Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Buddhism in Sri Lanka is the most widespread religion in the country. Approximately 69.1 % of the total population, of which mainly Sinhalese, belong to the Theravada Buddhism.
History
After a traditional Sri Lankan chronicles, the Dipavamsa, the Buddha's teaching came in the 2nd century BC by the son of the Indian emperor Ashoka, Mahinda, to the island. At that time there was king Tissa Devanampiya over large parts of the country ( reigned 307-267 BC). He converted to Buddhism and had the Mahi Sri Bodhi planted in Anuradhapura, a descendant of the poplar - tree figs, said to have been found under the Siddhartha Gautama enlightenment.
Colonial
From the 16th century followed led by the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialists Christian proselytizing in the areas they conquered.
At the end of the 19th century began a nationwide Buddhist movement, which found many adherents in the country. One of the main reasons was the Panadura debate between a Christian priest and a Buddhist monk Migettuwatte Gunananda Thera, the latter could decide for themselves. As a result, more and more segments of the population turned to the conscious Buddhism.
Pay
Development of Buddhism from 1881 to 2001:
1 Not included, since the census was carried out from 2001 only in 18 of 25 districts.