Sanjoy Kumar Barua
In the tranquil hills of Chittagong, where the echoes of Theravāda Buddhism resonate through lush landscapes, one name stands as a paragon of wisdom, compassion, and transformative leadership:Sangha Raja Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir.
Born on November 18, 1925, in the rural village of Raozan, Chittagong, Jnanasree has forged a path of extraordinary spiritual dedication, humanitarian service, and social advocacy that has spanned over seven decades.
As he approaches the extraordinary milestone of his centenary, his life’s work continues to reverberate across continents, illuminating the lives of individuals and communities with a vision that is as spiritually profound as it is socially impactful
Born Lokanath Barua into the respected Barua family, Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s formative years were marked by profound personal loss.
The untimely death of his mother during his youth left an indelible mark on his heart, yet this tragedy became the crucible in which his resolute spirit and unshakable compassion were forged.
From an early age, it was clear that his journey would transcend personal grief, reaching toward the service of humanity and the spiritual liberation of all sentient beings.
At the age of 19, he made a momentous decision that would chart the course of his remarkable life: to embrace the monastic path.
In 1944, under the tutelage of the revered Ven. Gunalangkar Mahasthavir, he entered the monastic order at Jobra Sugata Buddha Vihara in Hathazari, Chittagong, receiving the name Saranananda Samanera.
Just five years later, in 1949, he was fully ordained as a monk and bestowed the name Jnanasree Mahasthavir, signaling the commencement of his extraordinary journey as a spiritual guide and advocate for social change.
Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s impact in the fields of social welfare, education, and community development is unparalleled.
Guided by his conviction that the true practice of Buddhism lies not only in meditation but in the active alleviation of human suffering, he pioneered a legacy of compassion that transcends the boundaries of religious affiliation.
As the abbot of Mirzapore Shantidham Buddha Vihara (1949–1954), he laid the foundation for his long-standing commitment to humanitarian service.
His establishment of the Jataka Parishad, a visionary social welfare organization, marked the beginning of an era of transformative social action.
Over the years, he has established 17 institutions, including orphanages, schools, and meditation centers, transforming the socio-economic fabric of Bangladesh’s marginalized communities to serve as beacon of hope.
These include the Kadalpur Pyari Mohan Sumantissa Buddhist Orphanage (1983), the Moanoghar Shishu Sadan (1974) in Rangamati , and the West Binajuri High School (1999), all of which provide vital services to orphaned children, the poor, and the spiritually disenfranchised.
Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s philosophy was simple yet profound: true compassion is embodied in tangible acts of service.
His institutions have, for decades, offered sanctuary to thousands of children, enabling them to receive education, shelter, and the guidance necessary to break the cycle of poverty.
His vision of a just and compassionate society continues to inspire leaders and activists who are dedicated to building a world rooted in equity, kindness, and shared responsibility.
Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s influence is not confined to the borders of Bangladesh; he is a true global luminary in the Buddhist community.
His remarkable work in preserving and revitalizing Buddhist heritage, both within Bangladesh and across India’s West Bengal region, has ensured that the teachings of the Buddha endure for future generations.
His contributions to the restoration of sacred stupas and temples stand as a testament to his dedication to the spiritual and cultural preservation of Buddhism.
Beyond the borders of South Asia, Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s outreach extended to Thailand, Myanmar, and other Buddhist nations, where his teachings and humanitarian efforts have had a profound impact.
He fostered a network of devoted followers and spiritual institutions that continue to flourish under his guidance, extending the reach of Buddhism to those in need of spiritual solace.
In 2020, his appointment as the 13th Sangha Raj of the Bangladesh Buddha Bhikkhu Sangha marked the culmination of his lifetime of service to the monastic community.
As Sangha Raja, Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir provides visionary leadership, ensuring that the monastic order remains deeply rooted in the principles of compassion, wisdom, and ethical conduct.
His leadership is characterized by a humility that is both rare and deeply impactful, motivating monastics and laypeople alike to dedicate themselves to the path of peace, justice, and spiritual awakening.
The profound impact of Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s work has been recognized on an international scale, with numerous prestigious awards and honors bestowed upon him in recognition of his selfless service to both Buddhism and humanity.
Among these honors is the Ekushey Padak, awarded by the Government of Bangladesh in 2022, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the nation.
Additionally, he has received the Sashasna Shovana Gyana Vanak (Thailand, 1981), the Babasaheb Dr. Ambedkar Award (India, 2022), and the Agga Mahapandita title (Myanmar, 2023), underscoring his reputation as a global icon of spiritual leadership and humanitarian service.
These accolades, however, do not capture the full extent of the reverence in which he is held.
His life’s work continues to inspire not only Buddhists but also social reformers, human rights advocates, and individuals seeking to build a more compassionate world.
Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s intellectual contributions are equally remarkable.
As a scholar, translator, and author, he has played a pivotal role in making Buddhist teachings accessible to Bengali-speaking audiences, thereby preserving the timeless wisdom of the Buddha for generations to come.
His seminal works, including Buddha Niti Manjuri (1965), Jataka Bali, and Ananda, serve as essential texts for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Buddhist philosophy and practice.
His writings transcend religious doctrine, offering profound insights into the human condition, suffering, and the transformative power of compassion.
Each of his texts is a reflection of his unwavering commitment to relieving human suffering and fostering spiritual awakening.
Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s words continue to resonate globally, inspiring individuals to cultivate mindfulness, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.
As Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir approaches the milestone of his 100th birthday, his legacy remains vibrant, powerful, and alive.
His institutions, his teachings, and his unyielding commitment to the welfare of humanity continue to thrive across the world.
From the Chittagong Hill Tracts to north districts of Bangladesh and the serene monasteries of Myanmar to the sacred temples of Thailand, his influence continues to guide and inspire.
In his own words, “May my disciples continue to work for the welfare of humanity, society, and the country.”
These words encapsulate the essence of a life devoted to the service of others, a life that has transformed countless individuals and communities, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Ven. Jnanasree Mahasthavir’s life is a powerful reminder that the path to enlightenment is not an individual journey but one that calls upon each of us to act with compassion, integrity, and an unshakable dedication to the betterment of the world around us.
His legacy of service, wisdom, and moral clarity will continue to inspire future generations to build a world where love, justice, and peace reign supreme.
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