This article is part of a continuing series on the 'Mahavamsa,' the recorded chronicle of Sri Lankan history

Prince Parakramabahu flees

By Halaliye Karunathilake
Edited and translated by Kamala Silva
Illustrated by Saman Kalubowila

1. As a result of the rulers of the country fighting against each other, much loss and destruction was caused to life and property. "All those who were engaged in fighting were my kith and kin. By now, they have all died. Now the only one surviving is my uncle Kitsirimegha. He is very old and feeble." So thought Prince Parakramabahu. He got up from his seat, walked about in deep thought and got back to his seat again.

2. The prince was immersed in thought once more. "How short is the life-span of men? It can be counted even in days. Even the most powerful succumb to death. They are then either buried or cremated. That will be my fate as well. Before that happens, I must serve my country in some way. I must use the education I have received for the benefit of the country. Yes, I must somehow unite this country."

3. He thought he should make a survey of all the little kingdoms to which the country was divided. He met the commanders who were in his favour and told them about this intention. They agreed to support the prince. "If so, we should leave this place. Do not leave any room for my uncle (step-father) to know about this," said the prince. When the commanders asked him, why he was keeping his step-father in the dark, regarding this matter, he said that it was because he would not allow him to leave.

4. The commanders were keen to know why he would object to such a plan. Then the prince said, "It is surprising to note why you do not know the reason. If I were to fight, I have to fight against my own relations. He is so fond of them. He is a person who is more worried about the generation, than the country. Furthermore, we have to fight – first of all against his pupil."

5. "So let us go un-announced and un-noticed. You can go to Piliwatta first. I will leave in the night." Prince Parakramabahu disguised himself and when darkness fell, he left the palace.

He first went to Badulla and from there to Piliwatta. He was shocked to notice just a few people there. Of the commanders who promised the previous day, just a few had come to Piliwatta.

6. When the prince asked why the others were not there, their reply was, "O Prince, who is the person who is not scared of death? You are still young and you have not amassed any wealth. You are only armed for the occasion. There are no village leaders to support you. That is why the other commanders dodged. The few of us who came here, did so, only through affection for you. Not that we do not know the risk we are taking."

7. "Moreover Prince, it is in a dangerous place that we are staying now. This place comes within the limits of Mahaveera Sanka's domain. He is a very powerful warrior, who has displayed his skill in battle, on several occasions. It will not be an easy task to fight him." As they said these words, they heard the chirping of the birds. They knew the day was dawning. They then added, "Your step-father's army is on the look-out for us. We have to take great care."

8. Prince Parakramabahu could only laugh at these words. "You are a pack of cowards," he said. "I have been foolish enough, to think that you were brave warriors. I have made a big mistake in associating with you." Then he addressed the commanders thus, "Commanders, if you are frightened, you can stay back. I have a weapon with me. As long as I am armed, I am not scared of anyone."