Guardians of the Dhamma
The lineage of monks who have dedicated their lives to preserving the teachings and serving the people of Giriulla.
Venerable Damanevela Nandasiri Thero
- Lay Name: Idame Herath Mudiyanselage Gunapala
- Born: January 27, 1953
- Ordained: June 12, 1967
- Education: Gangodawila Subhadrarama Vidyayathana Pirivena
Current Chief Incumbent
Venerable Damanevela Nandasiri Thero stands as a pillar of spiritual and educational guidance for the Giriulla region. Born in the village of Damanevela in the Ampara District, he entered the monastic life at the tender age of 14, guided by his mentors Ven. Senapathiye Jinarathana Thero and Ven. Batadeniye Rathanapala Nayaka Thero.
Educational Journey
His pursuit of knowledge led him to the renowned Gangodawila Subhadrarama Vidyayathana Pirivena in 1968. He later honed his skills as an educator at the Mirigama Bauddha Dharmacharya Teacher Training College. He received his Higher Ordination (Upasampada) from the Malwathu Chapter in 1978 and later from the Asgiriya Chapter in 1984.
Service to Society
Beyond his spiritual duties, Ven. Nandasiri Thero has been a dedicated public servant. His career as an educator began in 1978, leading him to serve as the Deputy Principal of Ampara Damanevela Government School.
His most significant impact was felt at Madurapitiya Junior School, where he served for 15 years. He revived the school, increasing its student population and personally funding the development of the school playground. He also upgraded the Damanevela School curriculum, enabling rural students to reach the G.C.E. Ordinary Level and pursue higher education.
Currently, he leads Atupothdeniya Purana Viharaya, where he has systematized the Sri Gunananda Dhamma School, earning it national recognition.
The Junior Incumbent
Ven. Sandunpura Amarawansa Thero
Serving as the resident junior monk, Ven. Amarawansa Thero assists in the daily rituals and community services of the temple, ensuring the continuity of the monastic traditions.
Our Lineage
1800s
Ven. Dompe Dammarathana Thero
Historical records indicate his residence during the early 19th century, followed by Ven. Hinadure Thero.
Recent Past
Ven. Lunugama Gunananda Thero
A pivotal figure in the temple's modern history.
Past
Ven. Thennagama Pagnarama Thero
served the community before the current incumbency.
Community We Serve
The temple serves over 375 families across several villages in the Gampaha District.