Kandy kingdom.
The Kingdom of Kandy, a beacon of resilience and cultural preservation, flourished in the central highlands of Sri Lanka from the late 15th century until the early 19th century. Its strategic geographical position and astute leadership allowed it to resist colonial powers far longer than other Sri Lankan kingdoms.
The kingdom's genesis can be traced back to Senasammata Vikramabahu (r. 1469–1511), who established Kandy as a prominent seat of power. Positioned amidst rugged mountains and dense forests, Kandy’s natural fortifications played a crucial role in its defense against both regional rivals and foreign invaders.
During the 16th century, the Portuguese began their incursions into Sri Lanka, capturing coastal regions and seeking to extend their control inland. The Kandyan kings, however, were formidable adversaries. The rugged terrain and the Kandyans' guerrilla tactics frustrated Portuguese efforts. King Vimaladharmasuriya I (r. 1590–1604) notably led successful campaigns to resist Portuguese domination, preserving the kingdom's sovereignty.
In the 17th century, the Dutch ousted the Portuguese from Sri Lanka’s coasts. Initially, the Kandyan kings, seeking to expel the Portuguese, allied with the Dutch. This alliance, however, was tenuous and fraught with mutual distrust. King Rajasinghe II (r. 1635–1687) adeptly played the Dutch and other regional powers against each other, ensuring Kandy’s continued independence.
The 18th century saw the rise of Kirti Sri Rajasinha (r. 1747–1782), who is remembered for his contributions to Buddhism and cultural revival in Kandy. He invited Buddhist monks from Siam (Thailand) to restore the higher ordination of monks in Sri Lanka, a significant religious and cultural milestone. Under his reign, Kandy became a center of Buddhist learning and art, with the Temple of the Tooth Relic becoming a focal point of worship and pilgrimage.
The final chapter of Kandy’s independence began with the ascension of Sri Vikrama Rajasinha (r. 1798–1815). His reign coincided with increasing British interest in Sri Lanka, following the island’s cession by the Dutch to the British in 1796. Despite his efforts to maintain autonomy, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha faced internal dissent and external pressure. In 1815, the British, capitalizing on internal betrayals and uprisings, managed to capture Kandy. The Kandyan Convention was signed, and the kingdom was annexed to the British Empire, ending over three centuries of independence.
Though the Kingdom of Kandy fell, its legacy endures. The preservation of Sinhalese culture, the flourishing of Buddhism, and the architectural splendor of its temples and palaces remain a testament to its rich history and resilient spirit.
By: Midhaat Ahamed.
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