Jyotipal Mahathero


Jyotipal Mahathero was a Bangladeshi Buddhist monk. He was the 10th religious guru of Buddhists in Bangladesh.

Early life

Mahathero was born on 5 January 1914 in Kemtali, Laksam Upazila, Comilla District. His father's name was Chandramoni Singh and his mother's name was Draupadi Bala Singh.

Career

Mahathero was initiated into Shramanya Dharma in 1933 at the age of 15. He became a monk in 1937. He acquired proficient knowledge of Pali language, literature, etc. at Pahartali Mahamuni Pali College, Calcutta and Nalanda Vidya Bhavana. He was proficient in Bengali, Hindi, Pali, English and Sanskrit languages.
Mahathero is the founder of many charitable organizations, such as Boys 'High School in 1991, Chittagong University Peace Pagoda in 1982, Girls' High School, Orphanage, etc.
Mahathero was granted the title of World Citizen by the United Nations in 1995. He received the title of Epitome Master from Nalanda Vidya Bhavana. He was the 'Sangharaja', the highest religious guru of Bangladeshi Buddhists. He is the 10th religious guru of Buddhists in Bangladesh. He was awarded the title of 'Aggamhadharmjoti Kadhwaj' by the Government of Myanmar. His temple is named after him 'Sangharaj Jyoti: Pal Mahath's Buddhist Mahavihara Complex.

Death and legacy

Mahathero died on April 12, 2002 at the age of 92. He was buried with full state honors for his contribution to the Bangladesh Liberation war. He received the Ekushey Padak in 2010 and the Independence Day Award in 2011.