Land beyond the crown: Reassessing ownership and tenure in Anuradhapura period

Abstract

The economic foundation of ancient Sri Lanka was primarily based on paddy cultivation, with land and property being central to agricultural practices. While the terms "land" and "property" are often used interchangeably, in this context, property refers to a defined portion of land. In ancient Sri Lanka, ownership was understood as usufruct, the right to use and benefit from land rather than full legal ownership as defined by the modern Roman-Dutch legal system. Under this system, land rights could not simply be transferred through payment or mutual agreement. This study aims to examine the nature and evolution of land tenure during the Anuradhapura period. It focuses on themes such as land transfer, property rights, taxation systems, monastic property, private land ownership, and women’s participation in landholding. The research follows a systematic methodology, utilising both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources include literary and archaeological materials. Within the literary sources, indigenous chronicles, prose, and poetry are analysed, while inscriptions constitute a critical component of the archaeological evidence. Analysis of inscriptions and texts reveals that the land tenure system from the 6th century BCE to the 10th century BCE, contrary to the popular belief that the king owned all land. However, further analysis shows that usufruct rights extended not only to the king but also to common people, nobles, and women. Evidence of land sales and land holding by women points to a more nuanced and inclusive land tenure system. The Anuradhapura period’s land tenure system was diverse and legally complex, encompassing private, common, and state-owned lands, as well as inheritance-based and unclaimed properties. These findings offer valuable insights into the socio-legal structure of ancient Sri Lanka.