Ven. Narada Maha Thera Gunaseela Vihanage

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Ven. Narada Maha Thera was born as Sumanapala Perera in July 14, 1898, Kotahena, Sri Lanka.

Educated and was an outstanding student in a Christian missionary school. Studied in a Buddhist Sunday School at a very early age.

Ordained as a novice at 18 and was tutored by the famous Pelene Vajiranana Mahanayaka Thera. Studied languages and Abhidhamma. Received his higher ordination at age 20 and studied at the Ceylon University College. Received traditional monastic education as well as studies in philosophy, logic and ethics. Joined the Servants of the Buddha society, an active Buddhist missionary foundation, where he was inspired by their missionary commitments.

In 1929, he was selected to represent Sri Lanka for the opening of a new vihara in Benares, India, where he served as a translator, due to his excellent command of the English language, and there got his first taste of missionary work. Had since traveled widely, mostly in South East Asian countries. In 1956, he was in England for extensive missionary work. In his missionary work overseas he always ensured there was a nucleus of devout Buddhist to carry on the good work he initiated. He was the President of the London Buddhist Vihara Society.

He also helped to establish Chapter House (Sima) and Buddhist Societies in many countries. Amid these active missionary activities he undertook many literary works in both Singala and English, including translation works, and many of his text are classical reference for Buddhist studies as well as resources for Buddhist Sunday School including the famous Buddha and His Teachings.