Founder of Maha Bodhi Society of India
Founded in 1891 with the mission of reviving Buddhism and preserving sacred places connected with the life of Lord Buddha.
Bodhisattva
Anagarika Dharmapala
The Visionary Who Revived Buddhism in India
A great patriot, scholar, social reformer and tireless devotee of Lord Buddha who dedicated his entire life to the revival of Buddhism and the restoration of the sacred places in India.
A Life Dedicated to the Dhamma
Bodhisattva Anagarika Dharmapala, one of the greatest pioneers in the revival and propagation of Buddhism, was born on 17th September 1864 in Matara, Sri Lanka (then Ceylon), into a respected Buddhist Sinhalese family. He was born as Don David Hewavitarne.
Although educated in missionary schools and expected by his father to pursue a civil service career, young David chose a different path. At the age of eighteen, he dedicated his life to the revival of Buddhism and the service of humanity. Embracing the Buddhist name “Dharmapala,” meaning Guardian of the Dhamma, he adopted a life of simplicity, discipline, and devotion. While not ordained as a monk at that time, he lived as an Anagarika — a homeless devotee committed to the Buddha Sasana and the observance of the Eight Precepts.
Anagarika Dharmapala played a historic role in restoring Buddhism in India, the land of its origin, and spreading awareness of the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha across the world. During his first visit to Bodh Gaya in January 1891, he was deeply saddened by the neglected condition of the sacred Maha Bodhi Temple, where Prince Siddhartha Gautama attained Supreme Enlightenment. Standing before the sacred Vajrasana, the Diamond Throne of the Buddha, he took a solemn vow to revive Buddhism in India and restore the holy Buddhist sites to their former glory.
Read More About His LifeHe later visited Sarnath, the sacred place where Lord Buddha delivered His First Sermon, and was equally distressed by its neglect. Determined to revive the spiritual importance of these holy places, he devoted his life to transforming them into vibrant centers of Dhamma activities once again.
To fulfill this mission, Bodhisattva Anagarika Dharmapala founded the Maha Bodhi Society of India in 1891. Through his relentless efforts, important Buddhist pilgrimage sites such as Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, Lumbini, and Kushinagar were rediscovered, preserved, and restored. He successfully inspired authorities and supporters to protect and maintain these sacred places for future generations.
In 1893, he represented Buddhism at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago, where his inspiring speeches received worldwide recognition and admiration. His participation introduced the teachings of the Buddha to the Western world and gained international support for Buddhist revival and humanitarian service activities.
Apart from his religious mission, Anagarika Dharmapala also worked tirelessly for social reform and justice. He dedicated himself to uplifting the poor, neglected, and underprivileged sections of society. His contributions to Buddhism and humanity earned him a lasting place in history as a visionary leader and compassionate reformer.
One of his greatest achievements was the restoration of Bodh Gaya as a rightful center of Buddhist worship and pilgrimage for Buddhists around the world. He also established the famous Mulagandha Kuti Vihara at Sarnath, near the sacred site where Lord Buddha delivered His first sermon.
On 13th July 1931, at the holy site of Isipatana in Sarnath, Varanasi, he formally entered the Buddhist monastic order and was ordained under the name Venerable Sri Devamitta Dhammapala. This ordination was historically significant, as it was the first ordination ceremony conducted at Sarnath after nearly 800 years. He later received his higher ordination on 16th January 1933.
After dedicating his entire life to the revival of Buddhism and the welfare of humanity, this great son of Buddhism passed away on 29th April 1933 at Sarnath, India. His passing left a profound void in the Buddhist world. His sacred ashes are enshrined in front of the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara at Sarnath, where devotees continue to pay homage to his remarkable life and contributions.
His Contributions
Restoration of Sacred Buddhist Sites
Spearheaded the restoration of Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya and other holy places associated with the Buddha.
Global Messenger of Buddhism
Represented Buddhism at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893 and spread the Dhamma across the world.
Social Reformer
Worked for the upliftment of society, promoted education and inspired people with ideals of compassion and service.
Life Journey
1864
Born on 17 September in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
1880s
Developed deep interest in Buddhism and dedicated his life to its revival.
1891
Founded the Maha Bodhi Society in Colombo.
1893
Delivered a historic speech on Buddhism at the Parliament of Religions, Chicago.
1891-1933
Traveled extensively across Asia, Europe and America for the cause of Buddhism.
1933
Attained Mahaparinirvana on 29 April in Sarnath, India.
“
The revival of Buddhism is not for the benefit of one community,
but for the good of all humanity.
- Anagarika Dharmapala
Some of his great sayings:
A collection of inspiring words and timeless teachings by Bodhisattva Anagarika Dharmapala that reflect his vision of compassion, wisdom, peace, and the revival of Buddhism for the welfare of humanity.
Audio of Bodhisatva Anagarika Dharmapala
Founder Gallery
