Jagath Sumathipala

Sumathi Holdings Supports the 71st National Snooker Championship 2025

admin — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 21:26:53 +0000

The 71st National Snooker Championship 2025, played for the prestigious U. W. Sumathipala Memorial Trophy, was successfully held on 19th October 2025 under the guidance of the Billiards & Snooker Association of Sri Lanka.

Mr. Jagath Sumathipala, Chairman of Sumathi Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, graced the event as Chief Guest, joined by Mr. Chadu Sumathipala (Executive Director) and Mr. Chathula Sumathipala (Director – Business Strategies & Development). Their presence reaffirmed the Group’s longstanding commitment to promoting national sports and empowering youth.

The tournament showcased exceptional snooker talent, with athletes competing at the highest level for a trophy that honours the legacy of the late Mr. U. W. Sumathipala, a pioneer who advanced cue sports in Sri Lanka.

In his address, the Chairman emphasized the importance of supporting sporting pathways that inspire discipline, ambition, and national pride. He reaffirmed Sumathi Holdings’ dedication to uplifting Sri Lankan sports and creating opportunities for young athletes.

Bauddhaloka Foundation Hosts Bauddhaloka Literary Festival 2025 Award Ceremony Under the Patronage of Mr. Jagath Sumathipala

Maduka Krunarathne — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 08:23:32 +0000

The Bauddhaloka Foundation marked a significant cultural milestone on Tuesday, 21st October 2025, by hosting the Bauddhaloka Literary Festival 2025 Award Ceremony at the Lotus Hall of the BMICH. Held under the distinguished patronage of Mr. Jagath Sumathipala, Chairman of the Bauddhaloka Foundation, the event celebrated and evaluated Buddhist literary works produced between 2020 and 2024.

This year’s ceremony embraced the theme “The Buddhist Archaeological Heritage of the Northern Province,” reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to preserving and promoting Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist literary and archaeological heritage.

The event was graced by the presence of several eminent Buddhist leaders whose contributions continue to strengthen the nation’s spiritual and cultural landscape, including:

Venerable Dr. Niyangoda Dharmakeerthi Sri Sangarakkitha Vijithasiri Thero, Anunayaka- Malwatta Chapter
Ven. Wedaruwe Upali Thero, Anunayaka – Asgiri Chapter
Ven. Prof. Pallekande Ratanasara Anunayake Thero
Ven. Waleboda Gunasiri Anunayaka Thero

Their presence underscored the importance of honoring scholarly excellence and safeguarding Buddhist knowledge for future generations.
Several distinguished state leaders also attended, adding national prominence to the ceremony. Among them were H.E. Maithripala Sirisena, Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, Hon. Gamagedara Disanayake, and Mr. R.M. Gamini Senarathna. Their participation highlighted the collective commitment to recognizing valuable contributions in the field of Buddhist literature.
Addressing the audience, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala emphasized the significance of revitalizing Buddhist studies, protecting archaeological heritage, and supporting researchers who document and preserve Sri Lanka’s spiritual legacy. He reaffirmed the Foundation’s dedication to fostering scholarly growth, cultural understanding, and national pride.
The Bauddhaloka Literary Festival 2025 Award Ceremony stands as a meaningful tribute to the authors, researchers, and custodians of Buddhist knowledge whose work enriches the nation’s literary and cultural identity.

Sri Lanka Strengthens Global Buddhist Representation at the 75th WFB Conference

admin — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 21:16:54 +0000

The World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB), one of the most influential global organisations dedicated to the advancement of Buddhist philosophy, celebrated its 75^th Anniversary recently at Vajiravudh College in Bangkok, bringing together delegates from more than 170 regional centres worldwide. As part of the anniversary programme, the WFB also held its 31^st General Conference, along with the 22^nd General Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhist Youth (WFBY) and the 13^th Council Meeting of the World Buddhist University (WBU) highlighting Buddhist fellowship, youth engagement, and academic collaboration.

Founded in 1950 by the renowned Pali scholar Prof. G. P. Malalasekera, the WFB brought together 129 delegates from 27 countries, uniting laity and sangha from nearly all Buddhist traditions for the first time in history. The conference aims to strengthen and share the Buddha’s teachings while fostering unity among Buddhists, and to continue social, cultural, educational, and humanitarian initiatives in collaboration with organisations working toward these shared goals. This year’s gathering focused on deepening dialogue across Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions, and on addressing key contemporary issues including environmental stewardship, sustainable development in line with the UN SDGs, and youth engagement. Accompanied by a distinguished delegation of Sri Lankan members, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala, the Vice President of WFB represented Sri Lanka at the Conference, continuing the nation’s longstanding leadership in international Buddhist affairs.

Speaking on his participation at this year’s event, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala noted, “It is an honour to represent Sri Lanka at the 75^th Anniversary of the World Fellowship of Buddhists. As a nation with deep-rooted Buddhist traditions and the birthplace of this very organisation, we carry forward a responsibility to uphold the values of peace, compassion, and unity that the WFB stands for. This conference is not only a celebration of the past 75 years but a renewed call to safeguard the Dhamma for future generations.”

A respected philanthropist and former President of the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala has led national initiatives in education, healthcare, cultural preservation, and social welfare. As the Founder Chairman of the Bauddhaloka Foundation, he continues to invest in heritage conservation, education, and community upliftment, further strengthening his lifelong commitment to Buddhist service. His contributions to Buddhist affairs have earned international recognition, including the First World Buddhist Outstanding Leader Award in 2014, and he has remained an active participant in WFB forums over the years.

Through the active involvement of leaders such as Mr. Jagath Sumathipala, Sri Lanka remains firmly at the heart of global Buddhist discourse, strengthening international connections and ensuring that the cultural and spiritual heritage nurtured on the island continues to guide generations to come.

Milina Mathru Abinandhana: A Glowing Tribute to the Late Mrs. Milina Sumathipala

admin — Fri, 30 May 2025 06:50:31 +0000

The main hall of the BMICH was filled with reverence and emotion on May 28, 2025, as friends, family, and dignitaries gathered to mark the 90th remembrance of the late Mrs. Milina Sumathipala, the beloved mother of Mr. Jagath Sumathipala, Chairman of Sumathi Holdings. The commemorative event, titled “Milina Mathru Abinandhana,” was a heartfelt celebration of a remarkable woman whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

Image Caption

The event, held from 2.30 PM to 6.00 PM, drew a distinguished gathering, including veteran actors and actresses, Buddhist monks, authors, singers, film directors, businessmen, friends, and relatives. Each attendee came together not only to remember Mrs. Milina Sumathipala but also to honor her enduring contributions to Sri Lankan culture and society.

A key highlight of the afternoon was the launch of the book “Milina Novuu Milina,” penned by renowned author Dharmashri Thilakawardena. The book captures the untold stories and personal reflections of Mrs. Sumathipala’s life, painting a vivid picture of her values, sacrifices, and lasting impact.

In a deeply moving gesture, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala awarded Rs. 1 million each to two iconic figures in the Sri Lankan entertainment industry songstress Latha Walpola and actress Wasanthi Chathurani as a mark of appreciation for their immense contributions over the years. The audience responded with heartfelt applause, acknowledging the significance of preserving and celebrating the legacy of cultural pioneers.

The event was also enriched with live singing performances and traditional dance items, paying tribute to Mrs. Sumathipala’s passion for the arts. A special documentary film showcased her life journey, chronicling her path as a devoted mother, a guiding light within her community, and a patron of cultural values.

In a powerful demonstration of corporate and personal philanthropy, Sumathi Holdings donated Rs. 4 million to the Milina Sumathipala Foundation, a contribution collected from the employees’ one-day salary. Additionally, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala made a personal donation of Rs. 30 million to support the preservation of Buddhist historical sites, the Sinhala-Buddhist literary heritage, and the conservation of ancient Pus Kola Poth (manuscripts).

The “Milina Mathru Abinandhana” was not only a tribute but a living reminder of how one person’s life can touch so many others. Through music, literature, community, and generosity, the event embodied the values Mrs. Milina Sumathipala upheld throughout her life love, gratitude, service, and cultural pride.

Her memory lives on, not just through the heartfelt words and performances of the day, but also through the lasting initiatives now launched in her name, ensuring her legacy continues to uplift and inspire the nation for generations to come.

Mr. Jagath Sumathipala Powers Up a Greener Future with Launch of Sumathi Energy (Pvt) Ltd

admin — Thu, 29 May 2025 08:24:48 +0000

Image Caption

First, solve the problem. Then write the code.

Necessary, making this the first true generator on the Internet. It re are many variations of passages of Lo rem Ipsum available, but the majority have suffered alteration in some form, by injectedeed eedhumour, or randomised words which don’t look even slightly believable.

A programming language is for thinking about programs, not for expressing programs you’ve already thought of. It should be a pencil, not a pen.

There are many variations of passages of Lorem Ipsum available, but the majority have suffered alteration in some form, by injected humour, or randomised words which don’t look even slightly believable. If you are going to use a passage of Lorem Ipsum. You need to be sure there isn’t anything embarrassing hidden in the middle of text. All the Lorem Ipsum generators on the Internet tend toitrrepeat predefined chunks. Necessary, making this the first true generator on the Internet. It re are many variations of passages of Lorem Ipsum available, but the majority have suffered alteration in some form, by injectedeed eedhumour, or randomised words which don’t look even slightly believable.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Quis ipsum suspendisse ultrices gravida. Risus commodo .

Reviving a Legacy: Jagath Sumathipala’s Lifelong Commitment to Billiards in Sri Lanka

admin — Thu, 29 May 2025 08:24:34 +0000

Among the many roles he has embraced as a businessman, philanthropist, media pioneer, and cultural advocate Mr. Jagath Sumathipala’s dedication to sports, particularly billiards and snooker, remains one of his most impactful and often understated contributions to Sri Lanka.

His journey with cue sports began in the 1980s, during a time when billiards and snooker were considered niche sports, with limited access to international platforms. Determined to change that, Mr. Sumathipala took bold steps to bring global attention to Sri Lanka’s emerging talent and passion for the game.

A Historic Milestone: Hosting the 1988 Asian Snooker Championship

In 1988, under his leadership and personal involvement, Sri Lanka hosted the 5th Asian Snooker Championship a landmark event that brought some of Asia’s finest cueists to Colombo. This historic tournament placed Sri Lanka on the regional snooker map and inspired a new generation of players to pursue the sport professionally.

Support for National Icons: Championing Muhammad Lafir

Mr. Sumathipala was also one of the key supporters of Muhammad Lafir, Sri Lanka’s first world billiards champion. Recognizing Lafir’s talent and legacy, he sponsored international tours and events, giving Lafir the platform he deserved to showcase his skills and represent the nation proudly.

This personal and financial backing reflected not only Mr. Sumathipala’s love for the game but also his belief in empowering individuals who bring pride to the country.

Sustained Development of Cue Sports

Beyond individual contributions, Mr. Sumathipala has consistently advocated for the development of billiards and snooker at grassroots and professional levels. His efforts helped establish better training infrastructure, organized tournaments, and created awareness about the sport among youth.

His vision has always been clear: to elevate cue sports from a pastime to a respected discipline within Sri Lanka’s sporting ecosystem.

Sustained Development of Cue Sports

Today, many of Sri Lanka’s top cueists acknowledge the role Mr. Sumathipala has played in their journeys through infrastructure, exposure, and encouragement. His involvement with the sport spans over threedecades, and his influence continues to resonate in every cue strike played in local clubs and national competitions.

As Sri Lanka looks to the future of sports, Mr. Jagath Sumathipala’s legacy in billiards remains a shining example of how vision, leadership, and personal passion can transform entire sporting disciplines.