri Bodhirukkarama Vihara. This noble act of service reflected the Buddhist virtues of generosity and compassion, offering practical assistance to those in need while honouring Bhante’s lifelong commitment to the welfare of others.

Together, these observances reflected the deep respect and affection held for Bhante by communities in both Sri Lanka and the United States.

May Bhante be blessed with good health, happiness and long life, and may his noble service continue for many years to come.

🙏 Sadhu! Sadhu!! Sadhu!!!

As part of the birthday observances in Sri Lanka, a special meal and birthday cake were offered to children at a residential children’s home. The children shared heartfelt wishes for Bhante’s good health, long life and continued service to the Buddha Sāsana.

Practitioners at MBV celebrates Bhante’s 72-year-old birthday with him.