Ven. Udugalmote Siriwimala Thera MA, Pandith
The chief incumbent of Sri Poorwarama Maha Viharaya, Horana
Former Deputy Dean of Kudauduwa Nalanda University
We have known Mr Dharmasiri De Silva who is the Chairman of HODES Group of Companies for a long time. He was born and lived in this area. He inherited a small portion of wealth from his parents. However, he was not content with what he inherited. He strove to develop his company finally bringing it to an international level. Today HODES Group of Companies is a leading organization in Sri Lanka. The company has been able to bring in a large amount of foreign exchange to the country. In addition, as the Chairman of HODES Group of Companies, Dharmasiri has trained his work force to handle any job to the perfection. His management skills are home-grown not based on theories.
He has provided direct and indirect employment to a large number of people who have the right qualifications and dedication to work. He conducts his business in a righteous manner leaving no room for complaints from his employees. By the way, he has also improved himself spiritually relying mostly on Buddhist principles and concepts. While earning his wealth honestly he lavishly apportions a part of it to the welfare of the people living in indigent circumstances. The way he handles everything is commendable.
He has spent millions of rupees to put up dharmashalas (preaching halls), dagabas, temples, Buddha statues, dwellings for Bhikkhus and walls around Bodhi trees at temples in many places in the country. All those services have been extended for the welfare of the Buddha Sasana and its millions of followers. He also had close associations with Bhikkhus and respected their advice at all times. Unlike other businessmen, he listens to advice and then work accordingly without fail. By doing so, he sets an example to others who try to run their businesses at a profit.
I think that Mr Dharmasiri De Silva had led a life of Bodhisathva in his long Sansaric journey. In addition, he has published a large number of books on Buddhism. Through his books he has made it possible for others to learn Buddhism easily and lead a righteous life. With all his heavy responsibilities as a leading businessman he finds time to participate in Dhamma discussions. He enjoys performing as a competent speaker at Dhamma discussions. While leading a righteous life he sets an example to his family members, employees and others who wish to succeed in life according to Buddhist principles.
We know that he takes part in Poya Day Dhamma discussions. Sri Poorvarama Maha Viharaya in Horana was his first temple to extend his services. He has already spent millions of rupees to develop the temple. For instance, he put up a Wahalkada (main entrance) and the Buddha statue in front of Sri Poorvarama Maha Viharaya. He also built a fullyequipped library at the temple. He has done yeoman service as the lay adviser in the Dayaka Sabha. We wish him success in his business ventures and may all his wishes come true with the blessings of the Triple Gems! In addition, we wish him long life and good health to perform similar activities in the future.
