Origin
The Salagama believe that they originated from Saligrama Brahmins. According to this belief, the Saliyas were of Brahmin origin and were brought across the sea from Malabar (i.e. Kerala) by ship. However, since they would 'lose caste' if they touched the water, they had to be carried ashore by Moors on their heads, which is depicted in their flag.
According to the history mentioned, a Sinhala King Vathhimi Buvenekabahu had a problem of being crowned by Sinhalese Brahmins as he was not a pure Sinhalese. Thus, the King had to obtain the services of a Muslim nobleman "Periya Mudali Marikkar" from Beruwala to bring down "high caste" Brahmins from India for the coronation ceremony. This was carried out by Marrikkar, who was richly rewarded by the King, being given a bronze plaque giving the details of his noble deed and also several villages for his upkeep and benefit.
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