Sri Lankan Literary Sources for Mauryan History

Understanding the history of ancient India, particularly the Mauryan Empire, requires examining various sources. While Indian texts like the Arthashastra and Indica provide valuable insights, external sources also play a crucial role. Among these, the historical chronicles from Sri Lanka are significant for shedding light on the Mauryan period.

Key Sri Lankan Chronicles: Deepvansha and Mahavansha

Two prominent historical texts from Sri Lanka, written in the Pali language, are considered vital sources for the history of Sri Lanka and its connection with India, especially during the reign of Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire.

• Deepvansha: Meaning "Island Chronicle", the Deepvansha is one of the oldest historical records of Sri Lanka. It covers the island's history from its legendary beginnings up to the 4th century CE. It provides information about the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka, which is linked to Ashoka's missionary activities.
• Mahavansha: Meaning "Great Chronicle", the Mahavansha is a more comprehensive historical poem that picks up where the Deepvansha leaves off, covering the period from the 4th century BCE up to the time it was compiled (around the 5th or 6th century CE). It elaborates on the events mentioned in the Deepvansha and provides detailed accounts of the Mauryan emperor Ashoka's efforts to spread Buddhism, including sending his son Mahinda and daughter Sanghamitta to Sri Lanka.

These Sri Lankan texts, particularly the Mahavansha, are indispensable for corroborating information from Indian sources and providing unique details about the relationship between the Mauryan Empire and Sri Lanka, focusing heavily on the Buddhist perspective and the role of Ashoka.

Why Other Options Are Not Correct Sources

• Kangyur, Tangyur: These are the main collections of Tibetan Buddhist canons. While important Buddhist texts, they are not Sri Lankan literature and not primary sources for early Mauryan history in the same way the Deepvansha and Mahavansha are.
• Buddhist source, Formula: "Buddhist source" is too broad a term. While Deepvansha and Mahavansha are Buddhist sources, this option doesn't specifically name the relevant Sri Lankan texts. "Formula" is not a historical source.

Therefore, the specific Sri Lankan literary sources for knowing about the Mauryan period are the Deepvansha and the Mahavansha.