International Buddhist Foundation

(An Association under Swiss Law)

Special Announcement

In memory of our esteemed Spiritual Director Most Venerable Dr. Walpola Kalyanatissa Maha Thero

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our Spiritual Director Most Venerable Dr. Walpola Kalyanatissa Maha Thero, on the 12th of July 2024.

Most Venerable Maha Thero made his very first contribution to the IBF in 1991, by conducting the very first meditation program of the IBF. Later in 2000, he led the IBF Katina ceremony and subsequently accepted the invitation to be a resident monk at the Geneva Buddhist Vihara. This marked the beginning of a longstanding devoted association culminating in becoming the Spiritual Director of the IBF. He was instrumental in providing both spiritual and institutional guidance for the betterment of the IBF, the resident monks and its lay members.

Late Venerable Thero regularly engaged himself in teaching the Dhamma to masses and individuals across Switzerland. He conducted retreats and was instrumental in establishing several Buddhist centres in Switzerland. Late Thero’s ability to grasp and the keenness to learn many different subjects and disciplines enabled him to engage in intellectual discussions with individuals as well as groups and teach them Dhamma while relating Dhamma to their backgrounds and professions.

Late Venerable Maha Thero lived his life based on the teachings of the Buddha and was frequently guiding the monks and lay members both by words of wisdom and by his life of compassion and simplicity. Late Thero’s guidance and wisdom have touched countless lives, and his absence will be deeply felt within our community.

During this time of grief, let us come together to honour his memory and support one another. May we all find relief in the Dhamma and the teachings that he so passionately shared with us.

May He Attain the Supreme Bliss of Nirvana!