London Buddhist Vihara
The London Buddhist Vihara is a significant Theravada Buddhist temple in the United Kingdom, notable as the first Sri Lankan Buddhist monastery established outside of Asia. Founded in 1926 by Anagarika Dharmapala, it has a history of relocating before settling in its current Chiswick premises.
Key Facts
- ›Established in 1926 by Anagarika Dharmapala.
- ›It was the first Sri Lankan Buddhist monastery founded outside of Asia.
- ›The current building, designed by Norman Shaw, is Grade II listed.
- ›Managed by the Anagarika Dharmapala Trust in Colombo.
- ›The Vihara has relocated several times before settling in its current Chiswick location.
- ›Ven. Bogoda Seelawimala Nayaka Thera is the current chief bhikkhu and Chief Sangha Nayaka of Great Britain.
Important Relationships
- Anagarika Dharmapala
- Anagarika Dharmapala Trust
- Mary E. Foster
- Sir Cyril de Zoysa
- Narada Nayaka Thera
- Hammalawa Saddhatissa Nayaka Thera
- Dr Medagama Vajiragnana Nayaka Thera
- Ven. Bogoda Seelawimala Nayaka Thera
- Richard Norman Shaw
- Edward John May
Grade Ii Listed Building
Founding In 1926, Relocation To Gloucester Road, Reopening In Ovington Square In 1955, Move To Heathfield Gardens In 1964, Move To Present Premises In Chiswick In 1994
Victorian
About London Buddhist Vihara
The London Buddhist Vihara is a prominent Theravada Buddhist temple situated in the United Kingdom. It holds historical significance as the first Sri Lankan Buddhist monastery to be established outside of Asia. Since its inception, the Vihara has served as a vital center for Buddhist practice and community.
History and Establishment
The Vihara was founded in 1926 by the visionary Anagarika Dharmapala, a key figure in the Buddhist revival movement. Initially, it was established with the support of benefactors such as Mary E. Foster, who financed 'Foster House' in Ealing. The temple's establishment outside of Asia marked a significant step in the global spread of Theravada Buddhism. The Vihara has undergone several relocations throughout its history. After its early days in Ealing and a period on Gloucester Road, it was requisitioned during the Second World War, leading to the monks' temporary return to Ceylon. It reopened in 1955 in Ovington Square, Knightsbridge, under the impetus of Sir Cyril de Zoysa. Further moves led it to Heathfield Gardens in 1964 before settling in its present location at The Avenue, Chiswick, in 1994.
Building and Management
The current building housing the London Buddhist Vihara was originally the social club for the Bedford Park garden suburb. The exterior architecture was designed by the renowned architect Richard Norman Shaw in 1877-8, with the interior, now considerably modified, designed by Edward John May. The building's architectural merit was recognized with its Grade II listing in 1970. The Vihara is managed by the Anagarika Dharmapala Trust, based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Current Role and Leadership
As of the information available, Ven. Bogoda Seelawimala Nayaka Thera serves as the chief bhikkhu of the Vihara and also holds the position of Chief Sangha Nayaka of Great Britain. The temple hosts several resident bhikkhus from Sri Lanka and actively engages in religious Buddhist activities, continuing its role as a central hub for the Theravada Buddhist community in the region.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the London Buddhist Vihara founded?
The London Buddhist Vihara was founded in 1926 by Anagarika Dharmapala. This marked the establishment of the first Sri Lankan Buddhist monastery outside of Asia.
What is the history of the Vihara's location?
The Vihara was initially established in Ealing, then moved to Gloucester Road. After being requisitioned during WWII, it reopened in Ovington Square in 1955, moved to Heathfield Gardens in 1964, and finally to its present premises in Chiswick in 1994.
Who designed the current Vihara building?
The exterior of the Vihara building was designed by Richard Norman Shaw in 1877-8. The interior, though now modified, was designed by Edward John May.
What is the significance of the London Buddhist Vihara?
It holds historical importance as the first Sri Lankan Buddhist monastery established outside of Asia. It continues to be a main Theravada Buddhist temple in the UK, actively engaging in religious activities.
Who manages the London Buddhist Vihara?
The Vihara is managed by the Anagarika Dharmapala Trust, which is based in Colombo.
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