King Manabharana - Ruler of Dakkhina Desa and Ruhuna
King Manabharana was a prominent ruler who lived in Sri Lanka during the Polonnaruwa era in the 12th century CE. He is renowned as a powerful king who established independent rule in Dakkhina Desa (Southern Province) and exerted influence over Ruhuna Desa. His most significant mark in history is being the father of King Parakramabahu the Great, who unified Sri Lanka.
Early Life and Ascent to Power
King Manabharana was a prince of the VijayaBahu dynasty and the son of Prince Kirti Sri Megha. After being appointed as a regional ruler in Dakkhina Desa, he managed to consolidate his power during a fragmented period in Sri Lanka. During this time, internal conflicts prevailed between King Gajabahu of Polonnaruwa and several princes in Ruhuna. King Manabharana chose Dakkhina Desa, located southwest of Polonnaruwa, as his political center and strengthened his authority there.
Reign and Administration
King Manabharana’s reign was marked by the maintenance of Dakkhina Desa as an independent state. He was a politically astute ruler who built up internal strength and successfully engaged with surrounding regions. He also intervened in the struggles for control in Ruhuna, extending his influence throughout Ruhuna Desa. The king further strengthened his political power through various marital alliances. During his reign, attention was also paid to the development of trade, agriculture, and public infrastructure.
Key Achievements
During his reign, King Manabharana achieved the following key accomplishments:
- Independence of Dakkhina Desa: During a period when central rule in Polonnaruwa was weakening, he established Dakkhina Desa as a strong, independent state. Through this, he controlled a politically significant region.
- Influence over Ruhuna Desa: By intervening in the internal conflicts of Ruhuna, he exerted significant influence over its rule, demonstrating his regional dominance.
- Father of King Parakramabahu: As the father of King Parakramabahu the Great, who would eventually unify all of Lanka, his political legacy was immense. He succeeded in building a strong foundation for his son.
- Powerful Figure in the Polonnaruwa Era: He entered history as a powerful figure who, during a period of fragmented rule in Sri Lankan history, established his own authority and significantly influenced the political landscape.
Legacy
After the demise of King Manabharana, the rule of Dakkhina Desa passed to his son, Prince Parakramabahu. The strong foundation built by King Manabharana was a great support for King Parakramabahu the Great in successfully achieving his goal of unifying Lanka. He is considered an important figure who, during a transitional period in Sri Lankan history, paved the way for the unification of the state. His political wisdom and strong rule had a decisive impact on the later history of Sri Lanka.