The presidentship of the Mahabodhi Society of Sri Lanka for Ven. BanagalaUpatissaNayake Thero was the start of a glorious period for the society. He had to regain lost glory of society and overcome financial situation. His first priority was to approach well- wisher and philanthropist of the country to bring the society from the grip of empty wallet.

The year 2000 was the period of chaos and agony in Sri Lanka because of escalating civil war. The prolonged battle had destroyed and ruined the basic fabrics of the country and the land of Buddha with doctrine of Karuna and Metta had forgotten the morality and harmony. With others likeminded people, he shares his mental anguish and pain on violence and destruction. Very often he was asked by international community that what happened to essential Buddhist doctrine of compassion, kindness and morality in Sri Lanka. He had no answer except being ashamed. Many leaders and spiritual fraternity adopted cautious approach and refrained from any initiative fearing their life.

Having proved his capability and will power after establishing first Theravada Temple in Japan, he decided to contact waring groups, politicians, Prime Ministers, Tamil leaders and negotiator countries. He initiated dialogue with peace negotiators of Norway and Japan. Facing the wrath and displeasure of his own people he contacted LTTE ideologue and leader Mr. Anton Balasingham, Mr. Tamil Chelvam, Mr. Karuna Amman and Mr. Daya Master. After prolonged efforts and action conflict ended in 2009 at the price of hundred thousand people lost their life all human beings – Armed forces, Tamil fighters, Singhalese and Tamil citizens.

My purpose of this booklet is to highlight and synchronize his success and failure during 24 years of his yeomen services to society. Recognising his continued services with zeal, dedication and passion, he was invited to attend several international conferences, seminars and symposiums. The society was honoured to welcome many global head of the state, spiritual leaders and religious scholars. Being in fatigable traveller he always engaged in one or other activities for religious missions, social justice and education. He is always receptive to suggestions and views on national or international matters. He is a dedicated follower of Anagarika Dharmapala and a faithful custodian of his legacy.
He joined the Mahabodhi with clear vision and objectives. He had no hesitation or doubt about his projects and welfare schemes. To republish SinghalaBaudhaya, the dream paper of Anagarika Dharmapala was his utmost priority and within no time it was on the stand. His other priority was to regain assets and property of the society from the clutched of unauthorised persons.

Shakil Siddiqui