A Flourishing Cradle of Sri Lankan Civilization
The Anuradhapura Kingdom stands as one of the most illustrious chapters in the history of Sri Lanka, showcasing a golden era of cultural, political, and spiritual development. Spanning over 1,300 years, from 377 BC to 1017 AD, this ancient kingdom became a beacon of innovation, art, and Buddhism, leaving behind an enduring legacy that continues to inspire.
Origins and Early Foundations
The origins of the Anuradhapura Kingdom can be traced back to the foundation laid by King Pandukabhaya in 377 BC. He established Anuradhapura as the capital, transforming it into a thriving metropolis and the center of governance. The city was strategically located in the dry zone of Sri Lanka, enabling it to harness advanced irrigation systems, which became the lifeblood of its agricultural economy.
The kingdom inherited a legacy of statecraft and organization from earlier polities, such as the Kingdom of Tambapanni. While Tambapanni served as the island’s first organized settlement under King Vijaya, and later Upatissagāma emerged under King Upatissa, Anuradhapura marked a pivotal shift in the island's political and cultural trajectory.
Notable Kings of the Anuradhapura Kingdom
The Anuradhapura Kingdom was ruled by a long line of kings who contributed significantly to its development. Some of the most notable rulers include:
King Pandukabhaya (377–314 BC): The founder of Anuradhapura, credited with establishing its urban planning and governance.
King Devanampiya Tissa (247–207 BC): Known for introducing Buddhism to Sri Lanka with the help of Arahat Mahinda.
King Dutugemunu (161–137 BC): Celebrated for uniting Sri Lanka and defeating the Tamil King Elara.
King Valagamba (103 BC & 89–77 BC): Remembered for reclaiming the throne after an invasion and constructing the Abhayagiri Vihāra.
King Vasabha (67–111 AD): Renowned for his extensive irrigation projects and the construction of numerous tanks.
King Mahasen (277–304 AD): Referred to as “Mahasen the Great,” he built the massive Minneriya Tank and supported the Abhayagiri Vihāra.
King Dhatusena (455–473 AD): Best known for constructing the Kala Wewa reservoir and the Avukana Buddha statue.
King Mahinda V (982–1017 AD): The last king of Anuradhapura, whose reign ended with the Chola conquest.
These kings, along with many others, played pivotal roles in shaping the kingdom’s history and ensuring its prosperity for over a millennium.
The Role of Buddhism in Shaping Anuradhapura
Buddhism played a central role in the Anuradhapura Kingdom, with its introduction during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa (247–207 BC). The arrival of Arahat Mahinda, the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, marked a turning point in Sri Lanka’s history. Under King Devanampiya Tissa’s patronage, Buddhism flourished, laying the foundation for its deep integration into the island's culture.
The construction of iconic religious monuments began during this period. The Mahāvihāra, Abhayagiri Vihāra, and Jetavanarama became renowned centers of Buddhist learning and worship, attracting scholars and pilgrims from across Asia. The sacred Bodhi Tree, grown from a sapling of the original tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, was planted in Anuradhapura and remains one of the oldest recorded trees in the world.
Enshrinement of Buddha’s Relics in the Mahāthūpā (Great Stupa)
One of the most remarkable events in the history of Buddhism in Anuradhapura is the enshrinement of Buddha’s relics in the Mahāthūpā (Ruwanwelisaya). The Mahāvamsa and Thūpavamsa provide vivid accounts of this sacred event, emphasizing its divine and miraculous nature.
According to the Mahāvamsa, Emperor Ashoka chose not to retrieve the relics of the Buddha in the possession of the Nāgas at Ramagrama due to a prophecy. It was foretold that these relics would eventually be enshrined in Sri Lanka by King Dutugāmini. On receiving the relics, King Dutugāmini carried the sacred casket atop his head, amidst offerings and honors from gods and "Brahmas."
The relics were enshrined in the Mahāthūpā with great ceremony. The Thūpavamsa describes the participation of numerous beings, including the Nāga King Mahākāla, who had guarded the relics. The relics were placed on a golden throne crafted by Visvakarman, the divine artisan, and brought by Indra. Brahmā offered an invisible umbrella of sovereignty, while the Arhat Indagutta created a protective canopy over the universe to prevent interference by Māra. As monks chanted the Sutta Pitaka, the relics miraculously formed the image of the Buddha with his 32 major and 80 minor signs, performing the "twin miracle" of fire and water.
When the relics returned to the casket, they were laid to rest within a lion’s reclining image, created according to the Buddha’s determination. The chamber was then sealed with stone slabs, protected by the spiritual power of the Arahants present. It was determined that the relic-chamber would remain untouched by time or human interference, with offerings such as flowers, lamps, and golden goods preserved eternally.
This miraculous event not only symbolized the sanctity of the Mahāthūpā but also reinforced the role of Anuradhapura as a spiritual epicenter of Buddhism.
Achievements in Urban Planning and Irrigation
Anuradhapura was a marvel of urban planning and hydraulic engineering. The city boasted a well-organized layout with palaces, monasteries, gardens, and reservoirs. Kings like Vasabha (67–111 AD) and Mahasen (277–304 AD) constructed monumental irrigation works, including tanks and canals, to sustain agriculture in the dry zone. The Kala Wewa, Tissa Wewa, and Nachchaduwa Wewa reservoirs exemplify the advanced engineering skills of the time.
The irrigation systems were interconnected, creating a network that could distribute water efficiently across vast tracts of land. These innovations not only ensured food security but also allowed the kingdom to support a growing population and maintain a high standard of living.
Ancient Constructions of the Anuradhapura Kingdom
The Anuradhapura Kingdom is renowned for its monumental constructions that highlight its advanced engineering and devotion to Buddhism. Some of the most iconic structures include:
Ruwanwelisaya: A magnificent stupa built by King Dutugemunu, considered one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in Sri Lanka.
Jetavanaramaya: Constructed by King Mahasen, this stupa was one of the tallest structures in the ancient world.
Abhayagiri Vihāra: A prominent monastery complex built by King Valagamba, serving as a center of Buddhist learning.
Thuparamaya: The first Buddhist stupa in Sri Lanka, built by King Devanampiya Tissa, enshrining a relic of the Buddha.
Mirisawetiya Stupa: Built by King Dutugemunu, this stupa commemorates a significant event in his reign.
Lankarama Stupa: Another stupa constructed during the Anuradhapura period, showcasing architectural elegance.
Isurumuniya Vihara: A rock temple famed for its intricate carvings, including the "Lovers" sculpture.
Sacred Bodhi Tree (Sri Maha Bodhi): Planted during King Devanampiya Tissa’s reign, it remains a symbol of Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage.
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds): Elaborate bathing ponds reflecting the sophistication of ancient water management systems.
Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace): A nine-story structure built by King Dutugemunu, originally used as a residence for monks.
These constructions underscore the kingdom’s dedication to religion, engineering excellence, and artistic expression.
Political Stability and International Relations
The Anuradhapura Kingdom was ruled by a succession of kings, many of whom were skilled administrators and visionaries. The stability of the kingdom allowed it to establish diplomatic and trade relations with other regions, including India, China, and the Roman Empire. Archaeological evidence, such as Roman coins and Chinese ceramics, attests to the kingdom’s active engagement in international commerce.
Despite periods of internal strife and invasions,