Vaidehi Bhargava
Ven Ajahn Siripanyo, the son of Malaysian billionaire Ananda Krishnan, embodies a rare story of renunciation and spiritual dedication. Born and raised in London, Siripanyo was exposed to privilege and a multicultural environment from an early age. His mother, Momwajarongse Suprinda Chakraban, is a descendant of the Thai royal family, further enriching his heritage. Fluent in eight languages, he had a cosmopolitan upbringing and was groomed for success in his father’s multibillion-dollar business empire spanning telecommunications, media, oil, and real estate.
At the age of 18, Siripanyo visited Thailand to explore his maternal roots and underwent a temporary monastic retreat. What started as a short-term spiritual experience turned into a lifelong commitment. Over the last two decades, he has lived as a forest monk, adhering to a minimalist and meditative lifestyle. Today, he serves as the abbot of the Dtao Dum Monastery, situated near the Thailand-Myanmar border. His days revolve around simplicity, alms-seeking, and Buddhist teachings.
His father, Ananda Krishnan, despite preparing his son for a corporate role, respected his decision to pursue monkhood, supported by his own devout Buddhist beliefs. Interestingly, Siripanyo maintains occasional contact with his family, sometimes traveling in luxury to meet his father or attending retreats on properties acquired by his family for his comfort. These instances highlight the balance between his monastic detachment and familial bonds.
Siripanyo’s journey is not only about leaving behind a $5 billion inheritance but also about embodying spiritual fulfillment. His unique background—blending immense wealth, royal lineage, and a deep commitment to Buddhism—makes his life a compelling narrative of detachment, cross-cultural identity, and the pursuit of inner peace.