Udon Thani Marks 104 Years Since Luang Pu Li's Birth
Devotees in Udon Thani honored the 104th birthday of Luang Pu Li Kusaladhro, a revered forest monk who served as a principal disciple in the lineage of two legendary Buddhist teachers and devoted his life to teaching Dharma and supporting c
On Saturday, September 5, 2026, devotees commemorated the 104th birthday of Luang Pu Li Kusaladhro, a revered forest monk at Wat Pa Kesorn Silakun Tham Chedi (Phu Pha Daeng) in Nong Wua So District, Udon Thani Province, whom residents deeply respected and held in high esteem. As a forest monk adhering to the Buddha's teachings, he served as a spiritual refuge for devout Buddhists dedicated to the Dharma. He was a principal disciple of Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta, the late abbot of Wat Pa Ban Tat.
Originally named Li Kusaladhro, he was born on Monday, September 5, 1922, in Lom Kao District, Phetchabun Province, to Ud Thongkham, a goldsmith, and Phodi Chali Chiang Phin. His grandparents were originally from Vientiane, Laos, and relocated to Lom Kao during an ancestral conflict. After young Li was born, his parents moved to Dan Sai District, Loei Province, and later his mother relocated to Ban Nampoon, Nong Wua So District, Udon Thani, where she raised him as a farmer.
At age 20, he married Ms. Wattee, but after losing his first child, he became deeply sorrowful. Later, after hearing Dharma teachings from Luang Pu Seuan Yai, a monk from Ubon Ratchathani in the lineage of Luang Pu Mun, he was inspired to ordain. He took full monastic vows on January 30, 1951, at age 29 at Wat Si Phon Muang in Sakon Nakhon Province, receiving the ordination name "Kusaladhro," meaning "one who maintains wisdom."
That day coincided with the cremation of Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatta. In his first vassa (rainy season), Luang Pu Li studied Dhamma and meditation under Luang Pu Singh Kham Taya and Luang Pu Mahaphin Panyapalo at Wat Pa Thong Khun in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. He subsequently devoted himself entirely to studying and practicing under Luang Pu Mun's principal disciple, Luang Pu Bua Yanansamphanto, eventually serving as Luang Pu Bua's attendant through his mentor's final illness and passing.
Luang Pu Li was renowned for his deep respect and service to Luang Pu Bua. Whether supporting Luang Pu Bua's charitable endeavors for Thailand—including constructing the 96-year longevity hall, establishing Udon Thani Central Hospital, or founding Suan Tham Radio Station—Luang Pu Li was steadfastly present. He remained devoted to caring for his teacher during serious illness and managed monastery affairs with complete dedication.
After Luang Pu Bua's passing and funeral, Luang Pu Li oversaw all ceremonies to their completion. He taught monks, novices, and lay followers the principles of virtue and Dharma, encouraging them to be morally upright, harmonious, and wise in their conduct.
