Introduction
King Parakramabahu VII of Kotte was an important ruler who ascended to the throne of the Kotte Kingdom. He was the son of King Bhuvanekabahu VI and reigned for a short period from 1480 to 1484 CE. His reign ended tragically with his assassination.
Early Life and Accession to the Throne
Prince Parakramabahu VII was born as the son of King Bhuvanekabahu VI. Following his father’s demise, he ascended to the Kotte throne in the historical year 1480 CE. This accession ensured the continued rule of the Kotte Kingdom.
Reign
King Parakramabahu VII’s reign began in 1480 CE and concluded in 1484 CE. This was a short period of approximately four years. Although extensive details about his rule are not found in sources, it is believed that he managed the administrative affairs of the Kotte Kingdom.
End
King Parakramabahu VII’s reign ended with Prince Ambuḷugala arriving in Kotte and assassinating him. Following this event, Prince Ambuḷugala became King of Kotte under the name Weerawickrama Parakramabahu VIII. There are varying opinions regarding the year of this assassination. Textbooks mention the year as 1490 CE, while the scholar Indrakeerthi Siriweera’s book “Rajata Civilisation and South-Western Kingdoms” states it as 1484 CE. However, it is clear that his reign ended with an assassination.
Legacy
Despite a short reign and a tragic end, King Parakramabahu VII is recorded in history as a successor to the Kotte Kingdom’s rule. His demise led to the emergence of another new ruler in the Kotte Kingdom.