S.N. Goenka Learns Vipassana Meditation

“I remember [S.N. Goenka] as fair skinned. He was a young businessman who was very attractive. He would come to the house, and bring gifts, a tray of sweetmeats or that kind of thing, and was very pleasant. But I also remember my father saying to him, ‘We have so many different ways of meditation centers here, why don't you try one?’"

In a recent podcast episode, Sunda Khin offers a deeply personal and captivating narrative that weaves her family’s legacy into the fabric of Myanmar’s turbulent history.

As the daughter of U Chan Htoon, the first Chief Justice of Myanmar’s Supreme Court, Sunda grew up at the epicenter of the country’s political elite. She shares vivid memories of mingling with figures like Aung San, Daw Khin Kyi, and Ne Win, providing an insider’s perspective on the pivotal events that shaped Myanmar’s post-independence trajectory. Sunda recounts her father’s monumental role in drafting Myanmar’s first constitution and navigating international crises, including efforts to address the Buddhist discrimination in South Vietnam. Through her stories, she grants listeners a rare window into the inner workings of Burmese leadership and the far-reaching impact of their decisions.

Sunda also delves into her father’s spiritual legacy and its profound influence on her own worldview. U Chan Htoon’s deep connection to Buddhism extended beyond personal practice—he played a pivotal role in introducing S.N. Goenka to Sayagyi U Ba Khin, an encounter that would eventually lead to the global spread of Vipassana meditation. Sunda reflects on the dramatic upheavals of the 1962 coup, including her family’s imprisonment and exile. Despite these hardships, she has remained deeply committed to Myanmar’s pro-democracy movement, contributing to efforts like the National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma. Sunda’s story bridges the political struggles of the mid-20th century with the ongoing resistance against military rule today, underscoring the enduring relevance of her family’s legacy.

Sunda Khin’s recollection of S.N. Goenka, as seen in her above quote, is more than a charming anecdote; it captures a moment of profound historical significance. Her words paint a vivid picture of a young businessman arriving in Myanmar, gifts in hand and charm in abundance, unaware that his life—and countless others—was about to change forever. The contrast between the warmth of this meeting and the monumental outcomes it set in motion underscores the power of seemingly small moments. Her father’s invitation to Goenka to explore meditation in Myanmar was a humble act, yet it planted the seed for a global movement that would transform the lives of millions!

This story resonates because it reflects the quiet humanity behind historic change. Revolutions—whether spiritual or political—often begin not with grand proclamations but with simple, personal gestures. U Chan Htoon’s gentle encouragement of Goenka exemplifies this truth, highlighting the interconnectedness of lives and the profound impact of openness and kindness. Sunda’s memories remind us that history is shaped not just by monumental events but by the small, meaningful acts that ripple through time, carrying the potential to inspire change across generations.