Devanampiya Tissa Raja

Devanampiya Tissa Raja was the king of Sri Lanka during the 3rd century BCE, noted for being the first ruler to embrace Buddhism after the arrival of Mihindu Maha Rahathan Wahanse. His conversion to Buddhism played a crucial role in the establishment of the religion as a major influence in Sri Lankan culture and governance. Under his rule, the foundations for a Buddhist civilization were laid, fostering the growth of monasteries and the promotion of Buddhist teachings throughout the island.