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Vision and Mission

His core objective is to transform society by integrating the spiritual teachings of Buddhism with practical, day-to-day life techniques. By combining these practices with active social volunteerism, he aims to inspire meaningful social change and contribute to the betterment of humanity. He is celebrated for his ability to identify individual talents and guide people to achieve their highest potential, transcending ethnic, religious, and social differences.

Founding Umandawa Global Buddhist Village

As the Founder and Spiritual Leader of the Umandawa Global Buddhist Village in Malsiripura, the Thero has cultivated a 100-acre sanctuary dedicated to organic agriculture, product innovation, and mental and physical wellbeing. Under his leadership, Umandawa has achieved several remarkable milestones:

  • He introduced the concept of ‘Spiritual Tourism’ to Sri Lanka for the very first time.
  • He established a model farm and product innovation centre that teaches home-industry-based revenue generation, an entrepreneurship model now replicated by thousands of households globally.
  • He provides regular, free-of-charge residential training programs on organic agriculture to other institutions and organizations.
  • His efforts led Umandawa to become a finalist at the 2022 ‘We are Together’ international awards in Moscow, recognized for its effective contribution to changing food habits for societal wellbeing.

Key Achievements and Societal Impact

Beyond Umandawa, Venerable Siri Samanthabhadra Thero is a prolific author and active social reformer.

  • He has authored over 200 publications on spirituality and personal development, which is the highest number of Buddhist publications in Sri Lanka.
  • He conceptualized and built the first and only geriatric hospital in the North Central province, generously donating it to the Ministry of Health.
  • He serves as a member of the National Science and Technology Commission of Sri Lanka and actively advises the government on economic revival and productivity improvements.
  • He has built strong inter-religious and inter-ethnic harmony, alongside fostering international relationships with leaders in countries like Canada, Thailand, and India.