Heténys father was the operetta composer Albert Hetényi Heidelberg (1875–1951).
As a disciple of Lama Anagarika Govinda he became leader of the order of the Arya Maitreya Mandala.
During Communist government Buddhism as practising religion was not encouraged, but the activity of the Buddhist community was tolerated by the authorities.
He has been very successful in strengthening the order’s ties with Buddhist communities and institutions in Mongolia and countries of the former Soviet Union.
"[1] Hetényi published numerous books and articles on Buddhism and Tibet.