Podcast
Questions and Answers
What was the collective organization known as in ancient Sri Lanka?
What was the collective organization known as in ancient Sri Lanka?
Traders in ancient Sri Lanka were known as 'Vapara'.
Traders in ancient Sri Lanka were known as 'Vapara'.
True
Who offered a cave for Buddhist monks' stay as mentioned in the inscriptions found in Hambanthota district?
Who offered a cave for Buddhist monks' stay as mentioned in the inscriptions found in Hambanthota district?
Sumana
The people who made pottery in ancient Sri Lanka were called _______.
The people who made pottery in ancient Sri Lanka were called _______.
Signup and view all the answers
Match the following terms with their meanings:
Match the following terms with their meanings:
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Ancient Industry in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka had a well-organized industry 2250 years ago, with a collective organization known as 'Poogaya' or 'Niyamasthana'.
Trade and Commerce
- People engaged in trade were known as “Wanija” or “Vapara”, with the latter being the Sinhala term for 'Vyaparika', meaning business.
- The rich were involved in trade and offered caves to Buddhist monks for their stay.
- A trader named Sumana offered a cave, which was mentioned in the inscriptions found in Hambanthota district.
Markets and Administration
- The city of Anuradhapura was a place where ancient markets were organized, with King Udaya IV (946-954 AD) organizing the market and its administration.
- The inscriptions mention the Hopitigama market and the laws governing trade.
- A fine was imposed on anyone who did business on 'Poya' days (full moon days), and they had to supply oil for the temple lamps to compensate.
Pottery Industry
- Ancient people of Sri Lanka had a well-developed pottery industry.
- The people who made pottery were called Kumbhakara.
Spinning and Weaving
- The art of spinning, weaving, and trading were prevalent in ancient times.
- The inscriptions mention 'Thathvaya', which means spinning and weaving.
Cities and Trade
- Anuradhapura and Magama were prominent cities, known as 'Pura', where local and foreign traders lived.
- A bazaar called ‘Kalasumana’ existed in the southern gate of Anuradhapura.
- The ancient people of Sri Lanka organized themselves collectively, engaged in different industries, and traded with foreign countries.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Learn about the ancient industry of Sri Lanka, including the collective organization of 'Poogaya' or 'Niyamasthana', trade and commerce, and the role of Buddhist monks.
