Chora Naga | |
King of Anuradhapura | |
Reign: | 62 BC – 50 BC |
Predecessor: | Mahakuli Mahatissa |
Successor: | Kuda Tissa |
Spouse: | Anula |
Spouse-Type: | Consort |
House: | House of Vijaya |
Father: | Valagamba |
Chora Naga, also known as Coranaga or Mahanaga, was King of Anuradhapura in the 1st century BC, who ruled from 62 BC to 50 BC. He succeeded his cousin Mahakuli Mahatissa as King of Anuradhapura and was succeeded by Kuda Tissa. King Chora Naga was not a follower of the Mahavihara sect. He had even demolished 18 temples that belong to Mahavira. As a result, the author of the Mahāvaṃsa referred to him as a thief. [1]
The Mahavamsa states that King Chora Naga was poisoned and killed by Anula of Anuradhapura, his queen consort, who fell in love with a royal guard in the palace called Siva and let him become the ruler of the country. However, there is also a possibility that the people of Anuradhapura, who were frustrated at Chora Naga's mischief, assassinated him.