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{{Short description|Period in the history of Sri Lanka during the Anuradhapura Kingdom (377 BC-1017 AD)}}
{{Short description|Period in the history of Sri Lanka during the Anuradhapura Kingdom (377 BC-1017 AD)}}
{{Main|History of Sri Lanka|Anuradhapura Kingdom}}
{{Being merged to|Anuradhapura kingdom|discuss=Talk:Anuradhapura Kingdom#Merge proposal|date=January 2026}}
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{{Infobox historical era
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{{Main|History of Sri Lanka|Anuradhapura Kingdom}}
{{History of Sri Lanka}}
{{History of Sri Lanka}}
The '''Anuradhapura period''' was a period in the history of Sri Lanka of the [[Anuradhapura Kingdom]] from 377 BCE to 1017 CE. The period begins when [[Pandukabhaya of Anuradhapura|Pandukabhaya]], [[Kingdom of Upatissa Nuwara|King of Upatissa Nuwara]] moved the administration to [[Anuradhapura]], becoming the kingdom's first monarch. Anuradhapura is heralded as an ancient cosmopolitan citadel with diverse populations.
The '''Anuradhapura period''' was a period in the history of Sri Lanka of the [[Anuradhapura Kingdom]] from 377 BCE to 1017 CE. The period begins when [[Pandukabhaya of Anuradhapura|Pandukabhaya]], [[Kingdom of Upatissa Nuwara|King of Upatissa Nuwara]] moved the administration to [[Anuradhapura]], becoming the kingdom's first monarch. Anuradhapura is heralded as an ancient cosmopolitan citadel with diverse populations.
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==Political history==
==Political history==
===Early Anuradhapura period (377 BCE-463 CE)===
===Early Anuradhapura period (377 BCE – 463 CE)===
[[Pandukabhaya of Anuradhapura|Pandukabhaya]] (437–367 BCE) King of Upatissa Nuwara and the first monarch of the Anuradhapura Kingdom and 6th over all of the island of Sri Lanka since the arrival of the [[Vijaya of Sri Lanka|Vijaya]], he reigned from 437 BC to 367 BCE. According to many historians and philosophers, he is the first truly Sri Lankan king since the Vijayan invasion, and also the king who ended the conflict between the Sinha clan and local community, reorganizing the populace.
[[Pandukabhaya of Anuradhapura|Pandukabhaya]] (437–367 BCE), king of Upatissa Nuwara was the first monarch of the Anuradhapura Kingdom and 6th over all of the island of Sri Lanka since the arrival of [[Vijaya of Sri Lanka|Vijaya]]. He reigned from 437 BC to 367 BCE. According to many historians and scholars, he was the first truly Sri Lankan king since the arrival of Vijaya and the ruler who ended the conflict between the Sinha clan and the local communities, reorganizing the populace.
 
[[Ellalan|Elara]] (205–161 BCE), a [[Tamil People|Tamil]] King of [[Chola dynasty|Chola]] origin, ruled "Pihiti Rata"- the region of Sri Lanka north of the [[Mahaweli]] - after defeating King [[Asela of Sri Lanka|Asela]]. During Elara's time, [[Kelani Tissa]] was a sub-king of [[Maya Rata]] in the southwest and [[Kavan Tissa]] was a regional sub-king of [[Ruhuna]] in the southeast. Kavan Tissa constructed [[Tissa Maha Vihara]], [[Dighavapi Tank]] and numerous shrines in Seruvila. His eldest son, [[Dutthagamani of Sri Lanka|Dutugemunu]] (161–137 BCE), at the age of 25 defeated the South Indian Tamil Invader Elara, then over 64 years of age, in single combat, as described in the [[Mahavamsa]]. Dutugemunu is often depicted as a Sinhalese "Asoka". [[Ruwanwelisaya]], which he constructed, is a dagaba of pyramid-like proportions and stands as an engineering marvel of its time


[[Ellalan|Elara]] (205–161 BCE), a [[Tamil People|Tamil]] King with [[Chola dynasty|Chola]] origins, who ruled "Pihiti Rata", i.e., Sri Lanka north of the [[mahaweli]], after killing King [[Asela of Sri Lanka|Asela]]. During Elara's time, [[Kelani Tissa]] was a sub-king of [[Maya Rata]] (south-west) and [[Kavan Tissa]] was a regional sub-king of [[Ruhuna]] (south-east). Kavan Tissa built [[Tissa Maha Vihara]], [[Dighavapi Tank]] and many shrines in Seruvila. [[Dutthagamani of Sri Lanka|Dutugemunu]] (161–137 BCE) – Eldest son of King Kavan Tissa, who was a young man 25 years of age, defeated the South Indian Tamil Invader Elara (over 64 years of age) in single combat, described in the [[Mahavamsa]]. Dutugemunu is depicted as a Sinhalese "Asoka". The [[Ruwanwelisaya]], built by this king is a dagaba of pyramid-like proportions. It was an engineering marvel.
[[Pulahatta]] (or Pulahatha) was deposed by [[Bahiya]], who in turn was deposed by [[Panaya Mara]], followed by [[Pilaya Mara]], and later murdered by [[Dathiya]] in 88 BCE,  until [[Vattagamani Abhaya of Sri Lanka|Valagamba]] finally deposed him, bringing an end to Tamil rule. Valagamba I (89–77) BCE restored the [[House of Vijaya|Dutugamunu dynasty]]. During his reign, doctrinal disputes arose between the Mahavihara ([[Theravada]])  and Abhayagiri (pro-[[Mahayana]]) traditions. The [[Tripitaka]] was committed to writing in [[Pali]] at [[Aluvihara]], [[Matale]]. [[Chora Naga of Anuradhapura|Chora Naga]] (also known as Mahanaga) reigned from 63–51 BCE and was allegedly poisoned by his consort Anula. [[Queen Anula]] (48–44 BCE),  widow of Chora Naga and later [[Kuda Tissa of Anuradhapura|Kuda Tissa]], became the first queen to rule Sri Lanka. She gained notoriety for having multiple lovers, many of whom were reportedly poisoned by her. Queen Anula was eventually killed by Kuttakanna Tissa. Vasabha (67–111 CE) is noted for the [[Vallipuram]] gold plate, fortifying [[Anuradhapura]], constructing eleven tanks, and issuing several edicts. [[Gajabahu I of Sri Lanka|Gajabahu I]] (114–136 CE)  invaded the [[Chola kingdom]] bringing back captives and recovering the sacred [[tooth relic|Tooth Relic]] of the Buddha.


[[Pulahatta]] (or Pulahatha) deposed by [[Bahiya]], was deposed by [[Panaya Mara]], deposed by [[Pilaya Mara]], murdered by [[Dathiya]] 88 BCE – deposed by [[Vattagamani Abhaya of Sri Lanka|Valagamba]], ending Tamil rule. Valagamba I (89–77) BCE – restored the [[House of Vijaya|Dutugamunu dynasty]]. The Mahavihara [[Theravada]] – Abhayagiri (pro-[[Mahayana]]) doctrinal disputes arose at this time. The [[Tripitaka]] was written in [[Pali]] at [[Aluvihara]], [[Matale]]. [[Chora Naga of Anuradhapura|Chora Naga]] (Mahanaga) (63–51) BCE; poisoned by his consort Anula. [[Queen Anula]] (48–44 BCE) – Widow of Chora Naga and [[Kuda Tissa of Anuradhapura|Kuda Tissa]], was the first Queen of Lanka. She had many lovers who were poisoned by her. She was finally killed by: Kuttakanna Tissa. Vasabha (67–111 CE) – [[Vallipuram]] gold plate; he fortified [[Anuradhapura]] and built eleven tanks; many edicts. [[Gajabahu I of Sri Lanka|Gajabahu I]] (114–136) – invaded the [[Chola kingdom]] and brought back captives. He recovered the [[tooth relic]] of the Buddha.
[[Mahasena of Sri Lanka|Mahasena]] (274–301 CE) initially persecuted the [[Theravada]] Mahāvihāra, allowing [[Mahayana]] influence to rise, though he later reconciled wirh the Mahāvihāra. Pandu  (429 CE) was the first of seven Pandyan rulers, ending with Pithya in 455 CE. [[Dhatusena of Sri Lanka|Dhatusena]] (459–477 CE), his uncle, oversaw the composition of the Mahavamsa by Mahanama, and constructed Kalaweva. His son [[Kashyapa I of Sri Lanka|Kashyapa]] (477–495 CE), built the renowned [[Sigiriya]] rock palace where some 700 rock inscriptions offer a glimpse into ancient [[Sinhala language|Sinhala]] life and language.


[[Mahasena of Sri Lanka|Mahasena]] (274–301) – The [[Theravada]] (Maha Vihara) was persecuted and [[Mahayana]] surfaced. Later the King returned to the Maha Vihara. Pandu  (429) – first of seven Pandiyan rulers, ending with Pithya, 455; [[Dhatusena of Sri Lanka|Dhatusena]] (459–477), his uncle, Mahanama wrote the Mahavamsa, he built "Kalaweva". His son [[Kashyapa I of Sri Lanka|Kashyapa]] (477–495), built the famous [[Sigiriya]] rock palace. Some 700 rock graffiti give a glimpse of ancient [[Sinhala language|Sinhala]].
====Arrival of Buddhism and the sacred Tooth Relic====
[[Devanampiya Tissa of Sri Lanka|Devanampiya Tissa]] (250–210 BCE), a [[Sinhalese people|Sinhalese]] King of the [[Maurya]] lineage, played a pivotal role in introducing Buddhism to Sri Lanka. His links with Emperor [[Asoka]] facilitated the arrival of [[Mahinda (buddhist monk)|Mahinda]], son of Asoka in 247 BCE to spread the teachings of the Buddha. [[Sangamitta]], Mahinda's sister, brought a [[Bodhi]] sapling to the island via Jambukola (Sambiliturei).  [[Sangamitta]]'s son Samanera Sumana also accompanied them to aid in propagating [[Buddhism]], following the [[Third Buddhist Council]], upon the recommendation of [[Moggaliputta-Tissa]] (Ashoka's spiritual teacher). They were further accompanied by Bhankuka, a lay disciple and maternal grandson of [[Mahinda (buddhist monk)|Mahinda]]'s aunt.


====Arrival of Buddhism and the sacred tooth relic====
However, historical evidence does not confirm that Emperor Ashoka had a son named Mahinda (or by any other name) or a daughter named Sangamitta. King Devanampiya Tissa’s reign was crucial for the establishment of [[Theravada Buddhism]] in Sri Lanka and had a lasting impact on the island’s religious and cultural history.
[[Devanampiya Tissa of Sri Lanka|Devanampiya Tissa]] (250–210 BCE), a [[Sinhalese people|Sinhalese]] King of the [[Maurya]] clan. His links with Emperor [[Asoka]] led to the introduction of [[Buddhism]] by [[Mahinda (buddhist monk)|Mahinda]] (son of Asoka) in 247 BCE. [[Sangamitta]], (sister of Mahinda) brought a [[Bodhi]] sapling via Jambukola (Sambiliturei).  [[Sangamitta]]'s son Saamanera Sumana also accompanied them to spread [[Buddhism]], following the [[Third Buddhist Council]], upon the recommendation of [[Moggaliputta-Tissa]] (Ashoka's spiritual teacher). They were also accompanied by a lay disciple Bhankuka, who was a maternal grandson of [[Mahinda (buddhist monk)|Mahinda]]'s aunt. There is no evidence in the history of King Ashoka about his having had a son by the name of Mahinda (or by any other name) or a daughter by the name of Sangamitta (or by any other name). This king's reign was crucial to [[Theravada Buddhism]], and for Sri Lanka.


===Middle Anuradhapura period (463-691)===
===Middle Anuradhapura period (463–691)===


===Late Anuradhapura period (691-1017)===
===Late Anuradhapura period (691–1017)===
====Lambakanna====
====Lambakanna====
[[Manavanna of Anuradhapura|Manavanna]] (684–718) – seized the throne with [[Pallava]] help. Manavamma introduced Pallava patronage for three centuries.
[[Manavanna of Anuradhapura|Manavanna]] (684–718 CE) seized the throne with the support of the [[Pallava]]s, introducing Pallava patronage that lasted for three centuries. By the 9th century, however, the [[Pandyan]] ascendancy in southern India led to the sacking of Anuradhapura. In response, the Sinhalese mounted a counter-invasion using a rival Pandya prince, ultimately sacking [[Madurai]] itself. [[Mahinda V of Sri Lanka|Mahinda V]] (982–1029CE) was the last Sinhalese monarch of Anuradhapura. He fled to [[Principality of Ruhuna|Ruhuna]], but in 1017, the Cholas captured him and took him to India, where he died in captivity.
By the 9th century, with the [[Pandyan]] ascendancy in southern India, Anuradhapura was sacked. However, the [[Sinhalese people|Sinhalese]] invaded Pandya using a rival prince, and [[Madurai]] itself was sacked. [[Mahinda V of Sri Lanka|Mahinda V]] (982–1029) – was the last Sinhalese monarch of Anuradhapura. He fled to [[Ruhuna]], where, in 1017, the Chola took him to prison and he died in India.


====Demise====
====Demise====
In 993, the Chola Emperor [[Rajaraja I]] invaded Sri Lanka, forcing the then Sri Lankan ruler Mahinda V to flee to the southern part of the country.{{sfn|Siriweera|2004|p=44}} The Mahavamsa describes the rule of Mahinda V as weak, and the country was suffering from poverty by this time. It further mentions that his army rose against him due to lack of wages.{{sfn|Wijesooriya|2006|p=114}} Taking advantage of this situation, [[Rajendra I]] son of Rajaraja I, launched a large invasion in 1017. Mahinda V was captured and taken to India, and the Cholas sacked the city of Anuradhapura. They moved the capital to [[Polonnaruwa]] and subsequent Sri Lankan rulers who came into power after the Chola reign continued to use Polonnaruwa as the capital, thus ending the Anuradhapura Kingdom.{{sfn|Siriweera|2004|p=44}}
In 993 CE, the Chola Emperor [[Rajaraja I]] invaded Sri Lanka, forcing the then Sri Lankan ruler Mahinda V to flee to the south of the country.{{sfn|Siriweera|2004|p=44}} The Mahavamsa describes the rule of Mahinda V as weak, and the country was suffering from poverty by this time. It further mentions that his army rose against him due to lack of wages.{{sfn|Wijesooriya|2006|p=114}} Taking advantage of this situation, [[Rajendra I]], son of Rajaraja I, launched a large invasion in 1017. Mahinda V was captured and taken to India, and the Cholas sacked the city of Anuradhapura. They moved the capital to [[Polonnaruwa]] and subsequent Sri Lankan rulers who came into power after the Chola reign continued to use Polonnaruwa as the capital, thus ending the Anuradhapura Kingdom.{{sfn|Siriweera|2004|p=44}}


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
===Arrival of Tamils===
===Arrival of Tamils===
[[Potsherds]] with [[Tamil-Brahmi|early Tamil writing]] from the 5th century BCE have been found from the north in [[Poonagari|Poonakari]], [[Jaffna]] to the south in [[Tissamaharama Tamil Brahmi inscription|Tissamaharama]]. They bore several inscriptions, including a clan name—vela, a name related to [[Velirs|velir]] from [[ancient Tamil country]].{{sfn|Mahadevan|2003|p=48}} [[Epigraphic]] evidence shows people identifying themselves as Damelas or Damedas (the [[Indo-Aryan languages|Indo-Aryan]] [[Prakrit]] word for Tamil people) in [[Anuradhapura]], the capital city of [[Rajarata]] the middle kingdom, and other areas of Sri Lanka as early as the 2nd century BCE.{{sfn|Indrapala|2007|p=157}} Excavations in the area of Tissamaharama in southern Sri Lanka have unearthed locally issued coins, produced between the 2nd century BC and the 2nd century CE, some of which carry local Tamil personal names written in early Tamil characters,{{sfn|Mahadevan|2000|p=152–154}} which suggest that Tamils were present and actively involved in trade along the southern coast of Sri Lanka by the late classical period.{{sfn|Bopearachchi|2004|p=546–549}} Other ancient inscriptions from the period reference a Tamil merchant,{{NoteTag|"Dameda vanija gahapati Vishaka"}} the Tamil householder residing in Ilubharata{{NoteTag|"Ilu bhartechi Dameda karite Dameda gahapatikana"}} and a Tamil sailor named Karava.{{NoteTag|"Dameda navika karava"}} Two of the five ancient inscriptions referring to the Damedas (Tamils) are in Periya Pullyakulam in the [[Vavuniya District]], one is in Seruvavila district in [[Trincomalee District]], one is in Kuduvil in [[Amparai District]] and one is in [[Anuradhapura]]. Mention is made in literary sources of Tamil rulers bringing horses to the island in water craft in the second century BCE, most likely arriving at [[Kudiramalai]]. Historical records establish that Tamil kingdoms in modern India were closely involved in the island's affairs from about the 2nd century BCE.{{sfn|De Silva|1981|p=30–32}}
[[Potsherds]] bearing [[Tamil-Brahmi|early Tamil writing]] dating back to the 5th century BCE have been discovered across Sri Lanka, from [[Poonagari|Poonakari]] in [[Jaffna]] in the north to [[Tissamaharama Tamil Brahmi inscription|Tissamaharama]] in the south. These inscriptions include clan names such as "Vela," which is related to the [[Velirs|velir]] of [[ancient Tamil country]].{{sfn|Mahadevan|2003|p=48}} [[Epigraphic]] evidence also indicates that people identified themselves as Damelas or Damedas - the [[Indo-Aryan languages|Indo-Aryan]] [[Prakrit]] word for Tamil people - in [[Anuradhapura]], the capital of [[Rajarata]], as well as in other parts of the island as early as the 2nd century BCE.{{sfn|Indrapala|2007|p=157}} Excavations in the area of Tissamaharama in southern Sri Lanka have unearthed locally issued coins, produced between the 2nd century BC and the 2nd century CE, some of which carry local Tamil personal names written in early Tamil characters,{{sfn|Mahadevan|2000|p=152–154}} which suggest that Tamils were present and actively involved in trade along the southern coast of Sri Lanka by the late classical period.{{sfn|Bopearachchi|2004|p=546–549}} Other ancient inscriptions from the period reference a Tamil merchant,{{NoteTag|"Dameda vanija gahapati Vishaka"}} the Tamil householder residing in Ilubharata{{NoteTag|"Ilu bhartechi Dameda karite Dameda gahapatikana"}} and a Tamil sailor named Karava.{{NoteTag|"Dameda navika karava"}} Two of the five ancient inscriptions referring to the Damedas (Tamils) are in Periya Pullyakulam in the [[Vavuniya District]], one is in Seruvavila district in [[Trincomalee District]], one is in Kuduvil in [[Amparai District]] and one is in [[Anuradhapura]]. Literary sources also mention Tamil rulers bringing horses to the island in water craft in the second century BCE, most likely arriving at [[Kudiramalai]]. Historical records establish that Tamil kingdoms in modern India were closely involved in the island's affairs from about the 2nd century BCE.{{sfn|De Silva|1981|p=30–32}}


==Technology==
==Technology==
{{Main|Ancient constructions of Sri Lanka|Irrigation works in ancient Sri Lanka}}
{{Main|Ancient constructions of Sri Lanka|Irrigation works in ancient Sri Lanka}}


The irrigation works in ancient [[Sri Lanka]] dated from about 300 BC during the reign of King [[Pandukabhaya]] and under continuous development for the next thousand years, were one of the most complex [[irrigation system]]s of the [[ancient world]]. In addition to underground [[canal]]s, the [[Sinhalese people|Sinhalese]] were the first to build completely artificial reservoirs and [[dams]] to store water. The system was extensively restored and further extended during the reign of King [[Parākramabāhu]].
The irrigation works of ancient [[Sri Lanka]] which began around 300 BC during the reign of King [[Pandukabhaya]] and continued to be developed over the next thousand years, ranked among the most complex [[irrigation system]]s of the [[ancient world]]. In addition to the underground [[canal]]s, the [[Sinhalese people|Sinhalese]] were the first to construct entirely artificial reservoirs and [[dams]] for water storage. The system was extensively restored and further extended during the reign of King [[Parākramabāhu]].


==Monarchs==
==Monarchs==
The [[House of Vijaya]], [[The Five Dravidians]], [[House of Lambakanna I]], [[The Six Dravidians]], [[House of Moriya]] and the [[House of Lambakanna II]] produced 122 monarchs who ruled during this period.  
The [[House of Vijaya]], [[The Five Dravidians]], [[House of Lambakanna I]], [[The Six Dravidians]], [[House of Moriya]] and the [[House of Lambakanna II]] collectively produced 122 monarchs who ruled during this period.


==Timeline==
==Timeline==
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|inc  = 100
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|axis-negativeFmt  =%s BCE
|axis-negativeFmt  =%s BCE
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|caption      = Anuradhapura period
|caption      = Anuradhapura period
}}
}}
===Events===
===Events===
* 377 BCE: The [[Anuradhapura Kingdom]] is founded by [[Pandukabhaya of Anuradhapura|Pandukabhaya]]
* 377 BCE: The [[Anuradhapura Kingdom]] is founded by [[Pandukabhaya of Anuradhapura|Pandukabhaya]]
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==References==
==References==
===Citations===  
===Citations===
{{reflist|30em}}
{{reflist|30em}}


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{{refbegin|30em}}
{{refbegin|30em}}
* {{Cite book| last = De Silva|first= K. M. | title = A history of Sri Lanka| url = https://archive.org/details/bub_gb_dByI_qil26YC | publisher = [[University of California Press]] | year = 1981 | isbn = 978-0-520-04320-6 }}
* {{Cite book| last = De Silva|first= K. M. | title = A history of Sri Lanka| url = https://archive.org/details/bub_gb_dByI_qil26YC | publisher = [[University of California Press]] | year = 1981 | isbn = 978-0-520-04320-6 }}
* {{cite book |last1=Mahadevan |first1=Iravatham |title=Early Tamil epigraphy from the earliest times to the sixth century A.D. |publisher=Cre-A |isbn=9780674012271}}
* {{cite book |last1=Mahadevan |first1=Iravatham |title=Early Tamil epigraphy from the earliest times to the sixth century A.D. |date=2003 |publisher=Cre-A |isbn=9780674012271}}
*von Schroeder, Ulrich. 1990. ''Buddhist Sculptures of Sri Lanka''. 752 pages with 1610 illustrations. Hong Kong: Visual Dharma Publications, Ltd. {{ISBN|962-7049-05-0}}
*von Schroeder, Ulrich. 1990. ''Buddhist Sculptures of Sri Lanka''. 752 pages with 1610 illustrations. Hong Kong: Visual Dharma Publications, Ltd. {{ISBN|962-7049-05-0}}
*von Schroeder, Ulrich. 1992. ''The Golden Age of Sculpture in Sri Lanka''. [Catalogue of the exhibition held at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Washington, D. C., 1 November 1992 – 26 September 1993]. 160 pages with 64 illustrations. Hong Kong: Visual Dharma Publications, Ltd. {{ISBN|962-7049-06-9}}
*von Schroeder, Ulrich. 1992. ''The Golden Age of Sculpture in Sri Lanka''. [Catalogue of the exhibition held at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Washington, D. C., 1 November 1992 – 26 September 1993]. 160 pages with 64 illustrations. Hong Kong: Visual Dharma Publications, Ltd. {{ISBN|962-7049-06-9}}
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* {{cite book|last=Siriweera|first=W. I.|title=A Study of the Economic History of Pre Modern Sri Lanka|publisher=Vikas Publishing House|year=1994|isbn=978-0-7069-7621-2|pages=44–45}}
* {{cite book|last=Siriweera|first=W. I.|title=A Study of the Economic History of Pre Modern Sri Lanka|publisher=Vikas Publishing House|year=1994|isbn=978-0-7069-7621-2|pages=44–45}}
* {{cite book|last=Wijesooriya|first=S.|title=A Concise Sinhala Mahavamsa|publisher=Participatory Development Forum|year=2006|isbn=978-955-9140-31-3}}
* {{cite book|last=Wijesooriya|first=S.|title=A Concise Sinhala Mahavamsa|publisher=Participatory Development Forum|year=2006|isbn=978-955-9140-31-3}}
* {{cite journal|last1=Paranavithana|first1=Senarath|title=Two Royal Titles of the Early Sinhalese, and the Origin of Kingship in Ancient Ceylon|journal=Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland|issue=3|pages=443–462}}
* {{cite journal|last1=Paranavithana|first1=Senarath|title=Two Royal Titles of the Early Sinhalese, and the Origin of Kingship in Ancient Ceylon|journal=Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland|date=July 1936|volume=68 |issue=3|pages=443–462 |doi=10.1017/S0035869X0007725X }}
* {{cite journal|last=Mahadevan|first=Iravatham|author-link=Iravatham Mahadevan|title=Ancient Tamil Coins from Sri Lanka|journal=Journal of the Institute of Asian Studies|volume=XVII|issue=2|pages=147–156}}
* {{cite journal|last=Mahadevan|first=Iravatham|author-link=Iravatham Mahadevan|date=March 2000|title=Ancient Tamil Coins from Sri Lanka|journal=Journal of the Institute of Asian Studies|volume=XVII|issue=2|pages=147–156}}
{{refend}}
{{refend}}


Latest revision as of 08:11, 3 March 2026


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The Anuradhapura period was a period in the history of Sri Lanka of the Anuradhapura Kingdom from 377 BCE to 1017 CE. The period begins when Pandukabhaya, King of Upatissa Nuwara moved the administration to Anuradhapura, becoming the kingdom's first monarch. Anuradhapura is heralded as an ancient cosmopolitan citadel with diverse populations.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Periodization of Sri Lanka history:

Political history[edit | edit source]

Early Anuradhapura period (377 BCE – 463 CE)[edit | edit source]

Pandukabhaya (437–367 BCE), king of Upatissa Nuwara was the first monarch of the Anuradhapura Kingdom and 6th over all of the island of Sri Lanka since the arrival of Vijaya. He reigned from 437 BC to 367 BCE. According to many historians and scholars, he was the first truly Sri Lankan king since the arrival of Vijaya and the ruler who ended the conflict between the Sinha clan and the local communities, reorganizing the populace.

Elara (205–161 BCE), a Tamil King of Chola origin, ruled "Pihiti Rata"- the region of Sri Lanka north of the Mahaweli - after defeating King Asela. During Elara's time, Kelani Tissa was a sub-king of Maya Rata in the southwest and Kavan Tissa was a regional sub-king of Ruhuna in the southeast. Kavan Tissa constructed Tissa Maha Vihara, Dighavapi Tank and numerous shrines in Seruvila. His eldest son, Dutugemunu (161–137 BCE), at the age of 25 defeated the South Indian Tamil Invader Elara, then over 64 years of age, in single combat, as described in the Mahavamsa. Dutugemunu is often depicted as a Sinhalese "Asoka". Ruwanwelisaya, which he constructed, is a dagaba of pyramid-like proportions and stands as an engineering marvel of its time

Pulahatta (or Pulahatha) was deposed by Bahiya, who in turn was deposed by Panaya Mara, followed by Pilaya Mara, and later murdered by Dathiya in 88 BCE,  until Valagamba finally deposed him, bringing an end to Tamil rule. Valagamba I (89–77) BCE restored the Dutugamunu dynasty. During his reign, doctrinal disputes arose between the Mahavihara (Theravada)  and Abhayagiri (pro-Mahayana) traditions. The Tripitaka was committed to writing in Pali at Aluvihara, Matale. Chora Naga (also known as Mahanaga) reigned from 63–51 BCE and was allegedly poisoned by his consort Anula. Queen Anula (48–44 BCE),  widow of Chora Naga and later Kuda Tissa, became the first queen to rule Sri Lanka. She gained notoriety for having multiple lovers, many of whom were reportedly poisoned by her. Queen Anula was eventually killed by Kuttakanna Tissa. Vasabha (67–111 CE) is noted for the Vallipuram gold plate, fortifying Anuradhapura, constructing eleven tanks, and issuing several edicts. Gajabahu I (114–136 CE)  invaded the Chola kingdom bringing back captives and recovering the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha.

Mahasena (274–301 CE) initially persecuted the Theravada Mahāvihāra, allowing Mahayana influence to rise, though he later reconciled wirh the Mahāvihāra. Pandu (429 CE) was the first of seven Pandyan rulers, ending with Pithya in 455 CE. Dhatusena (459–477 CE), his uncle, oversaw the composition of the Mahavamsa by Mahanama, and constructed Kalaweva. His son Kashyapa (477–495 CE), built the renowned Sigiriya rock palace where some 700 rock inscriptions offer a glimpse into ancient Sinhala life and language.

Arrival of Buddhism and the sacred Tooth Relic[edit | edit source]

Devanampiya Tissa (250–210 BCE), a Sinhalese King of the Maurya lineage, played a pivotal role in introducing Buddhism to Sri Lanka. His links with Emperor Asoka facilitated the arrival of Mahinda, son of Asoka in 247 BCE to spread the teachings of the Buddha. Sangamitta, Mahinda's sister, brought a Bodhi sapling to the island via Jambukola (Sambiliturei). Sangamitta's son Samanera Sumana also accompanied them to aid in propagating Buddhism, following the Third Buddhist Council, upon the recommendation of Moggaliputta-Tissa (Ashoka's spiritual teacher). They were further accompanied by Bhankuka, a lay disciple and maternal grandson of Mahinda's aunt.

However, historical evidence does not confirm that Emperor Ashoka had a son named Mahinda (or by any other name) or a daughter named Sangamitta. King Devanampiya Tissa’s reign was crucial for the establishment of Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka and had a lasting impact on the island’s religious and cultural history.

Middle Anuradhapura period (463–691)[edit | edit source]

Late Anuradhapura period (691–1017)[edit | edit source]

Lambakanna[edit | edit source]

Manavanna (684–718 CE) seized the throne with the support of the Pallavas, introducing Pallava patronage that lasted for three centuries. By the 9th century, however, the Pandyan ascendancy in southern India led to the sacking of Anuradhapura. In response, the Sinhalese mounted a counter-invasion using a rival Pandya prince, ultimately sacking Madurai itself. Mahinda V (982–1029CE) was the last Sinhalese monarch of Anuradhapura. He fled to Ruhuna, but in 1017, the Cholas captured him and took him to India, where he died in captivity.

Demise[edit | edit source]

In 993 CE, the Chola Emperor Rajaraja I invaded Sri Lanka, forcing the then Sri Lankan ruler Mahinda V to flee to the south of the country.[1] The Mahavamsa describes the rule of Mahinda V as weak, and the country was suffering from poverty by this time. It further mentions that his army rose against him due to lack of wages.[2] Taking advantage of this situation, Rajendra I, son of Rajaraja I, launched a large invasion in 1017. Mahinda V was captured and taken to India, and the Cholas sacked the city of Anuradhapura. They moved the capital to Polonnaruwa and subsequent Sri Lankan rulers who came into power after the Chola reign continued to use Polonnaruwa as the capital, thus ending the Anuradhapura Kingdom.[1]

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Arrival of Tamils[edit | edit source]

Potsherds bearing early Tamil writing dating back to the 5th century BCE have been discovered across Sri Lanka, from Poonakari in Jaffna in the north to Tissamaharama in the south. These inscriptions include clan names such as "Vela," which is related to the velir of ancient Tamil country.[3] Epigraphic evidence also indicates that people identified themselves as Damelas or Damedas - the Indo-Aryan Prakrit word for Tamil people - in Anuradhapura, the capital of Rajarata, as well as in other parts of the island as early as the 2nd century BCE.[4] Excavations in the area of Tissamaharama in southern Sri Lanka have unearthed locally issued coins, produced between the 2nd century BC and the 2nd century CE, some of which carry local Tamil personal names written in early Tamil characters,[5] which suggest that Tamils were present and actively involved in trade along the southern coast of Sri Lanka by the late classical period.[6] Other ancient inscriptions from the period reference a Tamil merchant,[note 1] the Tamil householder residing in Ilubharata[note 2] and a Tamil sailor named Karava.[note 3] Two of the five ancient inscriptions referring to the Damedas (Tamils) are in Periya Pullyakulam in the Vavuniya District, one is in Seruvavila district in Trincomalee District, one is in Kuduvil in Amparai District and one is in Anuradhapura. Literary sources also mention Tamil rulers bringing horses to the island in water craft in the second century BCE, most likely arriving at Kudiramalai. Historical records establish that Tamil kingdoms in modern India were closely involved in the island's affairs from about the 2nd century BCE.[7]

Technology[edit | edit source]

Main articles: Ancient constructions of Sri Lanka and Irrigation works in ancient Sri Lanka

The irrigation works of ancient Sri Lanka which began around 300 BC during the reign of King Pandukabhaya and continued to be developed over the next thousand years, ranked among the most complex irrigation systems of the ancient world. In addition to the underground canals, the Sinhalese were the first to construct entirely artificial reservoirs and dams for water storage. The system was extensively restored and further extended during the reign of King Parākramabāhu.

Monarchs[edit | edit source]

The House of Vijaya, The Five Dravidians, House of Lambakanna I, The Six Dravidians, House of Moriya and the House of Lambakanna II collectively produced 122 monarchs who ruled during this period.

Timeline[edit | edit source]

Template:Simple Horizontal timeline

Events[edit | edit source]

In popular culture[edit | edit source]

Main article: Anuradhapura period in popular culture

See also[edit | edit source]

Notes[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Dameda vanija gahapati Vishaka"
  2. ↑ "Ilu bhartechi Dameda karite Dameda gahapatikana"
  3. ↑ "Dameda navika karava"

References[edit | edit source]

Citations[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Siriweera 2004, p. 44.
  2. ↑ Wijesooriya 2006, p. 114.
  3. ↑ Mahadevan 2003, p. 48.
  4. ↑ Indrapala 2007, p. 157.
  5. ↑ Mahadevan 2000, p. 152–154.
  6. ↑ Bopearachchi 2004, p. 546–549.
  7. ↑ De Silva 1981, p. 30–32.

Bibliography[edit | edit source]

  • De Silva, K. M. (1981). A history of Sri Lanka. University of California Press. ISBN 978-0-520-04320-6.
  • Mahadevan, Iravatham (2003). Early Tamil epigraphy from the earliest times to the sixth century A.D. Cre-A. ISBN 9780674012271.
  • von Schroeder, Ulrich. 1990. Buddhist Sculptures of Sri Lanka. 752 pages with 1610 illustrations. Hong Kong: Visual Dharma Publications, Ltd. ISBN 962-7049-05-0
  • von Schroeder, Ulrich. 1992. The Golden Age of Sculpture in Sri Lanka. [Catalogue of the exhibition held at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Washington, D. C., 1 November 1992 – 26 September 1993]. 160 pages with 64 illustrations. Hong Kong: Visual Dharma Publications, Ltd. ISBN 962-7049-06-9
  • Bandaranayake, Senake (2007). Sigiriya. Central Cultural Fund. ISBN 978-955-613-111-6.
  • Bopearachchi, Osmund (2004). "Ancient Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu". In Chevillard, Jean-Luc; Wilden, Eva (eds.). South-Indian Horizons: Felicitation Volume for François Gros on the occasion of his 70th birthday. Publications du Département d'Indologie – 94. Pondicherry: Institut Français de Pondichéry / École Française d'Extrême-Orient. pp. 546–549. ISBN 978-2-85539-630-9. ISSN 0073-8352.
  • Indrapala, K. (2007). The Evolution of an Ethnic Identity: The Tamils in Sri Lanka C. 300 BCE to C. 1200 CE. Colombo: Vijitha Yapa. ISBN 978-955-1266-72-1.
  • Lokubandara, W. J. M. (2007). The Mistique of Sigiriya — Whispers of the Mirror Wall. Godage International Publishers. ISBN 978-955-30-0610-3.
  • Mendis, Ranjan Chinthaka (1999). The Story of Anuradhapura. Lakshmi Mendis. ISBN 978-955-96704-0-7.
  • Perera, Lakshman S. (2001). The Institutions of Ancient Ceylon from Inscriptions. Vol. 1. International Centre for Ethnic Studies. ISBN 978-955-580-055-6.
  • Rambukwelle, P. B. (1993). Commentary on Sinhala Kingship — Vijaya to Kalinga Magha. Sridevi Printers. ISBN 978-955-95565-0-3.
  • Siriweera, W. I. (2004). History of Sri Lanka. Dayawansa Jayakodi & Company. ISBN 978-955-551-257-2.
  • Siriweera, W. I. (1994). A Study of the Economic History of Pre Modern Sri Lanka. Vikas Publishing House. pp. 44–45. ISBN 978-0-7069-7621-2.
  • Wijesooriya, S. (2006). A Concise Sinhala Mahavamsa. Participatory Development Forum. ISBN 978-955-9140-31-3.
  • Paranavithana, Senarath (July 1936). "Two Royal Titles of the Early Sinhalese, and the Origin of Kingship in Ancient Ceylon". Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland. 68 (3): 443–462. doi:10.1017/S0035869X0007725X.
  • Mahadevan, Iravatham (March 2000). "Ancient Tamil Coins from Sri Lanka". Journal of the Institute of Asian Studies. XVII (2): 147–156.

Further reading[edit | edit source]

Main article: Bibliography of Sri Lanka
Preceded by
Pre Anuradhapura period 		Anuradhapura period
of Sri Lankan history
377 BC–1017 		Succeeded by
Chola occupation of Anuradhapura

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