Contribution of the Sri Lankan Sources for Studying the Political History of India (from 5th Century B.C. To 4th Century B.C.)

Sri Lanka has a strong historical tradition and rich historical sources. In this context, it is important to study Sri Lankan historical sources to understand the history of nearby India and other South Asian countries better. Many scholars have recognised the historical significance and authenticity of Sri Lankan chronicles such as the Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa and Attakatha as historical sources. Many details or information in these sources align with archaeological sources and foreign records. Owing to the confusion found in Indian sources, it was challenging to study Indian history from a clear perspective in such a situation. The help received from Sri Lankan sources in order to construct Indian history is invaluable, especially during the period from the 6th century B.C. to the 4^th century B.C. Sri Lankan sources, in particular, have contributed very much to average and determine the years and periods relating to the Haryanka, Sisunaga, Nanda and Maurya dynasties. Many historians believe that Sri Lankan sources are more reliable with regard to this period than Indian sources. The main objective of this research is to study Indian political history from the 5th century B.C. to the 4^th century B.C. to analyse the contribution made by Sri Lankan sources to study and construct ancient Indian history. Accordingly, the discussion mainly focuses on India's political history during the stipulated period. The research methodology used is the study of primary sources. In this connection, the information provided by Sri Lankan chronicles and Attakathas in relation to Indian history was comparatively examined with those in Indian sources. In this study, it was able to identify the main tendencies in the political spheres in Indian history during the specified period. It also identified the royal dynasties and their correct sequences with correct dates.