Born: 19 January 1909, Thailand
Died: 10 September 2000
Country most active: Thailand
Also known as: จันทร์ ขนนกยูง, chan khonnokyung, Khun Yay Achan Mahā-ratana Upasika Chandra Khonnokyoong (Khun Yay Achan)
Chandra Khonnokyoong, born in Nakhon Pathom province, Thailand, on 19 January 1909, was a prominent Thai Maechi (nun) and the founder of Wat Phra Dhammakaya. Despite her lack of formal education, Chandra gained renown as a revered meditation teacher, earning her the title Khun Yay Achan Mahā-ratana Upasika.
Chandra’s early life was marked by familial struggles, and an incident with her father led her to pursue reconciliation through meditation. In 1927, she discovered Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro in Thonburi, a meditation master capable of communicating with the afterlife. This encounter ignited her spiritual journey, and Chandra’s dedication to Dhammakaya meditation blossomed.
Life at Wat Paknam under Luang Pu Sodh’s guidance was transformative for Chandra, despite initial challenges due to her lack of formal education. Regarded for her meditation prowess and reputed abilities, she became a pivotal figure in Luang Pu Sodh’s lineage. Following his death in 1959, Chandra continued his teachings and transmitted the Dhammakaya tradition to a new generation.
The burgeoning number of students necessitated the establishment of Wat Phra Dhammakaya in 1970. Chandra played a crucial role in its foundation, overcoming financial constraints and emphasizing self-discipline. The temple, though facing initial difficulties, became the largest in Thailand in subsequent decades.
Chandra’s legacy endures through Wat Phra Dhammakaya’s growth and recognition. She remained active in the temple until her passing on 10 September 2000. Her funeral, attended by an unprecedented number of monks and dignitaries, reflected her exceptional influence. The temple, in homage to her, erected a monument and continues to commemorate her contributions, emphasizing her pivotal role in shaping Thailand’s spiritual landscape.