U Silananda (1927 -2005)

by Hla Min

Updated : June 2025

Highlights

First Rector, International Theravada Buddhist Missionary University
Trailblazer for the Buddhist monks doing Dhamma Duta missions in the USA and beyond. See the book by Nyaung Kan Aye Sayadaw.
Ovada Sayadaw and Spirtual Advisor of Monasteries (Dhammanada Vihara, TMC, Abayarama, Mahasi) & Meditation Centers (DMC).
Lexicographer, Tipitaka Pali-Myanmar Dictionary
Author — Books (in Burmese & English)

Courses — Fundamentals of Buddhism, Abhidhamma (in Burmese & English), Consecration of Sima, Dhamma Topics & Discussions

Passed away on August 13, 2005. I was Emcee of the Memorial Service. I accompanied Saya U Myat Htoo (TBSA) and carried the Box of Sayadaw’s ashes to be scattered near the Golden Gate Bridge.
I was Contributing Editor of the book “Paying Homage to Sayadaw U Silandabhivamsa”.

Sarah Marks transcribed Sayadaw’s talks on Abdhidhamma. It was published in three volumes.

A Thai devotee published “Paritta Pali and Protective Verses” as a birthday present for Sayadaw.

Sayadaw’s first book “Taya Oo” was reprinted for Sayadaw’s 75th Birthday. It also had Sayadaw’s Biography.

Sayadaw (Rector, ITBMU and Chief Resident Monk, Dhammananda Vihara, Half Moon Bay, California) passed away on August 13, 2005.
I had the honor to serve as Master of Ceremonies at the Services.
50+ Theravada monks from Burma, USA, and UK paid respect to Sayadaw.
U Nandamalabhivamsa (then Pro-Rector, Academic, IMBTU) and Dr. Myint Kyi (then Pro-Rector, Admin, IMBTU) attended the ceremonies as Representatives of IMBTU.
Devotees mourned that “The sun that rose in the East has set in the West”
Sayadaw was cremated.
I had the honor to carry the box containing Sayadaw’s ashes to be scattered from a yacht into the waters near Golden Gate Bridge.
Saya U Myat Htoo (C68, President of TBSA) led the procession.
Sayadaw’s last journey is recorded as a 2-set DVD.

I served as a Contributing Editor and the Committee member for compiling and publishing the book “Paying Homage to Sayadaw U Silananda”.

In August, 2015, the saydaws and devotees of Dhammananda Vihara to celebratethe 10th Anniversary of Sayadaw’s demise. See photos