Introduction
Sena and Guttika, considered the first invaders to arrive in Lanka according to the Mahavamsa, were two Dravidian horse traders. They ruled the throne of Lanka for 22 years, from 227 BCE to 205 BCE, after deposing King Surathissa and seizing power. Their reign marked the beginning of an aggressive and unrighteous era in Sri Lankan history.
Early Life and Arrival in Lanka
Sena and Guttika were two Dravidian horse traders, believed to have come from India. It is stated that they initially came to Lanka for trade and later joined King Surathissa’s army, serving for some time. It can be surmised that during this period, they gained an understanding of the weaknesses within the kingdom.
Rise to Power
While serving in the king’s army, Sena and Guttika conspiratorially planned to seize power. According to the Mahavamsa, they killed King Surathissa and forcibly usurped the throne. This marked the beginning of the first foreign invading rule in Lanka, disrupting the rule of a native Sinhala royal lineage for the first time.
Reign
Sena and Guttika ruled Lanka for 22 years. Their reign is described in the Mahavamsa as an ‘unrighteous’ rule. It is mentioned that they governed the country while destroying temples and monasteries, which clearly indicates their anti-Buddhist stance. During this period, peace and religious harmony in the country were disturbed, and the people are believed to have suffered. Historians surmise that there was unrest in the country against their rule.
Legacy
The rule of Sena and Guttika marked the beginning of an aggressive era in Sri Lankan history. They are remembered as the first foreign invaders and kings who conducted an unrighteous rule. Their actions, especially the destruction of Buddhist shrines, led to the opposition of subsequent Sinhala kings and the populace, and it is considered one of the reasons for the emergence of heroes like King Dutugemunu. There is also a belief that they were eventually defeated by King Elara, but clear information regarding this is not available.