Dhammananda
Bhikkhuni

Dhammananda Bhikkhuni, born Chatsumarn Kabilsingh on October 7, 1944, in Thailand, is a prominent Buddhist nun, scholar, and advocate for women's rights in Buddhism. Raised in a devout Buddhist family, Dhammananda developed a deep interest in Buddhist philosophy and spirituality from a young age. Despite facing societal barriers and cultural norms that restricted women from ordaining as bhikkhunis (fully ordained nuns) in Theravada Buddhism, Dhammananda pursued her calling and became ordained in the Mahayana tradition in Taiwan in 2003.

In 2001, Dhammananda founded the Songdhammakalyani Monastery in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, where she serves as the abbess. The monastery, which offers training and education for both male and female monastics, represents a significant milestone in the revival of the Theravada bhikkhuni lineage in Thailand. Dhammananda is a vocal advocate for gender equality within Buddhism and has dedicated her life to challenging patriarchal traditions and promoting the full ordination of women in the Theravada tradition. Through her teachings, writings, and advocacy work, Dhammananda continues to inspire countless individuals and communities to embrace the principles of equality, compassion, and social justice in Buddhist practice.