By Vipula Wanigasekera –

Dr. Vipula Wanigasekera

Throughout the long history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, renewal has rarely come from silence. It has emerged when courageous monks and lay scholars have been willing to ask difficult questions, challenge established practices, and encourage society to revisit the original teachings of the Buddha. Such voices have not always been welcomed. Yet history often proves that constructive criticism, when motivated by compassion and concern for the Sasana, can become a catalyst for positive change.

A couple of years ago, I wrote that Ven. Kekirawe Sudassana Thero had the potential to become one of the most influential reformist monks of his generation. That observation was not based on controversy but on his willingness to engage in public discussion on issues that many preferred to avoid. Through numerous interviews and discussions, he encouraged Buddhists to examine whether certain beliefs and practices commonly accepted today are genuinely rooted in the teachings of the Buddha or whether they have gradually evolved through cultural, historical, and social influences.

Kekirawe Sudassana Thero

One of the subjects he raised concerned the ordination of children at a very young age. His argument was not directed against monastic life itself but invited reflection on whether a child possesses the maturity required to make such a life-changing decision independently. It was a question worthy of discussion because Buddhism has always encouraged inquiry rather than blind acceptance.

Another area he highlighted was the administration of temples and the broader governance structures associated with religious institutions. His observations focused on transparency, accountability, and stewardship rather than criticism of individual monks or temples. In a modern society where public trust is increasingly important, such discussions can only strengthen religious institutions rather than weaken them.

He also explored the relationship between religion and politics, a topic that has generated debate for decades. Regardless of one’s position, it is difficult to deny that the issue deserves thoughtful examination. The Buddha’s teachings provide profound guidance on ethics, governance, and social harmony, yet the practical relationship between clergy and political power remains a matter that each generation must carefully evaluate.

Today, the image of the Buddhist clergy faces challenges. Media reports of misconduct involving a small minority inevitably affect public perceptions of the larger monastic community. Most monks continue to serve society with dedication, humility, and integrity. Nevertheless, periods of declining public confidence should encourage introspection rather than defensiveness.

It is in this context that the contribution of voices such as Ven. Kekirawe Sudassana Thero becomes significant. He did not seek to attack Buddhism. On the contrary, his discussions appeared motivated by a desire to protect its credibility and relevance in the modern world. A physician who identifies symptoms is not the enemy of the patient. Likewise, those who identify weaknesses within institutions are not necessarily enemies of those institutions.

Reports suggest that the Thero has reduced or discontinued some of his public discussions. If this is indeed the case, it would be unfortunate if thoughtful debate were lost. Constructive dialogue should not be viewed as a threat to the Sasana. Buddhism has survived for over two millennia precisely because it possesses the intellectual and spiritual strength to withstand scrutiny.

The future of the Sasana will not be secured merely by preserving traditions. It will be secured by preserving the spirit of inquiry that the Buddha himself encouraged. Reform and preservation are not opposing forces. They are complementary processes that ensure the continued vitality of a living tradition.

Whether one agrees with Ven. Kekirawe Sudassana Thero or not is ultimately secondary. What matters is the preservation of a space where important questions can be asked respectfully and discussed openly. Such conversations may occasionally cause discomfort, but they can also illuminate pathways toward renewal.

If the objective is the long-term well-being of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, then thoughtful reformers should not be feared. They should be heard. For it is often those who question the system, not to destroy it but to improve it, who render the greatest service to the Sasana.

*The writer is a former Diplomat, Head of Tourism Authority, Currently a lecturer in Commerce, Youtuber, Author, Meditation and Reiki Healer