Kingdom of Polonnaruwa: Map & History

History

A partial consolidation of Chola power in Rajarata had succeeded the initial season of plunder. With the intention to transform Chola encampments into more permanent military enclaves, Saivite temples were constructed in Polonnaruwa and in the emporium of Mahatittha. Taxation was also instituted, especially on merchants and artisans by the Cholas. In 1014 Rajaraja I died and was succeeded by his son Rajendra Chola I, perhaps the most aggressive king of his line. Chola raids were launched southward from Rajarata into Rohana. By his fifth year, Rajendra claimed to have completely conquered the island. Thus, the whole of Anuradhapura including the south-eastern province of Rohana were incorporated into the Chola Empire.

Military (1153–1186)

Parākramabāhu I structured the kingdom's armed forces, supplemented by auxiliary units primarily drawn from other Buddhist ethnic communities.

Under Parākramabāhu I, the ground forces of Polonnaruwa were organized into several branches. The Culavamsa suggests that their strength may have reached as many as 100,000 troops during the 1140s, prior to the first battle of Rajarata. While the army's size during the Pandyan War is not recorded, it was likely substantial as well.” The ground forces were divided between the main army, commanded by Lankapura Dandanatha, and the auxiliary units, which were composed largely of minority groups.