History of Rakhine
The
Rakhine people (Arakanese) claim a history that began in 3325 BC but historical evidence currently available does not support this claim.
According to legend, the first independent kingdom was
established in 3325 BC by King Marayu. Buddhism was introduced into
Rakhine during the lifetime of
Buddha himself. According to Rakhine Chronicles, the Buddha in his lifetime, visited the city of
Dhanyawadi in
554 BC. King
Sanda Thuriya requested the Buddha to leave an image of Himself. After casting the Great Image
Maha Muni, the Buddha breathed upon it which resembled the exact likeness of the Blessed One.