Anuradhapura Kingdom: Monarchy, Pandyan Dynasty, Sri Lanka, Buddhism, Relic of the tooth of the Buddha, Dutthagamani of Sri Lanka, Dhatusena of Sri Lanka, Gajabahu I of Sri Lanka
The Anuradhapura Kingdom was the first established kingdom in ancient Sri Lanka. Based around its capital,Anuradhapura, the kingdom's sway extended throughout the country, although at times there existed independent regions, particularly towards the end of the kingdom. However, the king of Anuradhapura was regarded as the supreme ruler throughout the island, although he did not have absolute control over it at all times.Pandukabhaya, the founding ruler of the kingdom, developed the city of Anuradhapura. A change in society and culture occurred when Buddhism was introduced to the country during the reign of Devanampiya Tissa, which was further strengthened by the arrival of the Tooth Relic of the Buddha in Sri Lanka and the patronage extended by the rulers.The culture of the Anuradhapura period was based on Buddhism, and even laws and governance of the kingdom were heavily influenced by it. Invasions from South India were a constant threat throughout the Anuradhapura period.
