1055 AD to 1110 AD

Reign of Vijayabahu

Vijayabahu I, also known as Vijayabahu the Great, was a pivotal figure in Sri Lankan history. Born into royalty around 1039, he grew up during a period of Chola occupation. Despite this, Vijayabahu rose to become king of the Ruhuna principality in the south by 1055.,His defining achievement was a long and successful campaign to liberate Sri Lanka from Chola rule. Over seventeen years, Vijayabahu's forces gradually chipped away at Chola control. Finally, in 1070, they triumphed, reunifying the island for the first time in over a century.,Following his victory, Vijayabahu established Polonnaruwa as the new capital. This city offered a more strategic location for defense against future South Indian invasions. He also focused on reviving Buddhism, which had suffered under Chola rule, and repairing the infrastructure damaged by war. Vijayabahu's reign marked a turning point for Sri Lanka, ushering in a new era of independence and restoration.

The Chola occupation of Sri Lanka lasted for over seven decades, a dark period for the Sinhalese monarchy. But in the southern stronghold of Ruhuna, a young prince named Kitti (later Vijayabahu I) was preparing to take back his country. His reign (1055–1110 AD) marks one of the greatest comebacks in Sri Lankan history.

The Prince of Ruhuna

Vijayabahu ascended the throne of Ruhuna at a young age, inheriting a fractured kingdom surrounded by enemies. He spent years consolidating his power, defeating rival chieftains, and building an army capable of challenging the mighty Chola Empire. His patience and strategic brilliance earned him the loyalty of the southern people.

The Liberation of Lanka

In 1070 AD, Vijayabahu launched a three-pronged attack on the Chola strongholds. After a grueling campaign, his forces captured Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, driving the invaders out of the island. For the first time in 77 years, Sri Lanka was unified under a single Sinhalese monarch.

Rebuilding a Nation

Vijayabahu’s work didn’t end with the war. He moved the capital to Polonnaruwa, recognizing its strategic advantages. He restored the neglected irrigation tanks, revived the Buddhist Sangha by inviting monks from Burma to re-establish the ordination lineage, and ushered in a new era of prosperity and cultural revival.

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