“Yo bhikkhave maṁ upaṭṭhaheyya, so gilānaṁ upaṭṭhaheyya” - “O Bhikkhus, one who serves the sick, serves me.”
These profound words of our Supreme Teacher, the Gautama Buddha, resonate deeply in the hearts of true Buddhists. They emphasize that to serve the ill is to serve the Buddha himself. Inspired by this timeless teaching, the Buddhist Society of Ananda College, Colombo took yet another step forward on the noble path of selfless service through the Ananda Apeksha 2025 initiative.
Held at the Apeksha Cancer Hospital in Maharagama, this heartfelt project was conducted with the primary aim of offering compassion, support, and material assistance to our fellow citizens bravely battling cancer.
Unity in Purpose – A Whole School Movement
What made this year’s project truly exceptional was the unprecedented unity shown by Ananda students from Grade 1 to Grade 13, who came together with unwavering commitment. Whether through donating a single king coconut or simply by spreading the message, each Anandian contributed wholeheartedly. Over 5,000 king coconuts were collected — a symbol not just of generosity, but of solidarity and collective goodwill.
This powerful wave of compassion was a clear reflection of Ananda College’s culture of empathy, service, and leadership.
Guidance, Dedication, and Leadership
This meritorious endeavor would not have been possible without the spiritual guidance of Most Venerable Onalgama Upali Nayaka Thero and the blessings of the respected Maha Sangha residing at Ananda College. Their continuous encouragement to engage in acts of merit has inspired generations of Anadians to uphold Buddhist values in action.
We also extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. D. M. L. P. Lal Dissanayake, our beloved Principal, whose fatherly guidance and relentless dedication ensured that this project was executed flawlessly. His visionary leadership continues to be a beacon of strength for all.
To the members of the Ananda College Buddhist Society, who invested their time, energy, and hearts into organizing this effort with remarkable precision and devotion — your selfless service is both commendable and inspiring.
A Moment of Reflection
To all who read this and feel a spark of compassion — may you be inspired to take similar steps in your own lives. To all who contributed, may the merit you have earned bring blessings to you and your families.
Let the light of this great act of generosity continue to shine, not just in 2025, but for generations to come.
May you all find refuge in the compassionate embrace of Ananda Matha.
May your hearts be full.
May your spirits rise in kindness.
