Dr. A.T. Ariyaratne
(Ahangamage Tudor Ariyaratne)
(1931-)

Sri Lankan Social Reformer & Spiritual Leader
1969 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership
1996 Gandhi Peace Prize

birthdate: November 5
birthplace:
Galle, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka)

QUOTES

"When we try to bring about change in our societies, we are treated first with indifference, then with ridicule, then with abuse and then with oppression. And finally the greatest challenge is thrown at us. We are treated with respect. This is the most dangerous stage." (after Gandhi)

...Several million Sarvodaya adherents in Sri Lanka have proved that they can transcend racial, religious, linguistic and ethnic barriers to accept a common state of ideals, principles, and constructive programs to build a new society as collectively envisioned by them.

"We who have been born Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, Muslim, or any other faith can be very confortable in each others temple's, mosques, and churches, praying or meditating together to create a spiritual mass of consciousness which can overcome our greed, hatred, and illusions."

"The spiritual foundation of the SSM, its closeness to the day-to-day life of the people, its highly decntralized and village-based nature, its non-partisanship in party political struggles and its active involvement in bringing relief and rehabilitation to victims of natural or man-made calamities: these are some of the other factors that have contributed to its survivial and progress."

 

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