Like many of the existing high offices at the time it had combined legislative and judicial powers and functioned primarily equivalent to that of a Provincial governor.

Along with Maha Adigars and a few others high officials of the kingdom they made up the Radala caste, who were referred to as the Chieftains of Kandy by the British.

The civil, military and judicial administration of these units were carried out by a Dissava appointed by the Portuguese Captain General in keeping with the tradition of the land.

The Dutch continued the system of administration of the Portuguese, but gradually reduced the power of the local headmen.

Following the Uva Rebellion in 1818 and changers to the administrative divisions of the island with the creation of Districts, British Government Agents took over the duties of the Dissava, with the remaining and newly appointed Dissavas being mere honorary titles appointing Kandyans loyal to the British Crown as honors.