Bhavana Society • Centennial Celebrations
Celebrating a Century of Life, Teaching & Compassion
Honoring the life and legacy of Most Venerable Henepola Gunaratana Mahāthera — “Bante G” — as we journey toward his 100th birthday.
December 7, 2027
BHANTE G'S 100TH BIRTHDAY
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1927–2027 • A rare milestone
A century of wisdom. A legacy for generations.
On December 7, 2027, Bante G will reach the remarkable milestone of 100 years of age. His centenary is an opportunity to honor not simply his longevity, but a lifetime devoted to sharing the Buddha’s teachings and cultivating mindfulness, compassion, inner peace and understanding throughout the world.
This will be more than a birthday celebration. The Centennial is envisioned as a year-long program celebrating his life, teachings, service and enduring legacy—while preserving a century of wisdom for generations to come.
A year of observance and service
Centennial Program & Initiatives
Under the guidance of Venerable Dr. Saddhajeewa, Acting Abbot, planning is underway for a series of programs leading to the Centennial main event in the Washington, D.C. area. Select a card for additional information.
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April 2027 • Details being confirmed
Centennial Service & Wellness Initiative
Blood Donation • Mindfulness, Health & Longevity
The Centennial year opens with an act of generosity through a community blood donation drive, together with a wellness outreach initiative exploring mindfulness, healthy aging and resilience.
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May 2027 • Date TBC
Centennial Vesak Program
Celebrating the Buddha’s Message
A special Vesak observance marking the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and passing, with dana, community gathering and reflections on Bhante G’s life and teaching.
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Initiative being explored
UN Day of Vesak 2027 Initiative
An International Centennial Aspiration
The Bhavana Society is exploring an initiative concerning Bante G’s possible participation in a United Nations Day of Vesak commemoration in New York.
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Program in development
Youth with Bante G
Passing Wisdom to the Next Generation
A youth-centered program exploring mindfulness, compassion, ethical living, resilience and the application of Buddhist teachings in everyday life.
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September 18–19, 2027 • Program in development
Centennial Summit
Wisdom in Dialogue • Mindfulness in Modern Life
A major Centennial gathering bringing together monastics, teachers, practitioners and the public, paired with a special Centennial-year observance of generosity and gratitude.
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Details coming soon
Overnight Pirith & Centennial Katina Ceremony
Blessings • Gratitude • Generosity • Community
A traditional overnight chanting observance dedicated to blessings, gratitude, peace and well-being during Bante G’s Centennial year.
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December 2027 • Registration details to come
100th Birthday Celebration
The Centennial Main Event — Washington, D.C. Area
The culmination of the year-long program: a gathering honoring a century of life devoted to the Dhamma and service to humanity.
Life • Teaching • Community
A Living Legacy
Preserving a century of wisdom
Beyond 2027
The Centennial is also an opportunity to preserve Bante G’s story, teachings, photographs, writings, recordings and historical materials. This work complements the Bante G Heritage Center and the Bhavana Society’s broader mission to make his remarkable legacy available to future generations.
Preserving a century of wisdom
Latest Centennial Updates
This section is designed to be updated throughout the planning period, so visitors can return for confirmed dates, speakers, registration, volunteer opportunities, photographs and announcements.
UN Day of Vesak and CNN Health outreach are being explored. Participation has not yet been confirmed.
Advance registration for the main Centennial gathering will open after venue and program details are confirmed.