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The Decline of Polonnaruwa and the Rise of Raigama (1361 CE)
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In the year 1361 CE, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, once the thriving capital of the Sinhalese kingdom in Sri Lanka, faced a significant decline, leading to its eventual replacement by Raigama as a center of power. This transition marked a pivotal moment in Sri Lankan history, reflecting the shifting political and economic dynamics of the island.
Polonnaruwa had served as the capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to the 13th century, flourishing under the reigns of great kings such as Parakramabahu I and Nissanka Malla. However, by the 14th century, the kingdom faced numerous challenges, including invasions from South India, internal strife, and the gradual abandonment of the city due to its vulnerability to attacks and the difficulty of defending its expansive territory. The once-great city fell into ruin, and the Sinhalese kingdom began to fragment into smaller regional powers.
By 1361 CE, the focus of power shifted to Raigama, a region located in the southwestern part of the island. Raigama emerged as a new political center under the leadership of King Vikramabahu III, who sought to consolidate his rule and protect the kingdom from external threats. The move to Raigama was strategic, as it was better positioned to resist invasions and maintain control over the fertile lowlands and coastal trade routes.
The transition from Polonnaruwa to Raigama also reflected broader changes in Sri Lankan society. The abandonment of Polonnaruwa symbolized the end of an era of grand irrigation projects and monumental architecture, while the rise of Raigama signaled a shift toward smaller, more decentralized kingdoms. This period also saw the increasing influence of South Indian powers and the gradual decline of the Sinhalese monarchy's centralized authority.
While the exact details of the events surrounding the supplanting of Polonnaruwa by Raigama in 1361 CE are not extensively documented, this transition remains a significant chapter in Sri Lankan history. It highlights the resilience of the Sinhalese people in adapting to changing circumstances and the enduring legacy of their civilization despite the challenges of foreign invasions and internal fragmentation.
Note: If you require more specific details or sources, I recommend consulting specialized texts on Sri Lankan history, as the available historical records from this period can be limited or fragmented.