Dr. A. T. Ariyaratne Obituary – Cause of Death : Dr. A. T. Ariyaratne, Founder of Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement, Passes Away

Dr. A. T. Ariyaratne, the beloved founder of the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement and renowned Buddhist leader, has passed away in Sri Lanka at the age of 92. The news of his death has sent shockwaves through the Buddhist community and beyond, as he was a revered figure known for his dedication to social change and compassion.

Dr. Ariyaratne dedicated his life to promoting engaged Buddhism and working towards social justice in Sri Lanka. He founded the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement in 1958, with the aim of empowering rural communities and promoting self-reliance through collective action. Under his leadership, the movement grew to become one of the largest grassroots organizations in the country, with a focus on education, healthcare, and sustainable development.

Throughout his long and illustrious career, Dr. Ariyaratne was a tireless advocate for peace and reconciliation. He believed in the power of compassion and understanding to bring about positive change in society, and he worked tirelessly to promote interfaith dialogue and harmony among different communities in Sri Lanka.

Dr. Ariyaratne’s impact extended far beyond the borders of Sri Lanka. He was a respected figure in the international Buddhist community, and his teachings on non-violence and social justice inspired countless individuals around the world. He was awarded numerous accolades for his work, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership in 1969 and the Niwano Peace Prize in 1992.

The news of Dr. Ariyaratne’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from his followers and admirers. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the impact he had on their lives. His legacy will undoubtedly live on through the continued work of the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement and the countless individuals he inspired to strive for a more compassionate and just world.

As we mourn the loss of Dr. A. T. Ariyaratne, we are reminded of the profound impact that one person can have on the world through their dedication to social change and compassion. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to work towards a more peaceful and equitable society, guided by the principles of engaged Buddhism that he so passionately advocated for.