Buddhist tradition consistently attributes the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka to missionary efforts undertaken during the reign of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. According to these historical accounts, the emperor dispatched his own son, Mahinda, to the island to propagate the teachings of the Buddha. This narrative serves as a foundational element in the island's religious identity, framing the arrival of the faith as a deliberate and royal-sanctioned endeavour that established a permanent presence for the religion in the region.

Whether examined through the lens of religious tradition or critical historical analysis, this event is widely recognised as the genesis of one of the most significant and enduring centres of Buddhism in the world. The establishment of these early missions facilitated the transmission of the Theravada tradition, which would go on to shape the cultural, social, and political landscape of Sri Lanka for centuries to come. The legacy of this period is preserved in ancient chronicles, which detail the warm reception of the missionaries by the local monarch, Devanampiya Tissa, and the subsequent formal adoption of the faith by the royal court.

The historical impact of these missions can be summarised by the following key developments:

• The formal introduction of Buddhist monastic institutions to the island.
• The establishment of a lasting link between the Mauryan Empire and the regional leadership of Sri Lanka.
• The creation of a stable environment for the preservation and study of early Buddhist scriptures.
• The long-term integration of Buddhist values into the governance and societal structure of the region.

While modern scholars continue to debate the precise historical details surrounding these missions, the traditional account remains a cornerstone of Sri Lankan history. The narrative not only highlights the expansive reach of Ashoka's influence but also underscores the pivotal role that royal patronage played in the early expansion of the faith. By securing a foothold in the island, these missions ensured that Buddhism could flourish independently, eventually evolving into a distinct and influential tradition that would later spread to other parts of Southeast Asia.