He received his early education at Ananda College, Colombo, and went on to obtain a BA Special Degree in Sociology from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. He later completed his MA at the same university. Additionally, he was awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Writership and Communication with Merit. He earned his PhD in Sociology from Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in India.
In recognition of his literary talent, Prof. Abhayasundere received the State Literary Award in 2004 for his Travelogue “Baranas Nam Nuwara.” His contributions to Buddhist scholarship and cultural development were further acknowledged with the Shasana Sanathana Shathakaabhimana (ශාසන සනාතන ශතකාභිමාන) honorary award in 2019 for his service to the Buddha Sasana. He was also the recipient of the prestigious Bunka Award from Japan.
Professor Abhayasundere served in numerous national and institutional roles, reflecting his dedication to literature, culture, and religion. He was a member of the State Literary Panel, the former Chairman of the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress, and the Chairperson of the Arts Council at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Furthermore, he also served as the Chairman of the Arts Council of Sri Lanka. Currently he serves as a member of the Council of the Postgraduate Institute of Buddhist and Pali Studies at the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.
Prof. Abhayasundere’s legacy continues to inspire students, scholars, writers, and cultural practitioners across Sri Lanka.
