The Chief Prelate of the Asgiri Chapter of the Shyamopali Maha Nikaya, Most Venerable Warakagoda Gnanarathana Thero, reportedly collapsed in the bathroom of his temple and remained in a fainting condition for four hours without receiving any assistance.
The incident is said to have occurred last week. The Mahanayake Thero, who had fainted and was lying in the bathroom for four hours, was later admitted to a leading private hospital in Kandy on the same day.
Sources from the Asgiri Temple confirm that the Thero is currently receiving medical treatment at the hospital. This unfortunate and alarming incident has raised serious concerns, especially considering the presence of numerous monks, a special VIP security unit, and health services within the temple premises.
The Most Venerable Mahanayake Thero is regarded as a revered symbol of the Buddhist community. He is the tenth prelate of the Urulawatta Sangha lineage of the Asgiri Chapter. Heads of state and foreign dignitaries often consider it a great honor to visit him and receive his blessings. His consent and approval are also essential in decisions related to the Sacred Tooth Relic, symbolizing the spiritual leadership that has been preserved through generations.
Despite having a dedicated VIP security detail, lay staff, a personal doctor, and a special health unit funded by public resources the Thero remained unattended for hours. This has led to growing criticism and concern among the monks of the Asgiri Maha Vihara, according to temple sources.
