Introduction
King Bhuvanekabahu III ascended the throne of the Sinhala Kingdom in 1325 or 1326 CE. Also known as “Vanni Bhuvanekabahu,” this king was not connected to any past royal lineage, and it is noteworthy that he began his life as a Vanni chieftain. During his reign, he chose Kurunegala as his capital and governed from there.
Early Life and Accession to the Throne
Details about the early life of King Bhuvanekabahu III are scarce. However, it is stated that he began his life as a Vanni chieftain. Due to this non-royal background, he was referred to by the epithet “Vanni Bhuvanekabahu.” Without any connection to a past royal lineage, he became the ruler of the Sinhala Kingdom in 1325 or 1326 CE.
Reign
King Bhuvanekabahu III chose Kurunegala as his capital and governed from there. Although there is not much further information regarding his reign, it is stated that King Vijayabahu V ascended the throne after him in 1325 or 1326 CE. This may indicate that his reign was very brief.
Significance and Legacy
The significance of King Bhuvanekabahu III lies in his accession to kingship as a Vanni chieftain, without belonging to a traditional royal lineage. This sheds light on the diverse aspects of the process of ascending to kingship in Sri Lankan history. His rule, though brief, with Kurunegala as its capital, marks a unique chapter in the history of the Sinhala Kingdom.