Born on October 30, 1943, in Panadura, Sri Lanka, Tilak was the younger son of physics lecturer Torger Ostin Fernando and Winifred Lillian Fernando. A promising student, his academic path took an unexpected turn in 1964 due to an accident, leading him to discover a unique presence that profoundly influenced those around him, enhancing their learning and awareness.

Tilak gained prominence through a series of articles on consciousness, which resonated deeply in Sri Lanka and beyond. His insights into human psychology and mysticism attracted attention from prestigious institutions in North America, leading him to speak at renowned centers like the Rosedale Medical Center in Toronto, Temple University in Philadelphia, and the Esalen Institute in California. Invited by leading scholars, he moved to the United States in 1974 and has since dedicated his life to seminars and workshops, guiding individuals toward personal transformation. Since 2000, he has resided in Las Vegas, continuing his mission to empower others.