Sentinel Digital Desk
In Robin Sharma's book The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, a fictional lawyer renounces wealth for spirituality. In real life, Ven Ajahn Siripanyo, the son of Malaysian billionaire Ananda Krishnan, chose a similar path, leaving behind a fortune worth over $5 billion to become a Buddhist monk.
Ajahn Siripanyo is the only son of Ananda Krishnan, Malaysia’s third richest man. His empire spans telecom, media, real estate, and more. His mother, Momwajarongse Suprinda Chakraban, is a descendant of the Thai royal family, giving him noble lineage.
At 18, Ajahn Siripanyo visited Thailand to connect with his mother's family. He temporarily ordained at a Buddhist retreat, but the experience sparked a lifelong spiritual journey. He has now been a forest monk for over 20 years.
Despite grooming him to inherit his business empire, Ananda Krishnan respected his son’s decision. A devout Buddhist himself, Krishnan is known for his philanthropic efforts, further aligning with his son's spiritual path.
Ajahn Siripanyo grew up in London, completed his studies in the UK, and speaks at least eight languages. His global upbringing and openness to diverse cultures influenced his embrace of Buddhist teachings.
Now an abbot at Dtao Dum Monastery near the Thailand-Myanmar border, Ajahn Siripanyo lives a life of simplicity and spirituality, embodying the teachings of detachment and inner peace.