July 18, Colombo (LNW): The collection of books containing the ‘Mahāvansha’ (also spelled Mahāvaṃsa) chronicles, the primary historical records of Sri Lanka, housed in the Peradeniya University Library, has been officially recognised as a world heritage.
The Director-General of UNESCO graced the ceremony as the chief guest.
The certificate declaring the Mahāvansha as a world heritage was presented to the Chancellor of Peradeniya University, Professor G.H. Peiris, by the UNESCO Director-General.
In recognition of her visit, Vice-Chancellor Professor M.D. Lamawansa presented a memento to the Director-General.
The University Librarian, Dr. M. Maheshvaran, was also present at the event.
The Mahāvansha is a detailed record of Sri Lanka’s history up to the time of King Mahasena of Anuradhapura. Composed in the style of an epic poem in the Pali language, it chronicles the island’s history from its mythical origins through the reign of King Mahasena.
The narrative begins with the arrival of Prince Vijaya from India in 543 BCE and has been updated by various authors over time.
Initially compiled by the Buddhist monk Mahanama at the Mahavihara temple in Anuradhapura during the 5th or 6th century CE, it remains a vital historical document.
