“The loss of Soma Thera is a loss to Buddhists worldwide” says President

[December 19, 2003 - 7.30 GMT] 

“ Ven. Soma Thera boldly and forthrightly presented the Buddhist view in building public opinion on national and religious issues. A distinct feature of a democratic polity is the selection of a correct path among diverse opinions. In that respect Ven. Soma Thera’s contribution is immense,” said President Kumaratunga on the sudden demise of the Chief Incumbent of Victoria Viharaya Australia, Ven. Gangoldavila Soma Thera.

“He is one of the great monks who appear rarely in the history of a nation. He was an erudite Buddhist scholar who could deliver very gifted sermons,” said the President in her message.

One of Sri Lanka’s best known, most outspoken and controversial Prelate’s sudden demise, occurred in St. Petersburg Russia last Friday, December 12, after undergoing two emergency operations following a heart attack.

The Thera was in Russia on an invitation by the Russian government to receive an honorary doctorate. He was 54 at the time of his demise.

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Last Updated Date: December 19, 2003  -7.30 GMT.