Chola Dynasty Reign: 205-161 BCE

King Elara

Elara, a Chola king from the Soli country in what is now South India, ruled a part of Sri Lanka, including Anuradhapura, from 205 BCE to 161 BCE. Considered a righteous king even by the Sinhalese, he maintained a long period of peaceful rule.

Key Achievements

Ruled a part of Sri Lanka for 44 years.
Maintained Anuradhapura as the ancient capital.
Maintained a righteous and just rule.
Earned the respect of all, including the Sinhalese, without racial discrimination.

Introduction

King Elara was a Tamil from the Soli country, part of the then Chola Kingdom in what is now South India. He arrived in Sri Lanka in 205 BCE, took control of a portion of it, and ruled until 161 BCE, a long period of 44 years. His rule included the ancient capital city of Anuradhapura.

Reign

King Elara’s reign extended from 205 BCE to 161 BCE. During this 44-year period, he ruled a significant area of Sri Lanka, with Anuradhapura serving as the center of his kingdom. Traditional sources attest that he maintained a peaceful and stable administration throughout his long reign.

Righteous Rule and Reputation

King Elara’s most notable characteristic was his righteous rule. Although he was a Tamil from the Soli country, it is remarkable that even the Sinhalese traditionally regarded him as a just king. This speaks to the fairness and equity of his administrative policies. By maintaining an impartial rule without ethnic discrimination among the people, he earned the respect of all. His reign is recorded in history as an exemplary administration that prioritized justice.