Tribes in Ancient India c38.34

c38.34

The relations between the Damiḷa country and Ceylon were not always inimical. For instance, the account of Vijaya in the *Mahāvaṃsa*⁶ distinctly brings out that a matrimonial alliance existed between the rulers of Laṅkā and Pāṇḍya. It is also mentioned that there was a very early settlement in Ceylon of skilled craftsmen and families of the eighteen guilds, all from Pāṇḍya. There existed a close cultural relationship and constant intercourse between S. India and Ceylon; notable centres of Buddhist learning mentioned in Pāli works being Kāverīpaṭṭaṇa, Madhurā and Kāñcipura (modern Conjeeveram).