Watagedara Saddhatissa Thera’s demise great loss to Sasana - Media Minister

Matara: The late Ven. Watagedara Saddhatissa Thera, 91, of Matara, Aththudawa Sri Bodhirukkharamaya who was affectionately called Keliduwa Hamuduruwo has rendered a great service towards Buddhism and education.

His demise will be a great loss to the Sasana, said Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena in a condolence message issued to mark the passing away of the Thera.

Minister Abeywardena who is also Vice-President, Sri Rohana Sangha Sabha Dayaka Sabha and Secretary, Sri Lanka Amarapura Nikaya Abhiwurdi Dayaka Sabha said late Ven. Saddhatissa who was born as the fourth son of a leading and traditional Buddhist family in Keliduwa Watagedara in 1916 was ordained in 1937 under the tutelage of Ven. Wahala Kananke Sri Aththadassi Thera.

He received his higher ordination at the Malwatte Viharaya Uposathagaraya in 1940.

In 1946 he arrived at the Digana Avasaya at the invitation of Ven. Athtudawe Ratanapala Thera and helped to develop it into the Sri Bodhirukkarama Viharaya. In 1956 he helped to open a Daham Pasala at the venue to foster mental and spiritual development of Buddhist children in the area.

He was also instrumental in producing a large number of erudite pupils of whom the most outstanding are Ven. Sankapale Pannatissa Thera of Wapala Sirimangala Pirivena and Ven. Sankapale Pannasara Thera.

May he attain Nibbana.