Nissanka

Nissanka is a Sri Lankan name of Sinhalese origin that functions as both a given name and a surname. It is used among Sinhala-speaking communities and appears in historical records as well as modern public life, reflecting a long-standing presence in Sri Lankan naming traditions.

Historically, Nissanka Malla is cited as a king of the Anuradhapura Kingdom in Sri Lanka, a ruler from the medieval period featured in the island’s royal chronicles. The form Nissanka is associated with this era in traditional sources and has contributed to the name’s continued usage in Sri Lankan history and culture.

In contemporary times, the name is carried by public figures such as Pathum Nissanka (born 1998), a Sri Lankan international cricketer who has represented the national team in Test and limited-overs formats. Beyond notable individuals, Nissanka remains a common element in Sinhala names and is found among Sri Lankan communities and the diaspora, illustrating the name’s ongoing presence in personal and cultural identity.