King Sotthisena was a monarch who ruled the Anuradhapura Kingdom in the 5th century. He is renowned as the king with the shortest reign in the history of Lanka. His reign lasted less than a day, as he was assassinated in a palace coup on the very day he ascended the throne.
Early Life and Ascension to the Throne
Prince Sotthisena was born to King Mahanama and his Tamil queen, Princess Sengoth. Around 434 CE, he succeeded his father, King Mahanama, to the throne of Anuradhapura.
Brief Reign and Assassination
According to the great historical chronicles of Sri Lanka, King Sotthisena ascended the throne in the morning. However, he was assassinated in a palace coup that very evening. It is said that this coup was orchestrated by Princess Sangha, the daughter of King Mahanama. After his death, Chattagahaka Janthu, the husband of his step-sister, ascended the throne.
Historical Significance
King Sotthisena’s extremely brief reign provides clear evidence of the political instability and power struggles that prevailed during the Anuradhapura period. He is forever etched in history as the king who ruled for the shortest period in the chronicles of Lanka.