Dhatusena

AncientEmperorSri Lanka455 — 473

King who built the Kalawewa tank.

Compare Dhatusena with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

455

Died

473

Country

Sri Lanka

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)48

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)49

Legacy (20%)45

Leadership (15%)74

Strategy (15%)41

Total Score53.6

Dhatusena — Complete Timeline

458 AD

Restoration of the MahaviharaPolitical Action

Dhatusena restored the Mahavihara, the main Buddhist monastery in Anuradhapura, which had been damaged during the reign of Mahasena. This act reaffirmed his support for Theravada Buddhism.

BuddhismRestorationReligion

Impact: nationalconstructive

460 AD

Construction of Kalawewa TankOther◆ Major

Dhatusena constructed the Kalawewa tank, a massive irrigation reservoir in the North Central Province. The tank, with a circumference of over 30 miles, was a major engineering feat and provided water for extensive rice cultivation.

IrrigationAgricultureInfrastructure

Impact: regionalconstructive

465 AD

Construction of Yoda Ela CanalOther◆ Major

Dhatusena built the Yoda Ela, a 54-mile-long canal that connected the Kalawewa tank to the Tissa Wewa tank in Anuradhapura. This canal ensured a reliable water supply to the capital and surrounding farmlands.

IrrigationEngineeringInfrastructure

Impact: regionalconstructive

473 AD

Assassination by KashyapaPolitical Action◆ Major

Dhatusena was assassinated by his son Kashyapa, who seized the throne. Kashyapa had Dhatusena walled up alive after the king refused to reveal the location of hidden treasure.

AssassinationCivil WarDynastic Conflict

Impact: nationaltragic