The Seethawaka Kings, Mayadunne and Rajasinghe, fought fiercely against foreign occupation (by the Portuguese) and in doing so restored the pride and dignity of the demoralized Sinhalese people
Posted on November 13th, 2025
Source: AI Overview
AI Overview response
The statement that the Seethawaka Kings, Mayadunne and his son Rajasinghe I, fought fiercely against the Portuguese occupation and in doing so restored the pride and dignity of the Sinhalese people, is largely accurate from a historical perspective on their resistance efforts. Their military resistance was a significant source of national pride and a powerful symbol of defiance against foreign encroachment.
Here’s a breakdown of their impact:
- Fierce Resistance: Mayadunne established the Kingdom of Sitawaka after the division of the Kotte Kingdom and became a formidable military power, offering fierce resistance to the Portuguese who were gaining influence in Kotte. His son, Tikiri Bandara (later King Rajasinghe I), was an exceptional warrior who, fighting alongside his father, dealt a crushing blow to the Portuguese in the Battle of Mulleriyawa in 1559, a major victory that severely weakened Portuguese control of the surrounding areas.
- Symbol of Patriotism: Rajasinghe I, known as the “Lion of Sitawaka,” is remembered for his patriotism and continued fight against the Portuguese invasion, even briefly unifying much of the island under Blue – blooded Sinhala rule after conquering the Kingdom of Kandy in 1582. Their actions stood in stark contrast to the puppet rulers installed by the Portuguese in the Kotte Kingdom, such as King Dharmapala, who converted to Christianity, betraying Buddhism ( the religion of the Sinhala people) and became a vassal of the Portuguese King.
- Restoration of Morale: The Kings of Sitawaka were seen as champions of the Sinhalese cause, fighting to preserve their independence and culture against the colonial power. Their military successes and unwavering opposition to foreign rule would have certainly served to boost the morale and dignity of the local population who were facing foreign occupation and cultural erosion. Many chieftains and their followers deserted the Portuguese-controlled Kotte and joined Mayadunne’s cause, indicating a strong desire to resist foreign domination.
While they were ultimately unable to expel the Portuguese from the island entirely, their legacy endures as a symbol of brave and significant resistance in the face of colonial expansion, contributing to the historical narrative of Sinhalese pride and defiance.
Source: AI Overview