Balangoda
Ananda Maitreya Thero (23 August 1896 – 18 July 1998) was a Sri Lankan scholar
Buddhist monk. He was highly respected by Sri Lankan Buddhists, who believe
that he achieved a higher level of spiritual development through meditation.Sri
Lankan Buddhists also considered Balangoda Ananda Maitreya Thero as a
Bodhisattva, who will attain Buddhahood in a future life. Balangoda Ananda
Maitreya Thero lived a modest life and did a great service for the propagation
of Buddhist philosophy. In recognition of his valuable service at the Sixth
Buddhist council held in Burma, the Burmese government conferred on him the
title "Agga Mahapandita" (Chief Great Scholar) in 1956. Later in
March 1997, the Burmese government conferred on Balangoda Ananda Maitreya Thero
the highest Sangha title, "Abhidhaja Maharatthaguru" (Most Eminent
Great Spiritual Teacher), which is equivalent to Sangharaja, in honor of his
unique service to the Buddhist
religion.
Books
