The accession of King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD saw the suppression of the Mahavihara monks.
King Mahasena (273-301 AD) initiated the construction of the stupa following the destruction of Mahavihara, his son Meghavanna resume the construction work of the stupa.
The Devalaya in Embekka is dedicated to the worship of Mahasen, popularly known as Katharagama Deviyo.
Following king Jettha Tissa's death his brother Mahasena was consecrated as king by monk Sanghamitta, under the monk's influence king Mahasena brought about a campaign against orthodox Theravadins dwelling in Mahavihara.
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King Mahasena (273–301 AD) initiated the construction of the stupa following the destruction of Mahavihara.
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The sectarian differences between the Buddhist monks also are represented by the stupa as it was built on the premises of the destroyed Mahavihara, which led to a rebellion by a minister of king Mahasena.
The original irrigation reservoir and feeder canal from Daduru Oya were constructed by King Mahasena.