News
Large crowds at Gangaramaya temple pay their last respects to Podi Hamuduruwo
View(s):The cremation of the Chief incumbent of the Gangaramaya Temple Colombo Galboda Gnanissara Thera will take place with state patronage tomorrow at 3 p.m. in the grounds located opposite the temple.
Ven Gnanissara Thera, popularly known as Podi Hamuduruwo passed away at a private hospital on Friday at the age of 81.
The remains of the Threa were brought to the Gangaramaya temple last morning, and large crowds were seen paying their last respects. 
The Viharadhikari of Gangaramaya temple, Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thera, and officials met on Friday to discuss funeral arrangements. Chief of Defence Staff, General Shavendera Silva, was also present at the temple to make the arrangements.
Born on December 14, 1943, in the Galboda village of Kamburupitiya, he was ordained at the age of 11 on November 8, 1954.
His parents were Galaboda Kankanamge Don Maddumage and Amara Wickrema Liyanage Selena. He was the third in the family.
He was the youngest monk at the Gangarama temple at that time and therefore came to be known as Podi Hamuduruwo.
When the Thera was 16 years old, he had to take over the responsibilities of the temple and take care of the then incumbent of the temple, Ven Dewundara Sri Wachissara Thera, who had lost his sight. He was involved in temple activities as well as looked after the chief incumbent while he was studying at Vidyalankara Pirivena.
Ven Gnanissara Thera founded the Jinaratana technical college and provided technical knowledge to thousands of youth. Apart from that, nearly 30 institutes affiliated with the Jinarathana Technical College have been set up islandwide.
He was known for his visionary leadership, and state leaders and politicians sought his advice.
The Thera was also instrumental in organising the Navam Perahera, which has turned into a popular annual event.
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