Pottuvil in the South East coast of Sri Lanka, once a part of the Ruhunu Kingdom is privy to an ancient legend. Many of its area names are derived from this legend and other Sinhalese and Tamil language words.
The legend
A brave princess from Kelaniya, who sacrificed herself to the sea to save her kingdom, is believed to have landed on this south eastern shore.
Historical evidence unearthed in the area indicates that Princess Viharamahadevi’s ship landed here. The place she landed is marked by the Muhudu Maha Viharaya. Her wedding to the ruler of Ruhunu, King Kavantissa is today known as the Magul Maha Viharaya. In addition to historical remnants, the legend had led to the coinage of many names in the area.
A legendary debate – Though many believe the princess landed in Kirinde in the South, historical evidence points to the landing place being Pottuvil. It is said that the Princess was possibly first spotted at Kirinde, where her ship drifted past its rocky beach to land in the sandy shore of the south east.
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So here’s what’s in a name…
Komari – Coined from King Kavantissa’s questions, “Ko Kumari” meaning “Where is the princess?” in Sinhalese. The place the king asked the question is today named Komari.
Arugambay – Derived from “Ara Gam Bokke”, meaning “at the bay of that village”. When summoned by King Kavantissa, his subjects are said to have pointed to the bay now called Arugambay and said that is where they saw the princess’ ship.
Nintavur – Those involved in the search and rescue of the princess were rewarded with “Nindagam” or villages for their services. This is belived to have resulted in those areas being named “Nintavur”.
Akkaraipattu – Ten acres of land each were presented to others who helped the King locate Princess Viharamaha Devi. In Tamil, acres is “Akkarai” and ten is “Pattu”. These lands gifted by royal order, are believed to have later received the township name “Akkaraipattu”.
More names with a story…
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Whisky Point – A popular surfing point named for its “swirling waves” derived from the Tamil word, “Whisakey”.
Elephant Tax – This is new and not a name of a place. It is actually an additional fee – an incentive for tuk tuks to transport passengers through the landscape ruled by these mostly gentle giants, elephants.