It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Professor Mahinda Palihawadana, Emeritus Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, who departed peacefully on the morning of June 8, 2025.
He was the devoted husband of the late Kusuma Palihawadana and the beloved father of Privamvada, Ravi, the late Nirmala, and Ruchira.
Professor Palihawadana was not only a revered academic but also a deeply reflective and compassionate human being. Over the course of his career, he left an indelible mark on the field of religious studies and South Asian classical languages. His tenure at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, where he later served as Emeritus Professor of Sanskrit, was marked by decades of inspirational teaching, quiet scholarly excellence, and unshakable integrity.
A former visiting scholar at the Center for the Study of World Religions at Harvard University, he carried his intellectual humility and curiosity across continents. His groundbreaking study The Indra Cult of the Rigveda offered a bold reinterpretation of ancient Vedic texts, while his co-translation of the Dhammapada and its commentary—published by Oxford University Press—remains a vital contribution to Buddhist literature in the English-speaking world.
He translated several books of J. Krishnamurti into Sinhalese and vigorously promoted the vegetarian way of life by travelling extensively to give public talks and publishing many thought provoking pamphlets on the subject. He was conferred a D.Litt (Honoris Causa) by the Sabaragamuwa University for his contribution to developing English Language Studies at Affiliated University Colleges.
Those who knew him—whether as a teacher, colleague, or friend—remember him not only for his profound intellect, but also for his gentle presence, principled character, and deep respect for all forms of life.
In accordance with his final wishes, last rites were conducted within 24 hours in a private family ceremony.
May this noble and humble scholar attain the Supreme Bliss of Nibbāna.