Palane Vajiragnana Thero

Palane Vajiragnana Thero (1878–1955) was a highly respected Sri Lankan Sinhala Buddhist monk, scholar, and spiritual leader who left an indelible mark on the Buddhist landscape of the island. He is most renowned for establishing the Siri Vajiraramaya temple in Bambalapitiya, Colombo, which became a significant center for Buddhist learning and practice. For 37 years, from 1918 until his passing, he held the esteemed position of Maha Nayaka (head) of the Amarapura Sri Dharmarakshita sect, guiding its spiritual and administrative affairs.

Life and Historical Context

Born Aron Pandita Gunawardena in Pelene, Weligama, on July 28, 1878, he hailed from a scholarly family; his father was Muhandiram Don Andris Tudawe Pandita Gunawardene, an Oriental scholar, and his mother was Dona Gimara Serasinghe. His early education provided a foundation in both vernacular and English, preparing him for a life of learning. At the age of 15, on July 20, 1890, he embraced monastic life as Palane Vajiranana, ordained under the guidance of Weragampita Siri Revata Maha Thera. His academic pursuits continued at Vidyodaya Pirivena in Colombo, under the tutelage of Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Mahanāyaka Thera, where he excelled, earning the Siyāmarāja Prize in 1900. He received his higher ordination on April 20, 1900.

Establishment of Siri Vajirārāmaya Temple

The genesis of the Siri Vajiraramaya temple began in the 1880s with the formation of the Dharma Samagama in Bambalapitiya. This society eventually led to the construction of a Dharma Sala and a small dwelling. In 1901, the young Pelene Vajirañāna was invited to reside there, marking the beginning of the temple's development. Under his leadership, the temple grew, incorporating a Bo tree symbolizing enlightenment and a Vihara-ge with a Buddha image. The temple also became a hub for intellectual activity, with a library built in 1909 and the Vajirārāma Dhamma School established in 1918, which educated future prominent Sri Lankan politicians.

Scholarship and Contributions

Palane Vajiragnana Thero was deeply knowledgeable in the Buddhist Tipitaka, its commentaries, and sub-commentaries, earning the admiration of his students. His scholarly writings were compiled and published as 'Sri Vajrañāna Sahitya'. He was recognized early for his intellectual prowess, becoming a member of the Pracheena Bhasopakara Samitiya at the young age of 27. He was a contemporary of many influential figures, including Anagarika Dharmapala and Sir D. B. Jayatilaka. His commitment to disseminating Buddhist teachings extended to journalism, as he founded the Sinhala magazine 'Bauddha Lamaya' in 1937, and English and Sinhala magazines aimed at children and the broader Buddhist community.

Broadcasting and Vajirārāmaya Tradition

A significant milestone in his career was becoming the first Buddhist monk to broadcast a sermon over the radio in Sri Lanka on April 21, 1928. His effective sermon delivery style became a model for others. Palane Vajiragnana Thero was also a staunch advocate for the strict observance of monastic discipline (Pāṭimokkha). This adherence defined the monks of Vajirārāmaya, who were recognizable by their practices and the unique 'Vajirārāma-colour' of their robes. These rules and traditions were formally laid down in the Vajirārāma Katikavata of January 12, 1940.

Legacy and Death

Palane Vajiragnana Thero passed away on September 21, 1955. His funeral was a grand state-sponsored event, attended by an estimated half a million people, reflecting his widespread influence and the deep respect he commanded across all segments of society. His passing was mourned as the loss of a great scholar, a living example of monastic discipline, and a pillar of the Sambuddha Sasana.