Introduction
King Jayabahu I was a ruler who reigned for a short period in the Polonnaruwa Kingdom of Sri Lanka. He was the brother of King Maha Vijayabahu, and his reign was limited to a brief one-year period from 1110 to 1111 CE.
Ascension to the Throne
After the death of King Maha Vijayabahu, his legitimate son, Vikramabahu, was in Ruhunu. Without Vikramabahu’s knowledge, the nobles and the Sangha in Polonnaruwa launched a conspiracy. Their objective was to place Jayabahu, King Vijayabahu’s brother, on the throne. Thus, Jayabahu ascended the throne of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom.
Reign and War
King Jayabahu, upon ascending the throne, led his armies along with his brothers and invaded Ruhunu to capture his nephew, Vikramabahu. Jayabahu’s aim was to depose Vikramabahu and solidify his own position in Polonnaruwa.
Defeat and Loss of Kingship
However, Vikramabahu, who had inherited his father’s warlike qualities, confronted Jayabahu’s forces and defeated them. After this defeat, Vikramabahu captured Polonnaruwa and was crowned as the third king of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom. Thus, King Jayabahu I’s brief one-year reign came to an end.
Legacy
The reign of Jayabahu I is a notable example of the political instability and power struggles that emerged after the demise of King Maha Vijayabahu. Although his reign was short, it marks an important transitional period in Sri Lankan history.