About Our Association

Dr. Walpola Piyananda Maha Nayaka Thero is a Sri Lankan Theravāda Buddhist monk, scholar, and visionary leader who has profoundly influenced the global Buddhist landscape. As the founding abbot of the Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara in Los Angeles, he has been instrumental in spreading Theravāda Buddhism to the West, promoting mindfulness, compassion, and ethical living. Thero's writings, including the celebrated Saffron Days in L.A., make the Buddha's teachings accessible to diverse audiences, bridging cultural and spiritual gaps.

Thero's dedication to reviving the Bhikkhuni lineage within Theravāda Buddhism has been equally transformative. His pivotal role in the 1996 Sarnath ordination ceremony helped re-establish the Bhikkhuni Order, empowering women to pursue the monastic path. Through continued guidance and ordinations, he has reinvigorated the Sangha, fostering equality and inclusivity in Sri Lanka and beyond. His life's work exemplifies a commitment to preserving and enriching the Buddha's teachings for future generations.

Most Venerable Dr. Walpola Piyananda Nayaka Thera has been our Upajjhāya since 2022. Thero inaugurated the Seema (higher ordination boundary) on his 79th birthday with Ubhato Sangha at Dhamma Center Inc. in Virginia, United States.

Venerable Thero's guidance has been instrumental in promoting both the Bhikkhu and Bhikkhuni lineages, increasing their visibility within Theravāda Buddhism in the United States and around the world.

Most Venerable Karandulena Dammagaveshi Thero is a forest monastic monk from Sri Lanka who has devoted himself to the monastic life since his ordination in 2006. Deeply committed to spreading the Dhamma, his teachings—rooted in personal experience—resonate with modern audiences, making the Buddha's message accessible and relevant today.

Each year, Venerable Thera travels to various countries, immersing himself in diverse cultural traditions and religious ceremonies, while also engaging in self-meditation in serene, natural settings. He has participated in Buddhist rituals, ceremonies, and rainy season retreats across the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, Italy, Greece, Canada, and Oman, further extending his global impact.

As the Dhamma Advisor/Director (Voluntary Virtual Service) to the Dhamma Center and Kassapa Aranna Hermitage in both Australia and Sri Lanka, Venerable Thero offers Dhamma advice and spiritual guidance through an online platform that fosters personal growth and deepens the understanding of the Buddha's teachings, positively touching lives around the world.

Bhante Yogavacara Rahula is a renowned American-born Buddhist monk, meditation teacher, and author. Ordained in the Theravāda tradition, he has spent over four decades as a monk, dedicating his life to studying and teaching the Dhamma. Bhante Rahula combines his deep understanding of traditional Buddhist teachings with a modern, practical approach to meditation and mindfulness.

Known for his engaging teaching style, Bhante Rahula emphasizes the integration of meditation practice with daily life. His teachings often include mindfulness of the body, breath meditation, and cultivating insight into the nature of the mind. He has conducted meditation retreats worldwide, inspiring countless practitioners to develop inner peace and wisdom.

Bhante Rahula is also the author of "One Night's Shelter", an autobiographical account of his spiritual journey, and "Traversing the Great Journey", which explores deeper aspects of the Buddha's teachings. Through his teachings, writings, and personal example, Bhante Rahula continues to inspire individuals to lead a mindful, compassionate, and meaningful life.

Katugastota Uparatana Thero exemplifies selflessness, wisdom, and compassion. As the head monk of the Maryland Buddhist Vihara, he has devoted his life to spreading the timeless teachings of the Buddha while fostering harmony across diverse communities. In 2022, Katugastota Uparatana Thero received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from U.S. President Joe Biden. This honor reflects his exceptional contributions to interfaith harmony, community service, and the global spread of Buddhism. His work underscores the universal relevance of the Dhamma in cultivating peace, wisdom, and compassion in today's divided world.

Katugastota Uparatana Thero's life is a beacon of hope, wisdom, and dedication. His ongoing efforts inspire individuals seeking peace and purpose, reminding us that spiritual leadership is about uplifting others and fostering unity. Through his teachings and actions, he continues to resonate with people from all walks of life, embodying the Buddha's profound message of kindness and understanding.

Thero's contributions to the Buddhist community and society at large are a testament to his unwavering commitment to service and wisdom. He has not only shaped the present but also laid a strong foundation for future generations to carry forward the principles of compassion, mindfulness, and unity. His life's work stands as a living legacy, proving that one individual, guided by higher purpose, can profoundly transform the world.