We are very fortunate to have another well-respected meditation master in the Thai Forest Tradition come to visit us in Sydney. Luang Por Tong Daeng is well-known to our community of volunteers, especially those had helped since the beginning. Luang Por Tong Daeng presided over the receiving of the standing Big Buddha that is in the main hall in Bodhikusuma Centre and also led the Asalha Puja Ceremony in 2014 in Bodhisaddha (pictured above).

Luang Por Tong Daeng Varapañño was born in Sakon Nakhon Province in the Northeast of Thailand in August 1954. He ordained at the young age of 13 as a novice with Luang Por Wan Uttamo. Some time later, he trained in the monastery of Luang Por Waen, Wat Doi Mae Pang.

After his full ordination as a bhikkhu at the age of 21. Luang Por Thong Daeng went for “Tudong” (walking in forest tradition) for 4 years, walking from North East Thailand to South East Thailand. He then stayed with Luang Por Plien for 8 years in Wat Aranyavivek.

Currently, Luang Por Tong Daeng is the abbot of Wat Phra Jiao Dton Luang near Chiang Mai.

Luang Por will be accompanied by Ajahn Moshe, who will be translating for Luang Por into English.