Venerable Phra Anil Sakya, PhD, also known by his royal ecclesiastical title Phra Brahmashakyavamshavisuddhi, is a distinguished Buddhist monk and scholar with deep connections to both Nepal and Thailand. Born into the Buddha’s Sakya clan in Nepal, he began his monastic life at the age of 14. In 1975, he came to Thailand to pursue his religious studies under His Royal Holiness Somdet Phra Nyanasamvara, the 19th Supreme Patriarch of Thailand. Since then, he has devoted his life to the Thai Sangha and to the advancement of Buddhist education.

He holds an MPhil from the University of Cambridge and a PhD in Social Anthropology from Brunel University London, having received a royal scholarship graciously granted by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand. His academic leadership includes serving as Vice-President of Mahamakut Buddhist University and Rector of the World Buddhist University. He has also been invited as a visiting professor at leading institutions such as Santa Clara University (USA) and the University of Oxford (UK).

Venerable Phra Anil has played an active role in both national and international arenas. He has advised Thai government leaders, engaged with business and civil society communities, and contributed to global dialogues at United Nations platforms. His work reflects a sustained commitment to applying Buddhist wisdom to contemporary global challenges.

He currently serves as the Assistant Abbot of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, one of Thailand’s most significant royal monasteries. He is also Advisor to the Regional Sangha Governor of Region 6–7 (Dhammayut Lineage) and serves as a member of the National Subcommittee on the Implementation of Religious Affairs of Thailand.

Renowned for his scholarship, leadership, and dedication to ethical governance and well-being, Venerable Phra Anil continues to inspire both academic communities and the wider public through his engagement in international forums, including the United Nations High-Level Meeting on “Happiness and Well-Being.”