1925 Portrait of Sri Lankas Buddhist Revival Leader

A. Hewarritaina Dharmapala was a prominent figure in Sri Lankan history, known for his role in the Buddhist revival movement in the early 20th century. This photograph, taken on December 29, 1925, captures Dharmapala, whose advocacy for Buddhism and national identity played a vital part in re-establishing the religion in Sri Lanka during British colonial rule. His efforts helped revive interest in Buddhist texts and heritage, making him a significant cultural leader.

The image comes from the Bain News Service, a well-known source of news photography during the early 1900s. Dharmapalas work laid the groundwork for future movements aimed at promoting Buddhism and social equity in Sri Lanka. By documenting him in this way, the photograph not only highlights a key figure in Sri Lankan history but also serves as a reminder of the broader struggles for cultural identity during a time of significant change.