The life of Ha Bao Sinh, a former TVB actor renowned for his role in 'The Smiling, Proud Wanderer', has long been a subject of public fascination. Over the years, social media has circulated various rumors, suggesting he became a monk due to gambling losses or disillusionment with a declining career.

Ha Bao Sinh himself never addressed these speculations, choosing instead to focus on his spiritual practice. However, on 28/5, actor Lam Vy Than, a close friend, spoke publicly about their bond and the former actor's monastic journey, offering clarity on his decision.

Ha Bao Sinh in 'The smiling, proud wanderer' and after becoming a monk. *Photo: On*

Ha Bao Sinh grew up in a wealthy family, spending his childhood in a spacious villa with a swimming pool and sea views. Despite his privileged background, as an adult, he chose to live simply in a suburban apartment. He often cycled for transportation, dedicating the money he earned primarily to charity and the study of Buddhist teachings.

Ha Bao Sinh on screen. *Video: TVB*

Lam Vy Than explicitly refuted the rumors, stating, "There is absolutely no truth to the claims that Ha Bao Sinh was addicted to gambling or depressed about his career." He revealed that Ha Bao Sinh spent 4-5 years practicing at home before formally shaving his head, a symbolic act of becoming a monk. During this period, he lived independently, not relying on family assets, and supported himself using his specialized knowledge in computer science acquired from his studies abroad.

Actor Lu Tung Hsien (right) and Master Dao Sinh. In 'The smiling, proud wanderer' 1996, Lu Tung Hsien played Ling Hu Chong, and Ha Bao Sinh played Lin Ping Zhi. *Photo: On*

Ha Bao Sinh's relatives gradually accepted his chosen path. In 2005, he officially entered monastic life, taking the Dharma name Dao Sinh. This decision was a deliberate choice for Ha Bao Sinh, not a hasty reaction to "facing disadvantages in life," as some rumors suggested.

Expressing deep admiration, Lam Vy Than remarked, "In this life, the person I admire most, the person I miss most, is my elder brother Ha Bao Sinh. He rejected hundreds of millions of HKD (tens of millions of USD) to become a monk." Since then, Ha Bao Sinh has utilized his expertise in computer science to propagate Buddhist teachings.

Actor Lam Vy Than. *Photo: HK01*

Lam Vy Than credits Ha Bao Sinh as his benefactor. During a challenging period when Vy Than struggled with alcohol addiction and lacked enthusiasm for his work, Ha Bao Sinh guided him towards finding peace and joy. Inspired by Ha Bao Sinh's wisdom, Lam Vy Than shifted his focus to the well-being of others and became more active in charitable endeavors.

Nghinh Xuan (according to TVB, St Headline)