Upatissa Nuwara Dynasty Reign: 454-437 BCE

King Tissa

King Tissa, who ruled Upatissa Nuwara from 454 to 437 BCE, was a valiant ruler who fought against his nephew, Prince Pandukabhaya, and died in battle. He perished on the battlefield along with his eight younger brothers.

Key Achievements

Acting as the ruler appointed by his eight younger brothers to govern Upatissa Nuwara after King Abhaya was dethroned.
Leading battles to protect the kingdom against his nephew, Prince Pandukabhaya.
Expressing the ambition to defeat Pandukabhaya before ascending the throne.

King Tissa: The Ruler of Upatissa Nuwara

King Tissa is an important figure who ruled Upatissa Nuwara in the 5th century BCE. His reign lasted from 454 BCE to 437 BCE. He is primarily remembered in history due to the power struggle with his nephew, Prince Pandukabhaya.

Ascension to the Throne

After King Abhaya, Prince Tissa’s elder brother, was dethroned, Prince Tissa and his eight younger brothers took over the administration of the kingdom. Prince Tissa was appointed as the ruler of Upatissa Nuwara with the approval of his younger brothers. However, he declared that he would not be consecrated as king until his nephew, Prince Pandukabhaya, was completely defeated.

Conflict with Prince Pandukabhaya

Throughout King Tissa’s reign, there was a severe threat from Prince Pandukabhaya. Prince Pandukabhaya claimed the throne and continuously waged war against King Tissa and his brothers. King Tissa made strenuous efforts to protect his kingdom and solidify his rule, leading battles against Prince Pandukabhaya.

The End

However, King Tissa’s efforts were unsuccessful. Prince Pandukabhaya emerged victorious from the battles, advancing triumphantly against King Tissa. Ultimately, King Tissa and all eight of his younger brothers were killed in battle. The life of the elder brother, King Abhaya, was spared, and after Prince Pandukabhaya’s undisputed victory, he asked King Abhaya to reassume the throne, but King Abhaya refused the request.

Legacy

King Tissa’s reign marks a transitional period in Sri Lankan history. With his defeat, Prince Pandukabhaya consolidated his power and later laid the foundation of the Anuradhapura Kingdom. The story of King Tissa provides important evidence of the power struggles and battles for the throne that characterized the early Sri Lankan kingdoms.