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https://doi.org/10.1142/9781783269969_0015Cited by:0 (Source: Crossref)
Abstract:

Sri Lanka is a tropical island of approximately 25,000 square miles to the south of the Indian subcontinent. It is by a narrow body of water from the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, with a population of about 22 million. The island nation has a recorded history since the late 6th century B.C.E. In the mid-third century B.C.E., Buddhism was introduced to the island from India, and a great civilisation came to be in the cities of Anuradhapura (c. 200 BC.E.-1000 C.E) and Polonnaruwa (from approximately 1070–1200 C.E.) — one of the most advanced in the world at the time. In its history, Sri Lanka served as the centre for Theravadha Buddhism after India, and played a central role in the spread of Buddhism regionally, earning it respect and awe from its neighbours. Sri Lanka has enjoyed strong relationships since early times with India, China and most Southeast Asian nations, which developed due to Buddhist links, and had trade links even as far as the Roman empire which began with its traditional exports of spices and precious gems. Its position at the centre of the Indian Ocean attracted traders, invaders, travelers, pilgrims and scholars since ancient times, and the island was also known for its landscapes and natural beauty. From early times, Sri Lanka has enjoyed an international reputation.