His Holiness Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh

Name: Mr. Lokonath Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Jnanashree Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Prem lal Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Menka Barua.  

Date of Birth: Wednesday, 18^th November 1925 AD.

Period of Supreme Patriarch: 2020 – running years.       

Village: West Gujara Domkhali, Upazila: Raozan, District: Chittagong, Bangladesh

Education and Monastic Life:  

This religious saint was born in a remote village called ‘West Gujara Dhumkhali’ of Raozan Upazila on Chittagong, Bangladesh at 18th November 1925 AD, Wednesday. His family name is Lokonath Barua. His Father Name is Late Prem lal Barua and Mother Name Late Menka Barua. His father was a service holder of Bengal British Police department and mother was a pious housewife. 

Suddenly one day his mother was died. When his mother was died his father again married to Snehalata Barua for take care of Child Lokonath. Because of mothers die boy Loknath was so upset  but he grew up with brave, energetic and piously by his step mother Snehalata Barua and Father’s affectionate love .His life was spend with various problem on side of Halda rivers plain. In 1932 he started his student life in native Primary School and finished there till class 5. But during this time when Second World War (1939-1945) broke out around with dangerous situation then boy Lokonath’s study was stopped for a while. On other hand Loknonath was bewildered about Father’s Illness and families deficiency situations. Suddenly his family fallout when grandmother  also  died. At this situation his Uncle Nagendra lal Barua (Sarananda Mathera) were stand with them . His uncle had Business in Akiyab of Myanmar but not interested on family life but in Monastic life. So when he got back from Myanmar he admitted to Monastic life at West Binajuri Shmashan Vihara and got a name with Rev. Saranananda Samanera. Rev.Sarananda when  promoted to Samanera to Bhikkhu then he brought up the boy Lokonath with him from Dumkhali to Binajuri . According to see his eagerness to study and talent he took with him for a while at Binajuri Shmashan Bihar and then dedicated him to Upasangharaj Ven. Gunalangkar Mahathera as disciple.

Higher Ordination and Education

Mr. Lokanath was much closed to touch various religious activities and circumstance at temple when he studying since primary education. Besides he studies Buddhists scriptures and learning Buddha studies with eagerly from his preceptor Upasangharaj Gunalangkar Mahathera. In 1944 AD pious boy Lokonath admitted to as Novice of monkhood called Samanera as disciple of Upasangharaj Ven.Gunalangkar Mahathera at Jobra Sugata Bihar of Hathazari, Chittagong. Ven Gunalangkar named his new disciple “Jnanashree” literally meaning is prosperity of knowledge. After be novice Jnanashree Samanera more affectionate to Religious studies than academic studies and raised his religious knowledge much more. He stays at Mirzapore Shantidham Vihar as an Abbot and started by pure Theravada monk novice life and practicing and preaching applied Buddhism.He admitted to Mirzapore High School from native school and passed Martculation from here.

In 1949 AD. Jnanashree Samanera attained  to Higher Ordination (Bhikkhu) at Historical place Rajanagar Shakyamuni Vihara Pashan Sima and started with Monastic Bhikkhu life preceptorship of  upasangharaj Gunalangkar Mahathera.His Sima achariya was 6th Sangharaja Rev. Dharmananda Mahathera and Instructor was Rajguru Dharmaratna Mahathera.On this auspicious ceremony monk also attended named Rev.Achariya Jnanishwara Mahathera ,Vinayachariya Rev.Banghshadwip Mahathera,Vidarshanachariya Rev.Vishuddhananda Mahathera, Rev.Dharmananda Mahathera(Rangunia),Rev.Anandamitra Mah athera and Rev.Prajnananda Mahathera.

Path to Dhamma Propagation

Ven Jnanashree stays Binajuri Sashan Vihar to Jobra Sugota Vihar since admitted as Shramanera.After attained higher ordination Ven. Jnanashree Bhikkhu stays in Mirzapore Shantidham Vihar from 1949 to 1954 and developed the temple as unheard of success with is great organizational talent.He also first launched  fist feed collection system as a formula of organizational development.    

 In 1955 he appeared to Raozan Bimalananda Vihar with new hope and awakening and began to accomplish his mission as Chief Lord Abbot from Mirzapore Shantidham Vihar. Here he developed many constructional and socio-religious traditions with his great energy and talent. He founded here Buddha dharma preaching group called “Jataka Parishad” and so many religious activities. He resided here till last of 1957 AD.

At  Chittagong Hill Tracts

In  1958 AD. Ven. Jnanashree appeared to Mubachari village of Rangamati Hill Tracts as an Abbot of Mahalchari Goutamashram Vihara invited by Mr.Puranjai Mahajan and Mr.Bindukumar Khisha. There he played significant role for the propagations of Buddha’s teaching to promote the morality of mankind. He established here Dharmodaya Pali toll. In 1960 AD. He came to Boalkhali of Khagrachari Hill Tracts. He established here Parbatta Chattal Bouddha Anathalai(Orphanage) and Pali toll. To convey the message of Buddha he walked miles after mile try to motivate the Hill Buddhist Peoples to send their Children to school and religious institution or seek their cooperation for changing their life style. As a result he created very important disciples for Indigenous Buddhist Society like as Venerable Bimala Tissha Mahathera, Venerable Prajnananda Mathathera, Venerable Shraddhalangkar Mahathera and so many disciples. Later Ven. Jnanashree founded Moanoghar Orphanage with his three disciples (Bimal,Prajnananda & Shraddhalangkar) in Rangamati Hill Tracts. His other disciple Ven. Bimala tissa Mahathera founded Bodhichariya Orphanage in Kolkata, India.

Again in Plain Land:

In 1974 AD he back to return plain land Buddhist society from Chittagong Hill Tracts and adorn to position of Chief Abbot of Kadalpur Sudharmananda Vihar of Raozan ,Chittagong. In the same time he was nominated as General Secretary of Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahamandal. In 1977 he founded Mahamandal Dhrmiya Shiksha Parishad(Morning Religious Education Committee). In 1980 he founded Buddhist dormitory and research centre at Jobra of Hathazari, Chittagong. In 1983 he established Kadalpur Bhikkhu training centre and orphanage with cordial assistance with Ven. Prajnabangsha Mahathera and Ven. H. Sugatapriya Bhikkhu.

In 1995 he was nominated as Chief Abbot of World Peace Pagoda and Gunalangkar Buddhist Hostel at Jobra,Hathazari,Chittagong.

In 1997 he returned to West Binajuri Shmashan Vihar as life Chief Abbot of Raozan, Chittagong. He stays here till 2002 AD.He established here Binajuri Dhammakathik Orphanage,Binajuri High School,Gyanashree International Meditation Centre and reconstructed old temple.

At  Chittagong Buddhist Monastery: In 2003 AD. He appeared at Chittagong Buddhist Monastery as Chief Abbot invited by Bangladesh Bouddha Samiti  and still continues to residing here. Here his most remarkable contribution is every evening one hour Meditation to pious devotees. He also founded here Bhikkhu Training Centre  in 2004 AD. He has many contribution to this Buddhist temples development and Bouddha Samiti. As result Bangladesh Bouddha Samiti organizing his 93th Birthday at 17th  and 18th November 2017 AD on Buddhist Temple premises.

Founded Buddha Shasan Kalyan Trust (Buddha Regime Welfare Trust):

 In 2014 Ven.Jnanashree  founded Buddha Shasan Kalyan Trust with his whole reverence collection of life. Every year the trust authority provides scholarship towards poor student of the marginal family. The Trust authority also administrates all the institutes which is founded by Ven. Jnanashree . Buddha Shasan Kalyan Trust is Ven. Jnanashree’s dream foundation ever and exemplary model of Bangladesh Buddhism.

Foreign Tour of Ven. Jnanashree and obtains Award Honor:

He  visited many foreign countries to preach Buddha Dharma and receive award with great honor.Visited foreign country is India, Thailand, Japan and Srilangka. He has meet with several Buddhist monastic celebrities, writers, reformers, leaders, vipassana teachers and exchange to the opinion and views regarding religious culture activities with them during the visiting period.  

In 20th September 1981 he was awarded honored title of Shasana Shovana Jnanavanok by Phra Dhammadhiraj Mahamuni,abbot of Wat Paknam ,bachisaran,Bangkok,Thailand.

In 2001 Ven. Jnanashree honored the titled with Vinayachariya by Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha(The Supreme Sangha Council of Bangladesh)

In 2004 Ven. Jnanashree Crowned the titled of Upasangharaj(The Deputy Supreme Patriarch of Sangha) by Bangladesh Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha(The Supreme Sangha Council of Bangladesh)

On 2nd March 2007 Ven. Jnanashree honored the title with Mahasaddhammajyotikadhwaja by Govt. of the Union of Myanmar.

On 18th May 2007 Ven. Jnanashree honored the Degree with Honorary Doctorate Degree (Ph.D.) in Buddhism by Mahachulalongkornrajavidyala University Council, Bangkok, Thailand.

On 23rd February 2008 Ven. Jnanashree honored with the award Vishuddhananda Gold Award by Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha at Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery, Dhaka.

In 2012 Ven. Jnanashree honored the titled with Dhammavandagarika by Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha(The Supreme Sangha Council of Bangladesh)

In 2014 Ven. Jnanashree honored with Prestigious Award by The World Fellowship of Buddhist- Youth (WFBY) for his outstanding contribution to propagate the sublime message of Buddha in home and abroad for the benefits of human kind.

In 2016 Ven. Jnanashree honored with Saramedha-Punnachar Memorial Gold Award by Bangladesh Buddhist Association at Chittagong Buddhist Monastery.

In 2020 Ven. Jnanashree Crowned the titled of H.H.The 13th Sangharaja (Supreme Patriarch of Sangha) by Bangladesh Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha(The Supreme Sangha Council of Bangladesh)

In February 2022  Ven. Jnanashree Awarded Countries 2nd Highest Honor The Ekushey Padak’2022 by The People Republic of Bangladesh Government.

Research and Writing of Dhamma Books :

Ven Jnanashree has written and published so many dharma books for propagation the sublime message of Buddha. So in 1975 AD he established jointly with H.H. 8th Sangharaja Ven. Shilangkar Mahathera the Tripitak Prachar Board (Tipitaka Publishing Board). The following Dharma Books are published several editions due to tremendous demand of the young leaders from Tripitak Prachar Board written by him is—1.Bouddha Niti-Manjuri(1965),

2.Jatakabali (story of bodhisattva).

3.Bouddha niti-mala (Buddhist Livelihood)

 4.Bishakha by Ven. Shilalangkar Mahathera (1964),

5.Jibaka by Ven. Shilalangkar Mahathera(1965),

6.Ananda by Ven.Shilalangkar Mahathera(1966).

List of Founded Organization and Associates with:

Most Ven. Jnanashree Mahathera was associated with various socio religious and organizations which were founded by him by his great noble initiative. Would like to mention the name of the some organization which was founded by him is below…

1.Kadalpur Pyari Mohan Sumantissa Buddhist Orphanage

2.Kadalpur Bhikkhu Training Centre and Vihar Complex

3.Karnaphuli Nalanda Jnanashree Shishu Sadan.

4.Jobra Gunalangkar Buddhist Orphanage

5.Binajuri Dharmakathik Buddhist Orphanage .

6.Moanoghar Buddhist Orphanage.

7.West Binajuri High School.

8.Mahamandal Dharmiya Shiksha Parishad.

9.Guimara Dewan para Dr.Jnanashree Bouddha Vihar and Orphanage.

10.Guimara Dewanpara Dr. Jnanashree Primary School.

11.Uchai Surjapur Dr. Jnanashree Bouddha Vihar,Joypurhat.

12. Uchai Jnanashree A.H. High School.

13.Nurpur Jnanashree Bouddha Vihar,Joypurhat.

14. Barkandri Dr. Jnanashree Bouddha Vihar,

15.West Binajuri Dr. Jnanashree Vipassana Meditation Centre and Old Shelter home.

16.Bangladesh Buddha Shasan Kalyan Trust.

List of Disciples:

He has many disciples; some of most seniors are namely

01.Ven. Priyadarshi Mahathera –Vill:Kadalpur

02.Ven. Bimal Tissha Mahathera ,Vill- Mainee

03.Ven. Prajnananda Mahathera,Vill- Mainee,Dighinala

04.Ven. Shraddhalankar Mahathera,Vill-Katarang chara,

05.Ven. Arjyashree Mahathera,Vill-Mirzapore

06.Ven.Jinananda Mahathera,Vill-Kadalpur

07.Ven.Bodhipal Mahathera,Vill-Boradam,Mainee

08.Ven.Dharmajyoti Mahathera,Vill-Boalkhali

09.Ven.Jinapal Bhikkhu,Boalkhali

10.Ven.Kirtishree Bhikkhu,Boalkhali

11.Ven.Priyatissha Bhikkhu,Boalkhali

12.Ven.Sadhanamitra Bhikkhu,Boalkhali

13.Ven.Bodhipal Mahathera,Modunakhil

14.Ven.Purnajyoti Mahathera,Vill-Rangunia

15.Ven.Shasanananda Mahathera,Vill-Binajuri

16.Ven.Dr.Ratanashree Mahathera,Vill-Binajuri

17.Ven.Devamitra Mahathera,Vill-Laksham

18.Ven.Dhiranananda Mahathera,Vill-Kotherpar

19.Ven.Dr.Sharanapal Mahathera,Vill-Pomra

20.Ven.Arjapal Mahathera-Binajuri

………………………………………………………………………

References:

Biography of H.H. Ven. Tejabanta (Bangachandra) Mahathero by Professor Arthodorshi Barua, Chittagong College. Magazine “Sangharaj”, pp. 15-22.

Biography of H.H. Ven. Dharmasen Mahathera by Dr. Sumanpriya Bhikkhu. 15 Nov. 2021.

Biography of H.H. Ven. Nagasen Mahathera by Professor Arthodorshi Barua, Chittagong College.

Biography of H.H. Ven. Shasansree Mahathera by Professor Arthodorshi Barua, Chittagong College. Shasansree Smarak,

Biography of His Holiness Sangharaja in Bangladesh by Ven. Rupananda Bhikkhu, Suchia Sukhananda Bihar, Chandanaish. 10 January 2022.

Ek Surjer Anek Alo by  Reporter Mr. Joysen Barua, 28 Feb. 2016.

Hironmoy Dharmasen by Mr. Prof.Avijit Barua Manu, Bhikkhu Dharmeswar, Dr. Sanghapriya Thero, Prof. Shimul Barua, Prof. Dilip Barua. (HH Ven Dharmasen Mahasthabir Diamond Jubilee Celebration Committee) 5 February 2010.

Name: Mr. Rashadhar Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Dharmasen Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Mahiraj Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Surabala Devi Barua.

Date of Birth: Sunday 17 June 1928, Period of Supreme Patriarch: 2004 – 2020 years.

Village: Unaipura, Upazila: Patiya, District: Chittagong (Presently Chattogram), Bangladesh.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Rashadhar Barua has completed his primary education but most of time he was sick in early childhood. Having fully recuperated from his illness, Surabala Devi held her promise and requested that her son Rashadhar become a Buddhist monk under his most respected Ven. Gyaniswer Mahathero at Unainpura Lankaram Buddhist Monastery. At the age 14, on the day of Asalha Full Moon Day he becomes novice in 1942. His Pali name was Sri Dharmasen Sraman.

On the occasion of annual National Ceremony “Robe Offering Ceremony (Kathina Cibar Dana) Sri Dharmasen Sraman received higher ordination under the preceptor Most Ven. Gyaniswer Mahathero at Unainpura Purnachar Ordination Hall (holy Sima hall) in 1947. Then his monkhood pali name Ven. Dharmasen Bhikkhu. He diligently studied Buddhist teachings (Tipitaka), Pali scriptural language and monastic discipline (Vinaya Pitaka). His preceptor Most Ven. Gyaniswer Mahathero was a prolific Buddhist scholar, as well as a dependent meditation practitioner (Vipassana). His monumental compilation Pali Prabesh (Entrances to study Pali Language) is a prominent textbook at Dhaka University, Chittagong University of Bangladesh and Kolkata University of India.

Ven Dharmasen Bhikkhu’s Dhamma talk instilled a sense of harmony for the villagers of Unainpura and larger Bangladeshi society. He contributed numerous books and articles in Bengali language. He has many valuable publications (Buddhist literature) are namely Triratna Vandana (1962), Vinaya Sangraha (1978), Bodho Dharmo Sikkha (1981) and Tri Mahajibon (1990). Ven Dharmasen Bhikkhu firmly established guidelines under his spiritual leadership and codes of conduct which created a sense of unity for the monastic Sangha. For the propagation of the virtuous dharma in Bangladesh, he fostered relationships with prominent based Buddhist organizations: Bangladesh Sangharaja Bhikkhu Mahasabha (The Supreme Sangha Council of Bangladeh) and Sangharaja Purnachar Bhikkhu Sangsad (The Sangha Council of Sangharaja Punachar).

He has many disciples some of them namely

Ven. Somananda Mahathero, Sumangal Bihar, Karal.

Ven. Bodhimitra Mahathero, Unainpura Lankaram,

Ven, Sharanasen Mahathero, Tekota Saddharma Bikash Bihar,

Ven. Priyabangsha Thero, Srilanka.

Ven. Joysen Thero, Deyang Pahar Shakyamoni Bihar.

Receive Award: His Holiness Dr. Dharmasen Mahathero was awared from home and abroad. Bangladesh Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha (Supreme Sangha council) appointed him as 12^th Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh (Sangharaja) on 29 January 2004 by the General Meeting at East Joara Central Sraddhananda Buddhist Monastery, Chandanaish. The highest religious leader of the Buddhist in Bangladesh was conferred with series of citation and awards that include a warm welcome extended by the then Honorable President of India in 2004, the title “Shaddharma Bisharad” by Indian Government in 2004. Myanmar Government offered “Aggamahashaddharmajyotikaddhaja” in 2004. Govornment of Srilanka offered “Tripitaka Shahitya Chakraborty” in 2004. “World Role Model” from Thailand in 2004. ‘Atisa Dipankara Srijnana and Vishudhananda Gold Medal” in Bangladesh in 2005. The 5^th World Supreme Buddhist Conference offered “Supreme Buddhist Leader” from Japan in 2008. Honorary Doctorate Degree “Doctor of Humanity” from convocation of Vietnam Buddhist University on 22 July 2009 and 2^nd Honorary Doctorate Degree from Prominent Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU) on 24 May 2010. Gold medal “Sarmedha Gunalongkar” by Bangladesh Bouddha Samiti in 2015.

Visited Countries: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Dharmasen Mahathero has visited many countries namely India, Myanmar, Thailand, Sirlanka, Vietnam, Cambodia, Japan etc. 

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Dharmasen Mahathero passed away on 20 March 2020 at Royal Hospital in Chittagong, Bangladesh. Time around 12.58 am (Bangladesh Local Time).

Name: Mr. Manmohan Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Shasansree Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Keshab Chandra Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Basini Bala Barua.

Date of Birth: 23^rd November 1921, 15 Agrahayon, Time: 8.00 PM.

Period of Supreme Patriarch: 2002 – 2003 years.

Village: Mijiritala Kaharghona, Upazila: Banskhali, District: Chittagong.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Manmohan Barua was a meritorious student. He was a nephew of His Holiness 7^th Sangharaja Most Ven. Abhayatissa Mahathero, when he passed class 3 Most Ven. Abhayatissa Mahathero bring him to Satbaria Shanti Bihar and admitted to Satbaria Model School in class 4. Later he became novice and then monkhood life (Upasampada) under the preceptor of Most. Ven. Abhayatiss Mahathero, his Pali name was Ven. Shasansree Bhikkhu.

He established a Pali educational institution “Jnanasen Palitole” and a holy “Sima Hall” (a holy place where become Buddhist monk) at East Ratna in Ukhia Upazila, Cox’s Bazar. During liberation war in Bangladesh (1971) with Pakistan he saved a lot of righteous general people. He was able to speak English, Hindi, Urdu etc.

He was lived more than 14 years in Ramu, Ukhia, and Hill Tracks (Chittagong), more than 20 years in Chandanaish – Patiya Upazila, nearly 30 years in Anowara and Banskhali. He was appointed Vice President of Anowara Saptagram Smiti Samiti in 1964 and later appointed as a President. He established a women association “Rudura Boudho Mohila Samiti. He was a founder Secretary General of “HH Abhayatissa Seba Samiti” in 1968, later his appointed as a President. He was published a valuable Book “Kosal Rajar Shola Sopno”. During undivided Bengali his article, poem, and travel story was published in famous daily newspaper namely Jugantor, Ananda Bazar, Matrivumi etc. He has many disciples some of them namely

Ven. Tilokananda Mahathero, Banskhali,

Ven. Dharmananda Mahathero, Charbaroma,

Ven. Dayananda Mahathero, Moheshkhali,

Ven. P Lokananda Mahathero, Bathua etc.

Receive Award: Bangladesh Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha Sangha council appointed him for the post of President in 1993, also Sangha Council appointed his as a Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh (Sangharaja) on 9 January 2003 by the General Meeting at Baroigaon Kanak Chaityo Bihar in Kumilla Upazila.   

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Shasansree Mahathero passed away on 12 May 2003 at Chandanaish Kendrio Sraddhananda Bihar.

Name: Mr. Dbarika Mohan Singh, Pali Name: Ven. Jyotipal Mahathero.

Father’s Name: Mr. Chandramuni Singh, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Droupadi Bala Singh.

Date of Birth: 5 January 1914, Period of Supreme Patriarch: 2001 – 2002 years.

Village: Baraigano, Upazila: Laksam, District: Comilla.

Education and Monastic Life:

He completed his primary education and become novice when he was 18 years old in 1932, he got Pali name Sri Jyotipal Samanero. His preceptor name is Most Ven. Gunalongkar Mahathero. He studied in Raozan High School (1933), Mahamuni Pahartholi Pali Tole (Pali Institution) and then moved to Kolkata in India purpose of higher study.  He has met to the Most Ven. Bangsadbipa Mahathera who was a principal of the Nalanda Bidyavabon. He successfuly completed his study and got degree (Upadhi), he achieved first place in Abhidhamma study program, and also he got Gold medals prize from Nalanda University. Then the Sraman Jyotipal returned to home land and received higher ordination on 18^th July, 1938. His preceptor was deputy supreme patriarch Most Ven Gunalongkar Mahathero. He learnt many languages like as English, Hindi, Sanskrit, Burmese, Silone’s, Singholi etc.

Receive Award: He has achieved “Asia Buddhist Peace” gold medal award from Mongolia in 1978. He worked for Bangladesh Liberation War, during Bangladesh liberation war (1971) he has maintained a good relationship with diplomatic for the Bangladesh. Bangladesh Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha selected him as a Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh in 2001. He achieved Ekushey Padak (posthumous) 2010 and Independence Award “Swadhinata Padak” (posthumous) 2011. Ekhushey Padak is the second highest civilian award in Bangladesh and Independence award is the highest state award given by the Government of Bangladesh.

Publications: He has published a lot of valuable religious books namely 1. Karmotatto (1955), 2. Bouddha Dharmio Shikkha (1962), 3. Puggal Pnnati (1963), 4. Malaysia Vromon Kahini (1968), 5. Bangladesher Mukti Sangram (1976), 6. Bodhicharjabotar (1977), 7. Sadhonar Antoray (1978), 8. Soumyo Samyoi Santir Karon (1998), 9. Projnyabhumir Nirdesh (1981), 10. Varote Bouddho Dharmer Uttan Paton (1992), 11. Uposangharaj Gunalokar Mahasthobir (1985), 12. Charjapod (1991), 13. Buddher Jibon o Bani (1992), 14. Rabindro Sahitye Boudho Sanskriti (1996), 15. Vokti Shotokom (1999) etc.

He has visited many countries namely India, Nepal, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong kong, China, Japan, Mongolia, Russia, America, Korea, Srilanka, Myanmar, United State of America (1999) etc.

He has many monk deciples namely Ven. Dr. Buddhadatta Mahathero, Ven. Bajirayan Mahathero, Ven. Dharmadipti Mahathero (India), Ven. Dr. Sanghapriya Mahathero, Ven. Shilavadra Mahathero, Ven. Binoypal Mahathero, Ven. Projnyasree Mahathero, Ven. Bodhipal Thero, Ven Premananda Thero, Ven Prajnyapal Thero, Ven Projnyajyoti Thero, Ven Kosholayon Thero (Burma), Ven Sadhonapriya Thero, Ven. Sugatopriya Thero and so on.

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Jyotipal Mahathero passed away on 12 April 2002 at Mumbai J.J. Hospital.

Name: Mr. Manmohan Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Nagasen Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Krisnodhan Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Mahamaya Barua.

Date of Birth: 09 Ashbin 1908, Period of Supreme Patriarch: Posthumous.         

Village: Shilkhup, Upazila: Banskhali, District: Chittagong.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Manmohan Barua has successfully completed the primary education. During 7/8 years old he became novice under the guidance of His Holiness 7^th Sangharaja Most Ven. Abhayatissa Mahathero and changed his name Sri Nagasen Sraman (Pali Name). He learnt monastic education (Pali) for the few years then got higher ordination under the guidance of Most Ven. Prajnyalonkar Mahathero, and Most Ven. Abhayatissa Mahathero (preceptor) in 1928 at Satbaria Santi Bihar Ordination Hall (holy Sima hall). He got monkhood name Ven. Nagasen Bhikkhu. He appointed as a lord abbot at East Joara Sontosh  Bihar, his whole life lived in this Joara Santosh Bihar (temple). He traveled to Myanmar purpose of join 6^th Buddhist Council Conference in 1954. His golden Jubilee (54 years) was celebrated at Joara Santosh Bihar in 1982. In this auspicious occasion, His Holiness Most Ven. Shilalonkar Mahathero (8^th Sangharaja), Most Ven. Dharmadhar Mahathero (Indian Sangharaja), Most Ven. Anandamitro Mahathero (Akhil Varotio Sangharaja in India), Most Ven. Jyotipal Mahathero, Mr. Karnel Ali Ahammad Bir Bikrom (State Minister for Youth), and so many dignitaries, prominent monks, and Scholars, reporters, Dhamma devotees were present. His first disciple was prominent Buddhist monk Most Ven. Jinaratna Mahathero, abbot at Fathenagor South Suniti Bihar, Chandanaish.

Receive Award: He achieved honor “Saddharma Visaradha” (1956) and Indian Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha offered him award “Dharmachajo” (1976), “Ganadevata” award from Thailand (1982). He has appointed as a Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh (Sangharaj) in 1989, meeting place at Dhemsha Sakyamuni Bihar, Satkania.

[Here note that, may arise a question why Selected 9^th Supreme Patriarch when still alive 8^th Supreme Patriarch? Because unfortunately during 1989 monk community has divided into two groups, number (1) North monk community and another one (2) South monk community. South monk community selected 9^th Sangharaja to HH. Ven. Nagasen Mahathero but North monk community didn’t accept him. Later both groups has made commitment for the better future, they agreed when 8^th Sangharaja will be pass away then they will accept him, if he (HH. Ven. Nagasen Mahathero) will pass away before 8^th Sangharaja then must be certifying as a Posthumous 9^th Sangharaja. Unfortunately he passed away before 8^th Sangharaja.  In the North monk community group leader as a president Most Ven. Ajitananda Mahathero, Secretary General Most Ven. Prajnabangsha Mahathero. In the South monk community group leader was president Most Dr. Ven. Jinabodhi Mahathero, Secretary General Most Ven. Prof. S. Gyanapriya Mahathero.]

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Nagasen Mahathero passed away on 28 September 1992, at around 2.20 pm (local time). Then formed a National Funeral Celebration Committee. His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Nagasen Mahathero’s dad body preserved in the holy sense. The National Funeral Celebration Committee has successfully organized National Funeral Ceremony on 8^th January 1993, 24 Poush 1399 Bangla at Joara Santosh Bihar.    

Name: Mr. Sahadev Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Shilalongkar Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Joydhan Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Shyamabati Barua.

Date of Birth: Friday 21 June 1900. Period of Supreme Patriarch: 1975 – 2000 years.   

Village: Nanupur, Upazila: Fatikchari, District: Chittagong, Bangladesh.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Sahadev Barua successfully passed the primary education then admitted to the J.M.Sen High school at Chittagong City. He went to Burma and became novice under the guidance of Most Ven. U Sumangal Mahathero. Then he received higher ordination (Upasampada) under the preceptor Most Ven. U Tejaram Mahathero at Akiab Banasram Buddhist Temple, later he moved to International Dhammaduta Buddhist Monastery in Yangon. His Pali name was Ven. Shilalongkar Bhikkhu. Few years later he moved to Srilanka purpose of higher education with his friends Ven. Dharmatilak Bhikkhu and Ven. Jyotipal Bhikkhu in 1923. In Srilanka, he and his some friends total 12 monks received 2^nd Holy Kammavacha under the guidence of Most Ven Upasen Mahathera at “Panadure Saddhamoday Pariben”. Ven. Shilalongkar Bhikkhu lived Srilanka nearly 5 years and learnt Dhamma and Vinaya and visited many holy places there then returned to Bangladesh at village Nanupur in 1927. Later he lived at Nanupur, Anandadham Bihar, Boidyapada Shakyomuni Bihar, Mirjapur Shantidham Bihar. He has published many valuable publications namely Rahul Charito (1937), Ajatashatru (1932), Buddhajuger Bouddho Nari (1933), Parajika (1937), Bimanbatthu (1938), Dhammapada Attakatha (1943), Jibak (1933), Bouddho Niti Manjuri (1965), Ananda (1967), Jatakabaly (1968), Bishaka (1971) etc.

He participated on 5^th Asia Buddhist Peace Summit, organized by Mongolia and Soviet Union, also visited Japan in 1981 purpose of Ven. Nichiren 700^th Birthday Celebration. His diamond jubilee celebration organized at Mirjapur Shantidham Bihar in 1981.

Receive Award: Bangladesh Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha appointed him as a Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh (Sangharaj) by the General Meeting on 26^th February 1975 at Satbaria Shanti Bihar.  Bangladesh Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha offered him award “Shahityoratno” in 1966. Prajnyalok – Jinabangsha Kallyan Trust association offered him gold medal award “Prajnyalok – Jinabangsha” in 1996. “Aggamahasaddhammajyotikadhbaja” offered by Myanmar Government in 1999.

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Shilalonkgar Mahathero passed away on 23^rd March 2000. Cremation ceremony was held on 18-19 January 2001 at Mirjapur Shantidham Buddhit Monastery.

Name: Mr. Ram Chandra Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Abhayatissa Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Nabin Chandra Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Fuleswari Barua.

Date of Birth: 7 Boishakh 1247,        Period of Supreme Patriarch: 1957 – 1975 years. Village: Kaharghona, Upazila: Banskhali, District: Chittagong.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Ram Chandra Barua passed the primary education successfully from Jaldi Sarkel School. When Mr. Ram Chandra Barua was 7 years old his father had died. Then he became novice at holy place Buddhagosai Temple in Thegorpuni under the guidence of Most Ven Boisnob Bhikkhu in 1889. His Pali name was Sri Abhayatissa Sraman. He learnt pali under the guidance of Ven Prajnyalonkar Mahathero at Satbaria Dewanjipara (1903) for few years then he moved to Myanmar with Sri Indrajyoti Sraman. They received higher ordination under the guidance of Most Ven. Kearu Cheyada in Myanmar. Their pali name was Ven. Abhayatissa Bhikkhu and Ven. Chandrajyoti Bhikkhu. After then they returned to home land and went to Unainpura under Patiya Upazila. They have recited 2^nd time holy Kammavacha under the guidance of Most Ven. Purnachar Chandra Mohan Mahathero. He lived in Banskhali 12 years (1905 to 1917) then moved to Satbaria Shanti Bihar as a lord abbot. He lived there whole life nearly 58 years.

Receive Award: Bangladeah Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha has appointed him as a Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh by the 11^th General meeting at Binajuri Shmasan Bihar on 18^th April 1957.

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Abhayatissa Mahathero passed away on Monday 1 July 1974, at 6.00 in the morning, 91 years old, and monastic life 71 years (Vassa).

6^th His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Dharmananda Mahathero

Name: Mr. Naba Chandra Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Dharmananda Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Gabindaram Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Malancha Rani Barua.

Date of Birth: 16 Boishakh, 1873. Period of Supreme Patriarch: 1942 – 1957 years. Village: Mirjapur, Upazila: Hathajari, District: Chittagong.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Gabindaram Barua successfully completed his primary education and became novice under the guidance of Most Ven. Sukhchan Mahathero. He went to His Holiness 2^nd Sangharaj Most Ven. Chandra Mohan Mahathero purpose of education, he learnt general and Pali language from him. He received higher ordination (Upasampada) under the preceptor Most Ven. Chandra Mohan Mahathero at Mahamuni Pahartholi “Holy Baddha Sima” in 1983. He practiced meditation under the guidance of Most Ven. Sumanatissa Mahathero (Pyarimathe) during living at Andharmani and Domkhali. He went to Burma purpose of study Abhidhamma, he learnt Abhidhamma (Patthana) and practiced meditation. Then he returned to homeland Mirjapur. He moved to Arakan for the deeply practice mediation. After then he returned to village Hasimpur.

Bangladesh Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahasabha appointed him as a Sangharaj (Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh). His one of the pioneer disciples Most Ven Dharmapriyo Mahathero has been appointed as a deputy supreme patriarch of Bangladesh who lives in Pahartholi Mahananda Sangharaj Buddhist Monastery. His Holiness Most Ven. Dharmananda Mahathero passed 15 year as a Supreme Patriarch.

 Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Dharmananda Mahathero passed away on 7^th March, in 1957at Binajuri Shasan Bihar.  

Name: Mr. Banga Chandra Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Tejabanto Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Refangshu Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Pratima Barua.

Year of Birth: 1865,       Period of Supreme Patriarch: 1936 – 1942 years.            

Village: Satbaria Beparipara, Upazila: Chandanaish, District: Chittagong.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Banga Chandra Barua was born on the day of the full moon day (Sraboni Purnima). In childhood, he lost his presents. He has passed primary education successfully at Satbaria Primary School. He became a novice under the guidance of Most Ven. Pahorchan Bhikkhu (Mathe). His relative Mr. Fulchadra Barua is bringing him to Arakan (Burma) purpose of education. When Sri Tejabanto Sraman turned 20 years old he became a monk (Higher ordination), then he got again pali name Ven. Tejabanto Bhikkhu in Burma. He returned to his homeland Satbaria Beparipara in 1890. He was appointed as a Sangharaj (Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh) in 1936.

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Tejabanto Mahathero passed away on the day of the Full moon (Falguni Purnima) 3^rd March 1942, 19^th Falgun, Tuesday.

Name: Mr. Aungri Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Barojnyan Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Nanua Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Shisu Kumary Barua (Sukumary).

Date of Birth: 15 Magh 1865, Period of Supreme Patriarch: 1927 – 1936 years. Village: Gahira, Upazila: Raozan, District: Chittagong.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Aungri Barua as usual passed the primary education and became novice under the guidance of Most Ven. Ram Moni Mahathero at Gahira. He received higher ordination, his pali name was Ven. Barojnyan Mahathero (Upasampada) in 1887. He lived 1^st rain retreat (Vassa) at Abdullapur Buddhist Monastery, suddenly his preceptor Most Ven. Ram Moni Mahathero passd away, he moved to Gahira Buddhist Monastery. Then he passed his whole life in the village Gahira. For the propagation Buddhism he established a monk association name “Sangharaj Bhikkhu Mahamondal”, also created a fund for that association. He sent some student monk to get higher study in Burma and Srilanka by the patronize that association fund namely Ven. Dharmadhar Mahathero (Indian 1^st Sangharaj), Deputy Sangharaj Ven. Gunalonkar Mahathero, Ven. Dhirananda Mahathero, Ven. Sumanachara Mahathero and so on. He appointed as a Sangharaj in 1927 (Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh). He had appointed as a supreme patriarch for 9 years, also he achieved award “Shandhbaja”.

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Barojnyan Mahathero passed away at 8.00 in the evening, on 7 Chaitro, 1936.

Name: Mr. Lal Mohan Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Jnyanlongkar Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Krishno Chandra Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Jibon Bala Barua.

Date of Birth: 13 Chaitro, 1838 Bangla.  Period of Supreme Patriarch: 1908 – 1927 years.                         

Village: Mahamuni Pahartholi, Upazila: Raozan, District: Chittagong.

Education and Monastic Life:

Mr. Lal Mohan Barua finished his primary education, when he was 10 years old became novice under the guidance of Most Ven. Chan Mahathero, (Raoli purohit). He learnt Pali and Burmese languages too. The King Manraja Bahadur appointed him as a “Rajguru” when he became monk (higher ordination) at Manikchadi Upazila. Ven. Jnanlongkar lived at Chandramuni Sebayet Temple long time then moved to Mahananda Sangharaj Bihar. He has established an association purpose of spread education name “Sangha Sammiloni” in 1871.  He appointed as a Sangharaj in 1907 (Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh). He had appointed as a supreme patriarch for 17 years (1910 to 1927). He has many disciples one of them prominent Ven. Dharmatilok (Nishichandro) Mahathero, who is a lord abbot of Shantidham Buddhist Monastery in Raozan.

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Jnyanlonkar Mahathero passed away on Sunday 22 Jyestho 1927, at 7.20 in the morning, 89 years old.

Name: Mr. Chandra Mohan Barua, Pali Name: Ven. Chandra Mohan Mahathero

Father’s Name: Mr. Madhuram Barua, Mother’s Name: Mrs. Kanchan Prova Barua.

Date of Birth: 5 Ashard 1837,  Period of Supreme Patriarch: 1877 – 1907 years. Village: Unainpura, Upazila: Patiya, District: Chittagong.

Education and Monastic Life:

He passed successfully primary and monastic education (learnt dhamma and Vinay). He became a novice when he was 16 years old on the day of Magha Puja Day (Full Moon Day) one of the holy places at Thegorpuni Budagosai Chetiya (Pagoda). He received higher ordination at 17 years old, in 1851. Then he traveled to Kolkata in India and met to the scholar Mr. Pal, he was expert in many languages like English, Pali, Hindi also nearly 13 languages. He learnt Pali from Mr. Pal long time, and then returned to home. He got serious diseases, his father suggested becoming layman. So, he became layman but didn’t get married. After then he traveled to Kolkata and Burma. By the patronage of King Mindonmin he received Higher Ordination once again with his friends, in that auspicious occasion nearly 76 Mahathero’s were attended, it was held in1861. The King Mindonmin offered Honorary Degree to the Monk. Most Ven. Chandro Mohan received “Purnachar Dharmadhari” from King Mindonmin. Then Ven. Chandra Mohan and his 6 friends went to the Srilanka for the propagation Buddhism, they established Ramaya Nikaya in Srilanka. During live in Srilanka he learnt Pali and Srilankan languege, he lives there 5 years then returned to Bangladesh in 1865. After returned Bangladesh he joined “Sangharaj Nikay”, which established in 1864 those who follow accurate Theravada Discipline (Dhamma and Vinay).

He traveled to Bodh Gaya in India, during stay there he discovered Bodh Gaya Main Temple in 1865. Ven Chandra Mohan returned to Bangladesh from Srilank in 1868. Ven. Jnanalongkar and he established 1^st Bhikkhu Sima (a holy place to become Buddhist monk, Ordination Hall) at Hanchargona in 1869.  He achieved a honorary “Rajguru” from Yangon in 1869. In his village Unainpura, he established a Buddha Foot Print Pagoda (1882) and he established a Pali School in 1906 in the village Pahartholi.

Passed Away: His Holiness Sangharaj Most Ven. Chandra Mohan Mahathero passed away on the day of Magha Puja (Full Moon Day, 22 Magh), 70 years old, in 1907.