The Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement of Sri Lanka: The Elephant Moves and We Begin to Understand the Whole

Abstract

In its 50 years of existence, the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement has been described as the largest nongovernmental organization (NGO) in Sri Lanka, with all the connotations such a label implies. It is also known, incompletely, as a Buddhist grassroots development program, a peace movement, a microfinance scheme, a social service and early childhood education network, and as a combination of bottom-up empowerment strategies serving poor people, youth, and rural communities. Although grounded in the beliefs and values of South Asian culture, the movement’s holistic approach has always transcended traditional methods and norms through a wide range of real-world and people-centered innovations. Over the past 50 years, Sarvodaya has engaged millions in the art and practice of sharing what they have, what they hope for, and what they can create by working together. The movement’s founder, Dr. A. T. Ariyaratne, has established himself as an inspiring and visionary leader whose transformational methods and models have been heralded by scholars, educators, practitioners, policy makers, and other leaders around the world. Seen conceptually through the lens of normative systems, resiliency and protective factors, asset-based community and individual development, interfaith spirituality, sustainable economics, and even general systems theory—and pragmatically through interventions in service learning, maternal and child health, addictions treatment, conflict prevention, human rights, and social justice—Sarvodaya’s ideas and influence have affected and inspired millions around the globe.