King Wimaladharmasuriya II

Introduction

After King Rajasinghe II, his son, Prince Wimaladharmasuriya II, ascended the throne of the Kandyan Kingdom. Ascending the throne around AD 1687, he became known as a peaceful ruler. Although not as skilled as his father, he prioritized maintaining peace during his reign.

Reign and Kingship

King Wimaladharmasuriya II maintained peaceful relations with the Dutch. He worked to protect the territories acquired by his father. However, due to his peaceful nature and not being as adept a ruler as his father, Kandyan aristocratic chiefs were able to increase their power during his reign. A Dutch envoy named Kalen Albas came to meet the King to negotiate a new treaty with him. During his rule, efforts were made to cooperate peacefully with the Dutch.

Religious and Cultural Contributions

During his reign, significant contributions were made primarily to the religious and cultural spheres.

• Bringing Upasampada: King Wimaladharmasuriya II worked to bring Upasampada (higher ordination) from Burma to Sri Lanka. The Dutch also assisted in this endeavor.
• Renovation of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: The renovation of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic also took place during his reign.

Conclusion

King Wimaladharmasuriya II passed away in AD 1707. With his demise, the rule of the Kandyan Kingdom continued.