Born into the warmth of a humble farming family in the tranquil village of Analaitivu, SriLanka, our father’s early years were shaped by the simplicity of rural life and the enduring values of hard work and perseverance. From the verdant fields of his youth, he nurtured a fervent ambition to rise above the limitations of poverty and carve a path toward a brighter future for himself and his loved ones.
Guided by an unyielding spirit and fueled by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, our father embarked on a journey of self-discovery and academic pursuit that would lead him to the esteemed halls of the University of Peradeniya. Here, amidst the bustling corridors of higher learning, he cultivated his intellect and fortified his resolve, laying the groundwork for a future defined by service and compassion.
In the mid-1980s, he made the difficult decision to immigrate to Canada—a decision fraught with challenges and uncertainties. Undeterred, he embraced the opportunity with characteristic resilience, taking on challenging roles as a security guard, petrol station attendant, and dishwasher to support his family and lay the foundation for a better future.
Despite the demands of multiple jobs, he prioritized our education, ensuring that all five of us earned undergraduate degrees from reputable Canadian universities, with three of us becoming engineers.
Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of immigrant life, our father’s unwavering faith and commitment to spirituality remained a guiding light—a source of strength and solace in times of uncertainty and upheaval. He dedicated most of his life in Canada to the building of the Canada Sri Ayyappan Hindu Temple in Toronto—a testament to his deep-rooted devotion and unwavering commitment to preserving cultural heritage and fostering spiritual growth.
Today, this temple stands as one of the largest in North America, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the community.
For over 20 years, he has served as the Guruswamy (Guru/Guide of Spiritual Followers of the Hindu Temple of Ayyappan), offering spiritual guidance and advice to the 100,000+ strong Sri Lankan devotees in Toronto. In recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the community, the Government of Canada awarded him the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Pin last year—a fitting tribute to a lifetime dedicated to service and upliftment.
Join us as we celebrate the extraordinary life of our beloved father—a journey of hope, resilience, and service that continues to inspire and uplift us all.
Welcome to a celebration of love, legacy, and the enduring spirit of a man whose unwavering dedication to making the world a better place will forever echo in the hearts of those he touches.