Ashin Nyanissara
Ashin Nyanissara (Dr. Bhaddanta Nyanissara) – Respected monk
Ashin Nyanissara, also known as Dr. Bhaddanta Nyanissara or Sitagu Sayadaw, is a prominent Burmese Buddhist monk, scholar, and humanitarian. Born on February 23, 1937, in Thegon Township, Bago Division, Myanmar, he is renowned for his extensive contributions to the promotion of Theravāda Buddhism and his significant humanitarian efforts both within Myanmar and internationally.
Early Life and Education
At the age of seven, Ashin Nyanissara entered monastic life and began his studies in Buddhist scriptures. He was formally ordained as a novice at fifteen and received higher ordination as a monk at twenty. He completed his primary, middle, and higher examinations in Pāli Buddhist scriptures between 1956 and 1958. He earned a master’s degree in Buddhist Doctrine from Khin-ma-gan Pali University in Mandalay and pursued further studies in English at Sangha University in Yangon to facilitate the propagation of Buddhism .
Sitagu Organization
Founding of Sitagu International Buddhist Academy
In 1994, Ashin Nyanissara established the Sitagu International Buddhist Academy in Sagaing, Myanmar. The academy offers diploma and degree programs in Buddhist studies and language studies, including English, Pāli, Sanskrit, and Hindi. It serves as a center for training monks and nuns and for promoting scholarly research in Buddhism .
Humanitarian and Social Contributions
Ashin Nyanissara is the founder of the Sitagu International Buddhist Missionary Association (SIBMA), established in 1980 to accelerate missionary and social works. Under his leadership, SIBMA has undertaken numerous projects, including:
Sitagu Mission
Sitagu Water Project in Sagaing Hills
Construction of Sitagu Hospitals across Myanmar
Establishment of Sitagu Buddhist Universities in Sagaing, Yangon, and Mandalay
Development of Sitagu Vipassana Academy in Sagaing
Construction of Sitagu Buddha Vihara, Dhamma Vihara, and Sangha Vihara both domestically and abroad .
These initiatives aim to provide education, healthcare, and spiritual guidance to underserved communities.
Interfaith Dialogue and International Engagement
Ashin Nyanissara has been an advocate for interfaith dialogue and has participated in various international forums to promote peace and understanding among different religious communities. He has served on the Board of World Religious Leaders for the Elijah Interfaith Institute and has been involved in discussions on religious tolerance and global harmony .
Recognition and Awards
In recognition of his contributions to Buddhism and society, Ashin Nyanissara has received several international awards. In 2023, he was honored with the International Award for Promotion of Buddhism by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), acknowledging his selfless service in promoting Buddhist teachings and fostering harmony between Myanmar and India .
Legacy
Ashin Nyanissara’s legacy is multifaceted, encompassing his scholarly achievements, humanitarian efforts, and contributions to interfaith dialogue. His work continues to inspire many, especially in the fields of Buddhist education and social welfare.
For more information, you can visit the official website of the Sitagu International Buddhist Academy: thesitagu.org.
