Bhikkhuni Ordination of Ven. Ariyavimalani from Ariya Vihara (29 June 2025)

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𝐁𝐡𝐢𝐤𝐤𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐢̄ 𝐎𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐕𝐞𝐧. 𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐲𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐢̄ 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐲𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚 | 29 June 2025

On 29 June 2025, a historic and spiritually uplifting event unfolded at the Dekanduwala Bhikkhuni Training Centre, Horana, Sri Lanka—the higher ordination (Upasampadā) of Ven. Ariyavimalanī Bhikkhunī. This significant step was the culmination of several dedicated years of Dhamma practice and monastic training under the Ariya Monastic and Laity Training Programme, reflecting profound commitment, spiritual maturity and unwavering discipline.

Beginning as an upāsikā, then embracing the homeless life as an anāgārikā, and progressing through two and a half years as a sāmaṇerī (novice nun), Ven. Ariyavimalanī trained with utmost devotion under Ven. Sumaṅgalā Therī, Abbess of Ariya Vihara. Her further training was guided by Ven. Saddhasumanā Mahātherī, one of the pioneers of modern bhikkhuni ordination since 1998; and Ven. Dhammashanthī Mahātherī, Abbess of Dekanduwala Bhikkhuni Centre, Sri Lanka. Her journey demonstrates the deep-rooted lineage of compassion, wisdom, and the empowering continuation of the Bhikkhunī Saṅgha.

The dual ordination, conducted with both bhikkhu and bhikkhunī Saṅghas, was a powerful reminder of the Saṅgha’s support for women’s full ordination. Ven. Ariyavimalanī was ordained alongside 13 other women from Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, India, and Canada—each now fully ordained bhikkhunīs walking the noble Eightfold Path.

This event was not only a personal spiritual achievement but also a communal triumph for Ariya Vihara, as Ven. Ariyavimalanī became its second bhikkhunī, realizing its founding vision of nurturing a living Bhikkhunī Saṅgha. We extend our deep appreciation to the upajjhāya, Ven. K. Wimalajothi Mahāthera, and the pavattinī, Ven. R. Saddhasumanā Mahātherī, and the kammavacāriya and kammavācarinī for conducting these dual ordination for the bhikkhunīs. We also honour the presence of Chief B. Sri Saranankara Nāyaka Mahāthera (Spiritual Patron of Ariya Vihara) and 10 other senior bhikkhus, along with 13 senior bhikkhunis, including Ven. Sumaṅgalā Therī (Abbess of Ariya Vihara), whose presence offered strong blessings and visible support.

Faithful lay supporters, particularly 19 devoted members from Ariya Vihara, joined in the rare meritorious celebration, offering Saṅghika Dāna and pirikara to nearly 90 monastics. Their collective faith, generosity, and shared joy marked a beautiful expression of communal spiritual growth.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this spiritual milestone possible, especially Ven. K. Wimalajothi Mahāthera (Founder of Dekanduwala Dhamma Training and Meditation Centre) , Ven. Chief B. Sri Saranankara Nāyaka Mahāthera (Chief Judiciary Monk of Malaysia), Ven. R. Saddhasumanā Mahātherī (Abbess of Tusitaramaya), Ven. Dharma Sumanapalī Mahātherī (Abbess of Sri Sucharitha Wardhanaramaya Madampe), Ven. M. Dhammashanthī Mahātherī (Abbess of Dekanduwala Bhikkhuni Centre), Ven. G. Medhā Therī (Vice Abbess of Daham Medhura), Ven. Sumaṅgalā Therī (Abbess of Ariya Vihara), Ariya Vihara Exco, Committee of Ariya Monastic and Laity Training Program and all participating esteemed members of the Saṅgha and the kind-hearted donors, sponsors and well wishers.

Ven. Ariyavimalani’s ordination is a radiant example of perseverance, reverence, and the fruit of right practice. Her journey inspires countless women in the Dhamma path—proving that through disciplined training, humility and deep faith, the doors to liberation remain open. May she and all newly ordained bhikkhunis walk with light, wisdom and peace in service of the Buddhasāsana.

Sādhu! Sādhu! Sādhu!