Arachchi was the post of village headmen in British Ceylon. Appointed by the Government Agent of the district to administrate a village. A similar post existed in Courts, Karcheris and Government departments. Appointments were made to locals, usually from wealthy influential families loyal the British Crown. This was an influential post, the holder had much control over the populace of a village and had limited policing powers since he was responsible to keep the peace.
Vidane – There were several types of vidanes in a village Few examples are Police Vidane who had police powers to carry out police duties and Vel Vidane who was in charge of water. All these vidanes came under the supervision of an Arachchi
Arachchi – Several Vidanes came under the supervision of an Arachchi
Vidane Arachchi - Several Arachchies came under the supervision of a Vidane Arachchi
Muhandiram - Several Vidane Arachchies came under the supervision of a Muhandiram
Mudaliyar (Mudali) - Several Muhandirams came under the supervision of a Mudliyar (Mudali)
Gate Mudaliyar (Maha Mudali) - Several Mudaliyars (Mudalies) came under the supervision of a Gate Mudliyar (Maha Mudali). This was the highest post a native could hold under the British Administration