Dr A. T. Ariyaratne: A human being of iconic opulence
by Dr B. J. C. Perera
In the gigantic tapestry of humanity, there are those rare individuals who emerge as beacons of light, illuminating the path for others, with their wisdom, compassion, and altruism. Dr A. T. Ariyaratne, the esteemed Founder of the Sarvodaya Movement of Sri Lanka, was undeniably one such luminary; a man whose life was an extraordinary testament to the power of love, service, and spiritual awakening.
As we say goodbye to this great son of the soil, amidst the gentle whispers of intense sorrow and the resounding echoes of gratitude, we do honour the profound legacy of Dr Ariyaratne. He is a man like no other, whose very existence transcended the boundaries of time and space, leaving an indelible mark on the very fabric of reality. He was not just a mere person; he was a massive guiding force, and a source of inspiration for countless individuals across Sri Lanka and beyond. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy will continue to shine brightly, enlightening the track for generations to come.
To speak of Dr Ariyaratne is to delve into the depths of human potential, to explore the boundless possibilities that arise when one has to talk about one who dared to dream, to envision, and to act with unwavering faith and conviction. His journey, though rooted in the soil of Sri Lanka, traversed the realms of the human spirit, touching hearts and igniting souls, right across the globe.
Dr Ariyaratne was more than just the founder of the Sarvodaya Movement; he was the very essence of its heart and soul. With unwavering dedication and boundless compassion, he dedicated his life to serving others, tirelessly working towards the betterment of society. His vision of a peaceful and harmonious world, built on the principles of love, compassion, and generosity, resonated deeply with people from all walks of life. Through his actions and teachings, he touched the lives of millions, instilling hope, fostering unity, and empowering communities to create positive change.
What set Dr. Ariyaratne apart was not just his extraordinary accomplishments, but the profound kindness and humility with which he carried himself. Despite his immense influence and stature, he remained humble and approachable, treating everyone he met with respect and dignity. He had that rare ability to connect with people on a personal level, listening with empathy, offering words of wisdom, and of course, inspiring them to believe in themselves.
At the heart of Dr Ariyaratne’s remarkable odyssey on Planet Earth lay the Sarvodaya Movement, which showed up as a profound manifestation of his vision for a world where every individual, regardless of creed, caste, or colour, could awaken to their inherent spirituality as well as potential, and contribute to the collective embroidery of peace and harmony. With a steadfast commitment to the Gandhian principles of non-violence, self-reliance, and community empowerment, he pioneered a path of transformation that transcended the limitations of the material realm and embraced the infinite potential of the human soul. In the words of the poet Rumi, “The beauty you see in me is a reflection of you.” Dr Ariyaratne’s life was a testament to the inherent beauty and divinity that resides within each and every one of us; a reminder that we are not merely separate beings, but interconnected threads in the rich drapery of existence.
Yet for all that, Dr. Ariyaratne’s impact extended far beyond the mere establishment of an organization. It permeated the very essence of human consciousness, awakening hearts to the inherent interconnectedness of all beings and inspiring a profound shift in perspective: one rooted in love, compassion, and reverence for all life.
But perhaps, amidst the splendour of his accomplishments and the profundity of his teachings, it is Dr Ariyaratne’s heart as a human being, a vessel of boundless love and compassion, that truly set him apart from lesser mortals. In his presence, one could not help but feel the gentle embrace of universal love, the soothing balm of empathy, and the radiant glow of inner peace.
For Dr Ariyaratne was not merely a leader or a visionary; he was a friend, a mentor, and a beacon of hope for all who crossed his path. With humility as his armour and kindness as his weapon, he embarked on a sacred mission to uplift humanity, perhaps even one at a time, and in doing so, he touched the lives of countless souls, leaving behind a legacy of love and transformation that shall endure for eternity.
In the hallowed halls of history, Dr. Ariyaratne’s name shall forever be inscribed as a paragon of virtue, a beacon of hope, and a guiding light for generations to come. His teachings, imbued with profound wisdom and illuminated by the radiance of his spirit, shall continue to echo through the corridors of time, inspiring souls to awaken to their true potential and embark on the sacred journey of self-discovery and service.
As we bid farewell to this earthly form of Dr Ariyaratne, let us not mourn his passing, but celebrate the profound gift of his presence in our lives. Let us honour his memory by embodying the principles of love, compassion, and service that he so tirelessly espoused, and by carrying forward the flame of his spirit into the darkest corners of the world, illuminating the path for all who seek solace and guidance.
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, whom Dr. Ariyaratne greatly admired, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Dr Ariyaratne personified and exemplified this philosophy in everything he did, and his life stands as a testament to the power of compassion, empathy, and selflessness. Let us honour his memory by carrying forward his legacy, spreading love and kindness wherever we go, and working tirelessly towards the realization of his vision of a better world for all. Dr A. T. Ariyaratne may have left this world, but the dazzling light of his wonderful life will continue to shine brightly, guiding us towards a brighter future for generations to come.
