Bhatika Abhaya
King of Anuradhapura
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Bhatika Abhaya or also known as Bhatikatissa was the King of Anuradhapura in the 1st century BC, whose reign lasted from 20 BC to 7 AD. He succeeded his father Kutakanna Tissa as King of Anuradhapura and was succeeded by his brother Mahadathika Mahanaga.[1][2]
| Bhatikabhaya Abhaya | |
|---|---|
| King of Anuradhapura | |
An 8 feet high stone statue of Bhatikabhaya Abhaya facin the Ruwanwelisaya | |
| Reign | 20 BC – 7 AD |
| Predecessor | Kutakanna Tissa |
| Successor | Mahadathika Mahanaga |
| Died | 7 AD |
| Consort | Samadevi |
| Dynasty | House of Vijaya |
| Father | Kutakanna Tissa |
| Mother | Anula Devi (as per inscriptions-different from Queen Anula) |
| Religion | Theravāda Buddhism |
It is recorded that the king coated the Ruvanweliseya in pearls and had it scented with flowers and honeycombs yearly. It is also recorded that the king was generous towards the Viharaya’s across Sri Lanka gifting clothes and giving daily alms.[2]
His reign of 29 years is recorded in Sri Lankan history as a very peaceful and prosperous time in the Anuradhapura kingdom.[a] During his period of rule the king stopped collecting taxes.[2]
Relations with Rome
It is mentioned in historical texts that King Bhathikabhaya imported beads from the Romanukha (Roman Empire).[3][4]
A freedman of Annius Plocamus had mistakenly sailed on to the territory of Anuradhapura kingdom and had the opportunity to meet the king of Anuradhapura kingdom, the impressive collection of Roman coins caught the interest of the king on the western civilization and with the freedman a Sinhalese person was taken back to the mainland of the Roman Empire, it is said that he had become a diplomat for the Roman Empire.[5][6]
Works by the king
See also
Notes
- During his period no known conflicts took place.
