Mahavamsa (මහාවංශය)

  

Mahavamsa (මහාවංශය) is a historical chronicle written in Pali that documents the history of Sri Lanka from the arrival of Prince Vijaya in the 6th century BCE to later periods of Sinhala Buddhist rule. Composed by Buddhist monks, it is considered one of the most significant literary and historical texts in South Asia.

The Mahavamsa provides detailed accounts of Sri Lankan kings, the establishment and spread of Buddhism, and key events such as the arrival of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the reign of King Dutugemunu. Its blend of history, legend, and religious devotion reflects the deep connection between Sri Lanka’s monarchy and Buddhism.

The chronicle was written at the Mahavihara in Anuradhapura around the 5th century CE by the monk Mahanama. Over time, it has been continued in later texts such as the Culavamsa, extending the historical record into more recent centuries.

Today, Mahavamsa remains a valuable source for scholars, historians, and Buddhists. It is studied both as a historical document and as a spiritual narrative that helped shape the cultural and religious identity of Sri Lanka through generations.

  

Mahavamsa by Ananda W.P. Guruge

Mahavamsa is an ancient Sri Lankan chronicle written in Pali, detailing the island’s royal lineage and Buddhist history. It’s a key source on Sri Lanka’s early civilization and cultural heritage.

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