Published as a part of the series by VRI on the 'Great Disciples of the Buddha', this book aims to motivate old students to continue their practice seriously as well as to inspire new students to walk the same path as the exemplary practitioners of Vipassana meditation.

Born in a lower caste barber family, Upali was one of the foremost disciples of the Buddha. The chance meeting with the Buddha changed Upali’s life forever and he was ordained as a monk. Considered as the foremost in observing Vinaya (rules for monks), Upali played a phenomenal role in the first historical Council (Dhamma-Saṅgīti) arranged within three months of the Mahāparinibbāna (passing away) of the Buddha.

This book narrates the life-story of Upali, his virtues, discourses given by the Buddha on observance of Vinaya (rules for monks), teachings of Dhamma and guidance about maintaining concord in the Sangha (monastic order). Most importantly, this book gives an insight into the ministry of the Buddha, giving details about structure of the monastic order where importance was given to the virtues of a person rather than his/her caste, and the non-sectarian nature of the Buddha’s teachings.

This book is ideal for Vipassana meditators as well as non-meditators.