A.T. Ariyaratne, an esteemed social worker often hailed as the “Gandhi of Sri Lanka,” has passed away at the age of 93.
In 1958, Dr. A.T. Ariyaratne served as a teacher at Nalanda College in Colombo, concurrently holding the position of Vice President of the Nalanda College Social Services Association.
The Sarvodaya movement, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles, took root during a charitable camp in Katholowa village of the Kurunegala district in 1960. A. T. Ariyaratne, along with forty students from Nalanda College, engaged in various social services during this event, leading to the formal establishment of Sarvodaya.
Sarvodaya’s overarching goal was to foster a just, sustainable, and compassionate social system, catering to the fundamental human needs of the community through individual and collective enlightenment.
The passing of A.T. Ariyaratne leaves behind a legacy of profound impact and service to the nation.
