Bishuddhananda Mahathera

Bishuddhananda Mahathera (1909–1994) was a prominent Bangladeshi Buddhist monk and scholar. His life's work was dedicated to the propagation of Buddhism and the welfare of the Buddhist community, particularly in the Chittagong region.

Early Life and Monastic Vows

Born on February 23, 1909, in Hoarapara, Raozan Upazila, Chittagong District, British India, Mahathera received his early education at Noapara High School and Mahamuni Anglo Pali School. He took his monastic vows in 1925 and completed them in 1930, embarking on a lifelong path of religious service and scholarship.

Scholarship and Public Service

Mahathera pursued further studies in Buddhism in Sri Lanka from 1934 to 1937, where he earned a higher degree. Upon his return, he was instrumental in establishing numerous Buddhist temples and educational institutions. During the devastating Great Bengal Famine of 1943, he actively participated in relief efforts alongside notable figures like Maniruzzaman Islamabadi and Benimadhab Barua. He also founded the Agrasar Anathalay, an orphanage dedicated to providing care for Buddhist orphans.

Advocacy and Recognition

In his later career, Mahathera played a significant role in public life. He was appointed to the Buddhist scholarship committee by the Government of Pakistan and founded the Bangladesh Bauddha Kristi Prachar Sangha in 1949. He successfully advocated for the inclusion of Tripitaka readings on public radio. His humanitarian contributions earned him the Gandhi Peace Prize, although he was also awarded the Tamgha-e-Pakistan by the Government of Pakistan, an award he later renounced. During the Bangladesh Liberation War, he took steps to ensure the safety of the Buddhist community through special cards.

Death

Bishuddhananda Mahathera passed away on March 2, 1994, in Chittagong District, Bangladesh. He was laid to rest in Hoarapara, Raozan Upazila, at the Sudarshan Vihar, marking the end of a life devoted to spiritual practice and social service.