Introduction
King Yasalalaka Tissa, belonging to the Anuradhapura era of Sri Lankan history, ascended the throne in 47 CE (590 BE). During a short reign of seven and a half years, ruling with Anuradhapura as his capital, he tragically lost his life in a conspiracy orchestrated by his gatekeeper, Subha. Although historical sources, including the Mahavamsa, do not mention much about his reign, his end is recorded as a very dramatic event.
Ascension to the Throne
King Yasalalaka Tissa ascended the throne of the Anuradhapura Kingdom in 590 BE (47 CE). There is no clear information in the Mahavamsa regarding how he ascended the throne. However, some commentators speculate that he came to power after the assassination of King Chandramukha Siva.
The Reign of King Yasalalaka Tissa
The king ruled Sri Lanka for seven and a half years with Anuradhapura as his capital. It appears that his reign was not rich in notable events regarding peace or development. However, the incident that led to his demise makes it clear that he was a king fond of amusement and sport.
The Jest with Subha and the Tragic End
The most famous and tragic event during the reign of King Yasalalaka Tissa was the jest he performed with his gatekeeper, Subha. The king dressed Subha, a gatekeeper who resembled him, in royal ornaments and seated him on the throne, while he himself disguised as a gatekeeper. When ministers arrived and bowed to Subha, thinking he was the king, the king laughed. Seizing this opportunity, the cunning Subha ordered, “Since this gatekeeper is contemptuously laughing at me, behead him,” and had the king killed.
The Real Background Behind the Assassination
Historians point out that although this began merely as a jest, a serious conspiracy in the royal court might have been at play behind the assassination of King Yasalalaka Tissa. It should be noted that there were individuals in the royal court who encouraged Subha to seize power, and no one opposed Subha’s actions. Furthermore, commentators indicate that this incident occurred at a time when the people were disillusioned with Yasalalaka Tissa regarding the killing of King Chandramukha Siva, and this was another reason for his assassination. Although referred to as a gatekeeper, Subha might have been a powerful individual holding an important position in the royal court.
Legacy
King Yasalalaka Tissa’s reign is recorded as one of the shortest and most tragically ended reigns in Sri Lankan history. His life provides an example of how an excessive fondness for amusement and a disregard for royal responsibilities could lead to the demise of even a powerful state leader. His story leaves a powerful memory of how internal power struggles in the royal court and popular displeasure against rulers can lead to severe consequences.