Sunday Times 2
Sir Cyril de Zoysa: Pioneer of the 20th-century Buddhist renaissance
View(s):Appreciation
The remarkable contributions of Sri Lankan Buddhist devotees to the upliftment and preservation of Buddhism are immeasurable. Sir Cyril de Zoysa, often hailed as the “mighty son of Sri Lanka” and the most generous philanthropist of the 20th century, played a pivotal role in this renaissance. Born on October 26, 1896, in Balapitiya to an affluent family, he received his education at St. Thomas’ College, Matara, Richmond College, Galle, and Royal College, Colombo. He went on to study law at Ceylon Law College, qualifying as a proctor and practising at the Kalutara District Courts.
Sir Cyril de Zoysa
In 1951, he founded the Kalutara Bodhikara Mandalaya, which became a cornerstone for Buddhist activities. His vision transformed Kalutara into an attractive pilgrimage site through the construction of the Kalutara Chaitya and several Buddhist temples, monasteries, and Daham Pasalas in the area.
His contributions to restoring sacred Buddhist sites were equally significant. As the founding chairman of the Kataragama Kirivehera Restoration Society, Sir Cyril led the reconstruction of the Kirivehera Chaitya and developed critical infrastructure at the sacred site. He also ensured the availability of electricity by gifting a generator and taking responsibility for its maintenance, a gesture that transformed the area. His generosity played a major role in the development of Kataragama as we know it today.
His tireless efforts earned him the esteemed position of President of both the YMBA Borella and the Mahabodhi Society.
His entrepreneurial spirit was showcased through ventures like the Svarnapali bus service, which led to the establishment of the South Western Bus Company. His contribution to the transport sector continued when he handed over more than 200 buses, fully fuelled and equipped with spare parts, to the government during the nationalisation of bus services.
Beyond his spiritual contributions, Sir Cyril initiated textile manufacturing in Balapitiya, creating job opportunities by producing towels, bed linens, sarongs, and popular ready-made garments. He also pioneered tyre manufacturing in Sri Lanka, with his brother, V.T. de Zoysa, providing invaluable support.
Sir Cyril’s influence extended to the Gangaramaya Temple, where he formed a close bond with the then 16-year-old Chief Incumbent, Ven. Galboda Gnanissara Thera, who later became the Chief Sanganayaka of Kolamba Nava Koaralaya. Together, they fostered the spiritual and social force of the community. One of the significant initiatives launched by Ven. Gnanissara during his 75-year monkhood was spearheading the introduction of the Pracheena Scholarship Exam Fund, with substantial financial backing from Kalutara Bodhikara Mandalaya, underscoring Sir Cyril’s commitment to education.
Sir Cyril de Zoysa's vision transformed Kalutara into an attractive pilgrimage site through the construction of the Kalutara Chaitya
The contributions of Kalutara Bodhikara Mandalaya to society were vast, including donations of 51 houses to tsunami-affected families. His legacy is honoured through the Sir Cyril de Zoysa Memorial Centre, built by his son to commemorate his work, and through the establishment of a dedicated ward for monks at Nagoda Hospital.
Sir Cyril’s efforts in developing Meheni Arama, Dahama Pasals, Dharmasalas, Vatadages, and scholarship funds have left an indelible mark on the Buddhist community. His family continues to uphold his values, with his nephews Deshamanya Ajita de Zoysa and Deshabandu Tilak de Zoysa earning great respect for their dedication to social service. It is commendable to note grandnephew Ashan de Zoysa following in the footsteps of the family traditions.
A man of profound integrity, compassion, and vision, Sir Cyril de Zoysa was a unique figure whose contributions spanned spiritual, political, and industrial realms. His leadership roles included chairmanship of the Chamber of Commerce and initiatives for the National Society for the Deaf and Blind, as well as the National Programme for Tuberculosis Control. He also founded educational institutions like Kalutara Vidyalaya and Kalutara Balika Vidyalaya, solidifying his legacy in education.
His successful efforts to revive the London Buddhist Viharaya were instrumental in the renaissance of Buddhism. Sir Cyril dedicated much of his life and wealth to philanthropy, often reflecting, “Now I am free. However much wealth you may have, they are meaningless. My joy, my sense of freedom, and my contentment are Dhamma.” He lived these principles until his passing, embodying the true meaning of life.
Not every stone is a gem,
Not every tusk has Gajamuthu,
Not every forest has Sandun trees,
Not every man is as generous, compassionate, and noble as he is.
We commemorate the great noble service rendered by you on this 128th birth anniversary of yours.
- Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji
Chief Incumbent,
Gangaramaya Temple,
Chief Prelate of
Colombo Nawa Koralya