Reign of Parakramabahu II in Dambadeniya Kingdom.

The reign of Parakramabahu II, who ruled from 1236 to 1270, was a significant period in the history of Sri Lanka, particularly for the Dambadeniya Kingdom. Parakramabahu II is remembered as one of the most capable and enlightened rulers of the medieval period in Sri Lanka. His reign marked a time of cultural revival, literary achievements, and efforts to consolidate and strengthen the kingdom during a period of political fragmentation and external threats. The Dambadeniya Kingdom The Dambadeniya Kingdom was established in the 13th century after the decline of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, which had been the center of Sinhalese power and culture. The capital was moved to Dambadeniya, a more defensible location in the central part of the island, partly due to the constant invasions and the need for a safer capital. Parakramabahu II ascended the throne of Dambadeniya following the reign of his father, Vijayabahu III. His father had laid the foundation for the Dambadeniya Kingdom, but it was Parakramabahu II who truly solidified its power and prestige. Parakramabahu II's Achievements 1. Political Consolidation and Military Successes: Parakramabahu II is credited with reasserting the authority of the Dambadeniya Kingdom over other regions of Sri Lanka, which had become fragmented following the decline of Polonnaruwa. His reign was marked by efforts to reunify the island under his rule. He successfully defended the kingdom against invasions from the Pandyan Dynasty of South India, which was a persistent threat to the Sinhalese rulers during this period. His military campaigns helped secure the kingdom's borders and maintain its independence. 2. Cultural and Literary Contributions: Parakramabahu II is particularly celebrated for his contributions to Sinhalese literature and Buddhism. He was a patron of the arts and letters and is said to have authored several important literary works himself, including the "Kausilumina," a renowned poetic work that is considered a masterpiece of medieval Sinhalese literature. Under his patronage, the Dambadeniya Kingdom became a center for learning and culture. 3. Religious Revitalization: During his reign, Parakramabahu II worked to restore and support Buddhist institutions that had suffered during the previous centuries of warfare and foreign invasions. He rebuilt temples and monasteries, supported the Sangha (Buddhist monastic community), and promoted Buddhist education and scholarship. This revitalization of Buddhism was a key aspect of his reign and contributed to the religious and cultural identity of the kingdom. The Legacy of Parakramabahu II Parakramabahu II's reign is remembered as a period of relative stability and cultural flourishing in the history of Sri Lanka. His efforts to reunify the island, defend it against external threats, and promote literature and religion left a lasting impact on the country. The Dambadeniya Kingdom, under his leadership, became a strong and vibrant center of power in medieval Sri Lanka, even as it faced the challenges of a changing political landscape. After his death in 1270, the kingdom continued under his successors, but the challenges of maintaining unity and defending against external invasions persisted. Nevertheless, Parakramabahu II's reign remains a highlight of the Dambadeniya period and a testament to his capabilities as a ruler. #MomentsOfLife #MoofLife_Moment #MoofLife #SriLanka #ParakramabahuII #Dambadeniya #MedievalHistory