Introduction
King Subha was a ruler of the Anuradhapura Kingdom in Sri Lanka, who ascended to the throne in an unusual and cunning manner. He was previously the gatekeeper to King Yasalalaka Tissa. Capitalizing on the king’s fondness for humor, the gatekeeper Subha ended the king’s life and claimed the throne for himself.
Early Life and Accession to the Throne
Subha served as a loyal gatekeeper to King Yasalalaka Tissa. King Yasalalaka Tissa was a ruler who was very fond of humorous activities. One day, the king, who resembled his gatekeeper Subha, ordered Subha to impersonate him as king, while he himself disguised himself as a gatekeeper.
Once the royal court began, it was the gatekeeper Subha who sat on the throne. King Yasalalaka Tissa, disguised as a gatekeeper, arrived at the royal court to enact his prank and surprise the ministers. However, the gatekeeper Subha, who was on the throne, ordered King Yasalalaka Tissa to be taken outside and executed. Through this cunning act, King Subha killed King Yasalalaka Tissa and seized the throne.
Reign
Subha, who ascended the throne around 109 BCE, ruled the Anuradhapura Kingdom for about 6 years until 103 BCE. While not much detailed information is available about his reign, it is clear that he consolidated power through his cunning schemes.
Legacy
The story of King Subha is an excellent example of political intrigue and strategies for gaining power in the history of Sri Lanka. He is remembered in history as a ruler who, despite not belonging to a royal lineage, ascended to the throne by utilizing his intelligence and opportunistic nature.