Persons were appointed to the title and office by the King, these appointees headed the administration of a large province of the Kingdom known as a "Dissava" and was the king's personal representative, tax collector in that area. In modern terms the post was similar to a combination of the post of Chief Minister and a governor of a province of Sri Lanka. There was no time limit for the officer holder as he held the post at the pleasure of the King, which meant throughout his life, if not incurred the displeasure of the King. It was not hereditary, although members of the same family have been appointed.